The first half of 2026 has delivered an exceptional array of television, from gripping period dramas to scandalous affairs and unhinged reality shows. Streaming platforms and terrestrial broadcasters alike have offered binge-worthy content, setting a high bar for the rest of the year. Here are the ten best TV shows released so far in 2026, according to our critics.
10. Married At First Sight Australia (Season 13)
Possibly one of the most chaotic seasons yet, Married At First Sight Australia returned with its trademark drama. Season 13 featured meltdowns, explosive Couple's Retreat fights, a mid-ceremony walkout, and one husband still communicating with his ex-girlfriend. The result was a recipe for disaster for many pairings, but made for compelling viewing. The show aired on E4 and kept audiences hooked with its unscripted turmoil.
9. Children of the Blitz
This BBC documentary features some of the last living witnesses of the Blitz, offering touching testimony of wartime Britain through children's eyes. The 90-minute film recalls Operation Pied Piper, the British government's plan to evacuate millions of children before the Second World War. Ultimately, only 800,000 left vulnerable towns and cities. The documentary provides a raw yet candid insight into the trauma and resilience of those who survived, reminding viewers of their enduring spirit.
8. DTF St. Louis
For murder mystery fans, DTF St. Louis starring Jason Bateman (Ozark) is a must-watch. Created by Steven Conrad, the limited series has earned strong reviews. The official synopsis describes it as "a limited series about a love triangle between three adults experiencing middle-age malaise that leads to one of them ending up dead." It holds an 88% score on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its storytelling and performances. The show airs on HBO.
7. Rivals (Season Two)
The highly anticipated second season of Rivals returned this year, plunging viewers back into the fictional county of Rutshire. The eight-part series, based on Jilly Cooper's novel, is packed with sex, scandal, and 80s flair. The ensemble cast includes Lord Tony Baddingham (David Tennant), who goes head-to-head with rival TV station Venturer. He seeks revenge against journalist Declan O'Hara (Aiden Turner) and Conservative MP Rupert Campbell-Black (Alex Hassell). The show ends on a cliffhanger, with part two expected in November. It has earned a 97% score on Rotten Tomatoes and airs on Disney+.
6. House of the Dragon (Season 3)
House of the Dragon returned for its third season, continuing the Targaryen civil war. The premiere date and episode count were highly anticipated. The show remains a critical and commercial success, with fans eagerly awaiting each twist. The season delves deeper into the Dance of the Dragons, with stunning visuals and complex character dynamics. It airs on HBO and Max.
5. The Responder (Season 2)
Martin Freeman returns as crisis negotiator Chris Carson in the second season of The Responder. The BBC drama explores the pressures of frontline policing in Liverpool, with Carson facing new personal and professional challenges. The season has been praised for its gritty realism and Freeman's powerful performance. It continues to be a standout in British television.
4. The Crown (Season 6, Part 2)
The final episodes of The Crown concluded the epic saga of the British royal family. Part 2 covers the early 2000s, including the death of the Queen Mother and the early relationship of Prince William and Kate Middleton. The series maintains its hallmark production values and nuanced storytelling. It is available on Netflix.
3. Slow Horses (Season 4)
The Apple TV+ spy thriller returned with its fourth season, following the misfits of Slough House. Gary Oldman leads the cast as Jackson Lamb, with the team facing a new conspiracy. The season has been lauded for its sharp writing, dark humor, and tense action. It holds a 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes, cementing its place as one of the best current series.
2. Succession (Season 4)
Though it premiered in 2023, Succession season 4 continued to dominate in 2026 through syndication and streaming. The final season of the Roy family saga is widely considered a masterpiece, with its razor-sharp dialogue and power struggles. It remains a benchmark for prestige television.
1. The Sympathizer
Topping our list is The Sympathizer, a 'flawless masterpiece' according to critics. The HBO limited series, based on Viet Thanh Nguyen's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, stars Robert Downey Jr. in multiple roles. It follows a half-French, half-Vietnamese communist spy during the Vietnam War and his subsequent life in exile. The show has been praised for its bold storytelling, visual style, and performances. It has a 98% score on Rotten Tomatoes and is available on HBO Max.
