Netflix is gearing up for another blockbuster year in 2026, building on the momentum of a successful 2025. Last year, the streaming giant saw unprecedented success with KPop Demon Slayers, which became the most-watched Netflix movie of all time, surpassing Red Notice. Meanwhile, the television landscape was reshaped with the conclusion of Stranger Things and the critical acclaim of Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein. As Netflix looks to maintain its dominance, the 2026 release schedule promises a mix of returning favorites and new content poised to capture global audiences.
Returning Favorites and Anticipated Finales
The 2026 lineup includes the return of beloved series and the conclusion of iconic narratives. Fans are eagerly awaiting the second season of 3 Body Problem and the continuation of Avatar: The Last Airbender. However, the most anticipated return is The Witcher, with Liam Hemsworth taking on the role of Geralt of Rivia for the series’ grand finale. This conclusion is expected to draw millions of viewers as Geralt embarks on his final journey across the Continent.
Little Brother
Among the new releases, Little Brother stands out as a high-profile comedy directed by Matt Spicer. Featuring John Cena and Eric André, the film explores the comedic chaos that ensues when a disciplined real estate agent’s life is disrupted by his eccentric younger brother. With producers Ruben Fleischer and David Bernad, known for their work on The White Lotus, the film targets a broad audience with its blend of sibling rivalry and character-driven humor.
Swapped
In the realm of animation, Swapped by Skydance Animation is set to be a major hit. Directed by Nathan Greno, known for Tangled, this family-friendly film features a classic body-swap premise with Michael B. Jordan and Juno Temple voicing the leads. The comedic talents of Tracy Morgan and Cedric the Entertainer add to the film’s appeal, positioning it as a key viewership driver for families.
Adapting Literary Classics and Expanding Universes
Netflix continues to capitalize on the popularity of literary adaptations and expanded universes. Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials brings a modern twist to the classic mystery genre, with Chris Chibnall at the helm. The series features a stellar cast, including Martin Freeman and Helena Bonham Carter, and is expected to maintain high viewership following the success of recent mystery hits.
Emily in Paris (Season 6)
The romantic escapades of Emily Cooper continue to captivate audiences, with Emily in Paris confirmed for a sixth season. The series, which has consistently topped charts, is set to explore new European locales, promising to retain its position as a critical asset for subscriber retention.
Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man
Netflix is also set to release Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man, a feature-length film that concludes the Shelby family saga. With Cillian Murphy reprising his iconic role, the film is anticipated to be a cultural event, bolstered by a cast that includes Rebecca Ferguson and Barry Keoghan.
New Installments and Major Productions
As Netflix expands its offerings, new installments in popular franchises and ambitious productions are poised to dominate the platform. Enola Holmes 3 sees Millie Bobby Brown return as the titular detective, with the action moving to Malta. Director Philip Barantini promises to maintain the series’ charm and energetic pacing.
Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story
The true-crime anthology Monster returns with The Lizzie Borden Story, featuring Ella Beatty and Charlie Hunnam. This season focuses on the infamous case of Lizzie Borden, promising to replicate the viral engagement of previous entries.
Bridgerton (Season 4)
The romantic drama Bridgerton shifts its focus to Benedict Bridgerton in its fourth season. With a visually spectacular narrative and new characters, the series is expected to continue its success as a top contender for Netflix’s biggest television hit of the year.
Expanding the Stranger Things Universe and Launching Narnia
The Stranger Things universe expands with the animated anthology Tales From ’85. Set in 1985, this series captures the nostalgic energy of classic cartoons while exploring new paranormal mysteries. Despite the absence of the original cast, the series aims to satisfy the demand for more stories from Hawkins.
Narnia
Perhaps the most ambitious project of 2026 is the launch of the Narnia film series, directed by Greta Gerwig. Starting with The Magician’s Nephew, the film features a star-studded cast and is positioned as a defining franchise for Netflix. With a theatrical IMAX release and a global streaming debut, Narnia is set to be the biggest Netflix hit of the year.
As Netflix continues to innovate and expand its content offerings, 2026 promises to be a landmark year for the platform, with a diverse slate of releases that cater to a wide range of audiences. From returning favorites to new cinematic endeavors, Netflix is poised to maintain its position as a leader in the streaming industry.
