17 Must-Watch TV Shows Set to Premiere in 2026

The television landscape in 2026 is poised to welcome an exciting array of new series, showcasing fresh talent and beloved stories. Among the most anticipated are seventeen shows that promise to captivate audiences with their diverse narratives and star-studded casts. From thrilling adaptations of classic literature to light-hearted comedies, there is something for everyone.

Exciting New Dramas and Thrillers

One of the standout productions is **”Ponies,”** a 1970s spy thriller featuring **Emilia Clarke** and **Haley Lu Richardson**. They portray two widows turned CIA agents seeking to uncover the conspiracy behind their husbands’ mysterious deaths. Set to premiere on **January 15** on **Peacock**, this series is expected to blend suspense with emotional depth.

Another gripping entry is **”Carrie,”** adapted from **Stephen King’s** iconic novel by acclaimed director **Mike Flanagan**. The series follows high school outsider **Carrie White**, who discovers her supernatural powers amid relentless bullying. While the premiere date remains **TBD in 2026**, expectations are high given Flanagan’s reputation for adapting horror effectively.

Additionally, **”Memory of a Killer”** marks the return of **Patrick Dempsey** to network television. This crime drama follows a photocopier salesperson who leads a dangerous double life as a hitman while battling Alzheimer’s disease. Scheduled to air weekly starting **January 25** on **Fox**, it promises a compelling mix of tension and human emotion.

Comedies and Unique Concepts

Comedy fans can rejoice with the return of the beloved series **”Scrubs.”** This revival features original cast members such as **Zach Braff** and **Donald Faison**, reuniting at Sacred Heart Hospital. The series will premiere weekly starting **February 25** on **ABC**, before becoming available on **Hulu** the following day.

Also noteworthy is the **Legally Blonde** prequel series titled **”Elle,”** which focuses on **Elle Woods** during her high school years. Premiering on **July 1** on **Prime Video**, the series has already been renewed for a second season, highlighting its potential appeal.

In a unique twist, **”Something Very Bad Is Going to Happen”** follows a couple’s journey to their wedding day, interrupted by unforeseen complications. Created by the **Duffer Brothers**, known for their work on “Stranger Things,” this series is set to premiere on **March 26** on **Netflix**.

The series **”Margot’s Got Money Troubles,”** based on **Rufi Thorpe’s** novel, follows a college dropout who becomes pregnant and starts an OnlyFans page, unexpectedly rising to fame. This show, featuring **Elle Fanning** and **Michelle Pfeiffer**, will debut weekly starting **April 15** on **Apple TV**.

With a rich mix of genres, 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for television. These new series not only promise entertainment but also showcase a remarkable range of talent, ensuring that audiences will have plenty of options to explore as the year progresses.