Why Your Netflix Subscription is Worth Your Money in 2026
Ask anyone to name a streaming service, and they would likely say Netflix. It’s been the king of at-home entertainment for at least the past decade, and the platform is continually adding new, must-watch content every month.
But with so many streaming services out there now, people are understandably trimming their budget and being more selective about which platforms they subscribe to. If you’re reconsidering your loyalty to Netflix in 2026, though, it might not be a good idea to jump ship right now.
From established hits returning for new seasons to big names creating new shows and movies for Netflix this year, there’s so much to be excited about if you’re an existing or prospective customer. Here’s a look at the highlights for 2026.
Big Shows Are Getting New Seasons on Netflix In 2026
Netflix loves to keep rolling with a show once it’s a proven success, and there are so many beloved series coming back for more this year.
For those of you who yearn for nothing more than a cosy, romantic drama, you’ll be delighted to hear that Bridgerton returned for Season 4 on January 29, with a second part arriving on February 26. This latest instalment is all about Benedict Bridgerton, the second eldest sibling in the titular family, as he embarks on a quest to find the woman of his dreams, whom he meets at a masquerade ball.
There’s also Virgin River Season 7 if you want a more rural, Americanised vibe. If you like soap operas with wild twists and will-they-won’t-they journeys, this is the kind of show you have to binge before the new episodes land in March.
For something quirkier and intense, there’s Beef Season 2. The first season stars Ali Wong and Steven Yeun on a rollercoaster ride akin to a Safdie brothers movie, where chaos and conflict wait around every corner. The next season is coming in April and will star Oscar Isaac, Carey Mulligan, Charles Melton, and Cailee Spaeny. Now that’s star power!
Meanwhile, if you’re more of a sports fan and like to get behind the scenes, you’ll be buzzing about the return of Full Swing for Season 4. This year’s storylines will include Rory McIlroy’s epic win at The Masters, Europe’s monumental victory in the Ryder Cup on US soil, and more details on the ongoing rivalry between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf. That’s also set for release in April.
Two Exciting Adaptations Coming to Netflix This Year
It’s not just existing shows that we should look out for. There are also plenty of adaptations that have got us drooling with anticipation, but two stand out the most.
East of Eden adapts the classic John Steinbeck novel with a star-studded cast, including Florence Pugh, Christopher Abbott, and Mike Faist. It’s a period drama focusing on two families spanning multiple generations with themes of rivalry and redemption. If you’re a fan of Succession or Poldark, you’ll probably love this new version of East of Eden. There’s no set release date yet, but it’s expected this spring.
For something harder-hitting and action-packed, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II is starring in a remake of Man on Fire. It’ll be a TV show version of the Tony Scott movie from 2004, which starred Denzel Washington. No release date has been given yet, but if you like movies such as Sicario or John Wick, you had better keep an eye out for this one dropping.
Ricky Gervais & the Duffer Brothers’ New Netflix Shows
There’s original content flowing through Netflix’s slate for the year, too, and huge names attached to some very interesting-sounding projects.
Chances are you’re already pining to go back to Hawkins after the conclusion of Stranger Things. While we can’t offer you any good news regarding ‘Conformity Gate,’ we can confirm the Duffer brothers have a new show hitting Netflix this year. The Boroughs basically sounds like Stranger Things but with retirees rather than nerdy teenagers, with an extra-terrestrial threat descending on a stellar cast that includes Alfred Molina, Bill Pullman, and Geena Davis.
Alternatively, if you’re partial to the dark comedy of the legendary Ricky Gervais, you’ll be happy to hear that he’s got a new show on the way. Alley Cats is an animated, six-episode series about feral British cats living their wild life on the street. Expect some foul language, risky jokes, and quirky characters. Think After Life, but with cartoon animals, and you’re on the right lines.
Peaky Blinders & Narnia Lead Netflix’s Big Original Movies Slate in 2026
While I love a good TV show, they can be quite the undertaking at times. That’s why I often prefer to dive into a movie, and there are a couple of corkers coming to Netflix this year.
After six seasons and years of rumours, we’ll finally see Tommy Shelby and his family in a feature-length tale of crime and violence in Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man. Set against the backdrop of World War II, this story of clandestine missions and inner demons will see Cillian Murphy reprise his iconic role, and we can’t wait. The spinoff movie is out on March 20.
In complete contrast, Greta Gerwig’s reimagining of Narnia is sure to be a hit with anyone who enjoyed what she did with Barbie. The acclaimed director has managed to bag big names like Emma Mackey, Daniel Craig, Meryl Streep and Carey Mulligan for this fantasy epic, and we’re sure she will put a surprising spin on the classic story. The only downside is that you have to wait until Christmas Day for it to drop on Netflix.
With all this and more to look forward to, cancelling that Netflix subscription is not something I’ll be rushing to do this year. Consider all of the above, and make up your own mind.
