Streaming giant Netflix has unveiled its plans for the coming years, confirming a host of major show renewals for 2026 while revealing that some highly anticipated new seasons won't arrive until 2027 or later. The announcement has provided clarity for subscribers but also sparked significant frustration over the extended production timelines now commonplace in the industry.
The Major Comedies and Dramas Confirmed for Return
Leading the pack of returning shows is the soapy drama The Hunting Wives, which became a breakout sensation for Netflix last year. Starring Malin Akerman and Brittany Snow, the series soared to become the most-watched show in the US following its July premiere.
They are joined by a robust line-up of other popular titles. Fans can look forward to new seasons of the adventure series Outer Banks, Guy Ritchie's The Gentlemen, and the spy thriller Black Doves. The acclaimed French heist drama Lupin is also set for a fourth season.
In the realm of romance and comedy, third seasons of the rom-com Nobody Wants This with Adam Brody and Kristen Bell are confirmed, alongside new chapters for Virgin River, Emily in Paris, and Sweet Magnolias. These join previously announced renewals like Bridgerton, The Lincoln Lawyer, and The Night Agent.
High-Profile Final Seasons and Cast Changes
One of the most significant returns will be the fourth and final season of The Witcher. This new season marks a major shift, as Liam Hemsworth takes over the lead role of Geralt of Rivia from Henry Cavill, who departed the series in 2022.
The reality TV arena also sees a key player return. The behind-the-scenes wrestling series WWE: Unreal is coming back for a second season, promising appearances from superstars like Rhea Ripley, Becky Lynch, and Cody Rhodes, as well as musician Jelly Roll.
Furthermore, audiences can expect second instalments of several recent hits, including the live-action Avatar: The Last Airbender, the sci-fi epic 3 Body Problem, and the acclaimed dramedy Beef.
Notable Omissions and Growing Fan Frustration
However, the announcement also highlighted several conspicuous absences. Most notably missing was Wednesday, the record-breaking series led by Jenna Ortega, which is Netflix's biggest English-language show ever. With a three-year gap already between its first and second seasons, fans now fear a similarly long wait for a confirmed third season.
Also absent from the 2026 renewal list were popular titles like Ginny & Georgia, the western drama Ransom Canyon, and Eric Bana's crime series Untamed.
These lengthy gaps have become a major point of contention for subscribers. On social media, viewers have been vocal about their dissatisfaction. One commented, 'These two year ––sometimes longer–– gaps between TV shows is ridiculous,' while another stated, 'Why does it take so damn long for new TV seasons to come out nowadays? It's BS.'
Netflix's strategy appears to prioritise quality and scheduling logistics, but it clearly tests the patience of its audience. As the streaming landscape grows ever more competitive, balancing production values with viewer expectations remains a key challenge.
