TV Lookahead for 2026 and Beyond
BBC News takes a dive into the exciting TV shows and events to look forward to in 2026 and beyond.
2026 Highlights:
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The Night Manager Series 2: Tom Hiddleston returns as Jonathan Pine in this adaptation of John Le Carré's novel, nine years after the first series. Co-starring Olivia Colman, it promises to delve deeper into the world of espionage.
- Release Date: 1 January on BBC One/BBC iPlayer
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Red Eye Series 2: Set in a high-security U.S. Embassy, Jing Lusi and Martin Compston star in this intense crime thriller. The series explores a deadly threat to a government plane carrying the head of MI5.
- Release Date: 1 January on ITV1/ITV Player
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Stranger Things Finale: The highly anticipated conclusion to the sci-fi series that began in 2016, streaming simultaneously worldwide. Prepare for a journey through alternate universes and psychic abilities.
- Release Date: 1 January on Netflix
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The Traitors: Returning for its fourth series on New Year's Day, this popular BBC entertainment show sees 22 contestants competing for a cash prize. Claudia Winkleman hosts this thrilling game of betrayal.
- Release Date: 1 January on BBC One/BBC iPlayer
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Seven Dials: A three-part adaptation of Agatha Christie's classic, starring Mia McKenna-Bruce as Lady Eileen "Bundle" Brent. Unravel a deadly plot after a prank goes horribly wrong at a country house party.
- Release Date: 15 January on Netflix
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A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The second Game of Thrones spin-off, set a century before the events of the original series. It follows the adventures of Ser Duncan the Tall and his squire, Egg.
- Release Date: 19 January on Sky Atlantic/NOW
Other Notable Mentions:
- Scrubs (Hulu): Although not a 2026 release, this classic comedy-drama is worth mentioning for its cult following.