Top TV Shows of 2026: Murder Mysteries, Comedies, and Horror Tales to Binge-Watch
Looking for some great movies to watch this year? Well, you might have to wait a bit longer. While there have been some good ones like "Obsession," "Hokum," "Project Hail Mary," and "The Sheep Detectives," none of them have reached the level of being truly exceptional. On the other hand, television has been a different story in 2026, with some fantastic new series and a few that come close to greatness. So, here's a list of the best new TV shows I've seen so far this year, with the understanding that there's still plenty more to come.
First up is a murder mystery with a twist, involving kinky sex, betrayal, and male loneliness. Jason Bateman plays a skeevy TV weatherman, David Harbour is his American Sign Language interpreter, and Linda Cardellini plays Harbour's wife. When a dating site leads to unexpected consequences, the story takes some bizarre turns. The standout performance here is from Harbour, but the entire cast shines in this dark and twisted tale. You can catch this series on HBO Max.
Next, we have a light-hearted and rewatchable show starring Steve Carell as a famous author who takes a job at a college to keep an eye on his daughter. The series follows the quirky relationships that develop among the characters, offering a low-stakes yet entertaining watch. With a touch of drama and plenty of heart, this show is a comfort watch that only gets better with each viewing. You can stream this show on HBO Max.
If horror is more your speed, "The Scary House" delivers on its title with a chilling story set in a creepy mansion in the snowy woods. Camila Morrone and Adam DiMarco lead the cast as a couple visiting Nicky's family, where things take a dark and twisted turn. With unexpected twists and a healthy dose of crazy, this series keeps you on the edge of your seat. You can watch this spooky show on Netflix.
Tatiana Maslany shines in her role as Paula, a fact-checker navigating a complicated life after her separation from her husband. As she grapples with loneliness and unexpected challenges, Maslany delivers a performance that is both funny and heartbreaking. Her character's journey is captivating, and the series keeps you guessing until the very end. You can catch this emotional rollercoaster on Apple TV.
Finally, the standout show of the year is a thrilling and darkly comedic series starring Matthew Rhys as a mayor trying to save his cursed island. With a mix of overarching storylines and monster-of-the-week episodes, the show keeps you engaged and entertained. The supporting cast is top-notch, but Kate O'Flynn steals the show with her performance as the mayor's assistant. Her portrayal is both terrifying and hilarious, making her a standout in a stellar ensemble. You can stream this must-watch series on Apple TV.
In conclusion, while movies may be lacking in greatness this year, television has more than made up for it with a slew of fantastic new shows. From murder mysteries to horror tales to emotional dramas, there's something for everyone to enjoy on the small screen. So, grab your popcorn and settle in for a binge-watching session with these top TV picks of 2026.