Here are seven upcoming series on Netflix (2026) you must watch, examined through different points like genre, global appeal, creative team, and what makes each stand out.
1. His & Hers
Genre / Hook: A mystery thriller, adapted from a popular novel by Alice Feeney.
Why it’s noteworthy: It’s led by top acting talent (Tessa Thompson) and puts a psychological twist into the classic “whose side are you on?” story.
Global appeal: Although it’s a U.S. production, Netflix gives it worldwide reach—so the intrigue, twists and character dynamics should translate across cultures.
What to watch for: When it arrives (January 8, 2026) it’s a limited series — meaning high stakes and compact storytelling.
Verdict: If you love plot-twisters, big performances and smart suspense, this is a strong choice.
2. Human Vapor
Genre / Hook: A science-fiction thriller co-produced between Japan and South Korea (via Toho Studios & South Korean partners).
Why it’s noteworthy: It’s the first collaboration between Toho and Netflix, and adapts a classic tokusatsu film into a modern series. The cross-cultural production already adds intrigue.
Global appeal: Sci-fi with special effects and action tends to travel well. Add in thriller elements and you get a show that could appeal worldwide.
What to watch for: Premiere in April 2026, eight episodes—expect tight pacing.
Verdict: Great pick if you’re into sci-fi, transformations, and a visual spectacle combined with dark themes.
3. Jo Nesbø’s Detective Hole
Genre / Hook: A Nordic-noir crime drama based on the bestselling novelist Jo Nesbø’s work about detective Harry Hole.
Why it’s noteworthy: Nordic crime is a rich vein — gritty, atmospheric, morally complex. This series seems set to invoke that, with an established property behind it.
Global appeal: The “Nordic noir” genre has international fans. With Netflix behind it, non-Scandinavian audiences can dive in.
What to watch for: Release scheduled in 2026; perfect for fans of crime with mood, atmosphere and character depth.
Verdict: For those who prefer slow-burn suspense, peeling back secrets and a dark, moody tone — this is one to add to the list.
4. Bridgerton (Season 4)
Genre / Hook: Romantic period drama, luxury setting, high society, and all the emotional stakes. According to Netflix sources, Season 4 is slated for early 2026.
Why it’s noteworthy: It’s already a major franchise for Netflix; we know production values will be high, the cast strong, and the storytelling broad appeal.
Global appeal: Romance + drama + lavish visuals = broad audience appeal across age groups and regions.
What to watch for: The thematic shift and cast changes will matter — when a show is this big, how they evolve it can make or break.
Verdict: If you haven’t yet joined the “Bridgerton” world, season 4 is a good entry point — or a reason to go back and binge the earlier seasons to catch up.
5. Wish Your Death
Genre / Hook: A Korean horror-thriller series where wishes come true — at a cost.
Why it’s noteworthy: Horror/thriller series from Korea have been resonating globally (because the themes are universal). The premise is intriguing: young people + technology/app + dark consequences.
Global appeal: Horror tends to cross boundaries; combining youth, suspense, app/tech themes = strong potential.
What to watch for: How the show balances supernatural/psychological horror with emotional stakes and character arcs.
Verdict: If you like to be creeped out, feel tension, and then reflect on the “what happens next” — this is one to mark.
6. Boyfriend on Demand
Genre / Hook: Korean romantic comedy-drama: A web-toon producer signs up for virtual/dating simulation and things get real.
Why it’s noteworthy: Lighter fare compared to the thrillers/crime above, but sometimes that’s what you need: a fun, feel-good series with emotional core.
Global appeal: Rom-coms do well globally, especially when they include a twist (here: virtual simulation → real emotion).
What to watch for: Chemistry between leads, how the virtual vs real romance plays out, how they handle emotional depth beyond the premium visuals.
Verdict: For a more uplifting, fun series, this is a strong contender.
7. Free Bert
Genre / Hook: Comedy series headlined by comedian Bert Kreischer (according to schedule for 2026). (What’s on Netflix)
Why it’s noteworthy: Netflix diversifying into more comedy-series content for 2026. If it follows Bert’s usual style—honest, humorous, sometimes wild—it could be great fun.
Global appeal: Comedy is harder to globalize (jokes, culture) but Netflix’s platform means it’ll get subtitles/dubbing and find its niche.
What to watch for: The tone—how much of Bert’s stand-up persona influences it, and how writers balance local (U.S.) humour with broader themes.
Verdict: A good lighter watch when you want something less intense, more humor-driven.
