20 Best TV Shows on Max 2026
Browse the best Max shows and movies, from Game of Thrones and The Wire to Abbott Elementary, Nathan for You, and more top picks.
If you’re deciding what to stream next, this Max lineup gives you a little of everything: sharp comedy, prestige drama, mystery, and big-canvas adventure. Start with must-watch picks like Game of Thrones, The Wire, True Detective, and The West Wing if you want acclaimed television with serious staying power. For something lighter, Abbott Elementary, Schitt’s Creek, Friends, and The Big Bang Theory bring easy laughs, while Nathan for You and The Rehearsal lean into oddball, idea-driven comedy. There’s also plenty for fans of genre storytelling, from House of the Dragon and Rick and Morty to Lanterns and The Pitt.
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01
Nathan for You
documentary · comedy
Self-proclaimed business expert, writer, director and comedian Nathan Fielder helps real small businesses turn a profit with marketing tactics that no ordinary consultant would dare to attempt. From driving foot traffic to an off-the-strip souvenir shop by using Hollywood flair and a Johnny Depp impersonator, to creating a rebate that can only be redeemed by climbing a mountain, to founding a coffee shop called "Dumb Starbucks,” Nathan has always gone to the limit to make his ideas come to life. With his unorthodox approach to problem solving, Nathan’s genuine efforts to do good often draw the real people he encounters into an experience far beyond what they signed up for.
Why watch: If you enjoy documentary-style comedy that builds around bold ideas, Nathan for You is a strong pick. Its premise is especially appealing if you like awkward, clever humor centered on real-world situations.
Directed by Nathan Fielder, Jason WolinerCast Nathan Fielder, Anthony Armentano, Kevin Carmony, Vicki Jo Costanzo, Amy GoddardParamount PlusMaxMore details on IMDb → -
02
War
drama · mystery & thriller
Two top London law firms clash over a shocking divorce case that rocks the legal world, with elite attorneys from Cathcarts and Taylor and Byrne battling for supremacy.
Why watch: If you like legal drama with a mystery edge, War may fit your taste. The story centers on rival law firms and a case that shakes up the legal world.
Directed by China Moo-Young, Ben Taylor, Lisa Mulcahy, Jennifer SheridanCast Dominic West, Archie Renaux, Phoebe Fox, James McArdle, Sienna MillerMaxMore details on IMDb → -
03
Lanterns
action & adventure · crime · drama · mystery & thriller · science-fiction
Two intergalactic cops, new recruit John Stewart and Lantern legend Hal Jordan, are drawn into a dark, Earth-based mystery as they investigate a murder in the American heartland.
Why watch: If you enjoy crime, science-fiction, and mystery in one story, Lanterns is worth a look. The setup pairs intergalactic cops with an Earth-based investigation, which should appeal to viewers who like genre blends.
Directed by James Hawes, Geeta Vasant Patel, Alik Sakharov, Stephen WilliamsCast Aaron Pierre, Kyle Chandler, Kelly Macdonald, Garret Dillahunt, Poorna JagannathanMaxMore details on IMDb → -
04
Abbott Elementary
Won 4 Emmys Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series (2022) · 37 nominations
comedy
In this workplace comedy, a group of dedicated, passionate teachers — and a slightly tone-deaf principal — are brought together in a Philadelphia public school where, despite the odds stacked against them, they are determined to help their students succeed in life. Though these incredible public servants may be outnumbered and underfunded, they love what they do — even if they don’t love the school district’s less-than-stellar attitude toward educating children.
Why watch: If you want a comedy set in a workplace with heart, Abbott Elementary is an easy choice. Its school setting and underdog premise should click with fans of ensemble sitcoms.
Directed by Randall Einhorn, Jennifer Celotta, Jaime Eliezer Karas, Matt Sohn, Claire ScanlonCast Quinta Brunson, Tyler James Williams, Janelle James, Lisa Ann Walter, Chris PerfettiHuluMaxMore details on IMDb → -
05
The Rehearsal
4 Emmy nominations Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series (2025)
documentary · comedy
With a construction crew, a legion of actors, and seemingly unlimited resources, Nathan Fielder allows ordinary people to prepare for life’s biggest moments by “rehearsing” them in carefully crafted simulations of his own design. When a single misstep could shatter your entire world, why leave life to chance?
Why watch: If you like comedy that experiments with unusual setups, The Rehearsal stands out. It’s a good fit for viewers who enjoy documentary-style concepts and social awkwardness.
Directed by Nathan FielderCast Nathan Fielder, Journey Baker, Anna Lamadrid, Thomas McNamara, Alexander LeissMaxMore details on IMDb →
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06
Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage
1 Emmy nomination
comedy
Georgie and Mandy raise their young family in Texas while navigating the challenges of adulthood, parenting, and marriage.
Why watch: If you prefer family-centered comedy, Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage may be a good match. Its focus on marriage, parenting, and adulthood gives it a relatable everyday angle.
Directed by Mark Cendrowski, Nikki LorreCast Montana Jordan, Emily Osment, Rachel Bay Jones, Will Sasso, Dougie BaldwinParamount PlusMaxMore details on IMDb → -
07
The Great Pottery Throw Down
game-show · reality-tv
Ten home potters from around the country head to Stoke-on-Trent, the home of pottery, in their quest to become Top Potter.
Why watch: If you enjoy competition shows and reality TV, The Great Pottery Throw Down is a solid pick. The pottery contest format should appeal to viewers who like hands-on creative challenges.
Directed by Mark Drake, Emma Reynolds, Tim Van Someren, Matthew Adams, Louise PirieCast Sharon Griffin, Laima LaurinaMaxMore details on IMDb → -
08
Youth
comedy · drama
A 50-year-old divorcee juggles dating life while taking care of her parents and adult son.
Why watch: If you like comedy-drama about relationships and family responsibility, Youth may be your style. Its premise suggests a mix of dating, caregiving, and midlife complications.
Directed by Jim O'Hanlon, Dawn ShadforthCast Sharon Horgan, Libby Mai, Scarlett Rayner, Rupert Friend, Sharlene WhyteMaxMore details on IMDb → -
09
The Pitt
Won 11 Emmys 2x Outstanding Drama Series · 38 nominations
drama
The staff of Pittsburgh's Trauma Medical Center work around the clock to save lives in an overcrowded and underfunded emergency department.
Why watch: If you want a drama about intense workplace pressure, The Pitt could be a strong choice. The emergency-department setting suggests a fast-moving series for fans of medical drama.
Directed by Damian Marcano, Amanda Marsalis, John Cameron, John Wells, Uta BriesewitzCast Noah Wyle, Patrick Ball, Katherine LaNasa, Fiona Dourif, Taylor DeardenMaxMore details on IMDb → -
10
Game of Thrones
Won 59 Emmys Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series (2011) · 161 nominations
action · adventure · drama · fantasy
Seven noble families fight for control of the mythical land of Westeros. Friction between the houses leads to full-scale war. All while a very ancient evil awakens in the farthest north. Amidst the war, a neglected military order of misfits, the Night's Watch, is all that stands between the realms of men and icy horrors beyond.
Why watch: If you’re drawn to epic fantasy with power struggles and large-scale conflict, Game of Thrones is an obvious fit. Its mix of action, drama, and fantasy makes it a good pick for viewers who like sweeping world-building.
Directed by David Nutter, Alan Taylor, Alex Graves, Miguel Sapochnik, Mark MylodCast Peter Dinklage, Lena Headey, Kit Harington, Emilia Clarke, Sophie TurnerMaxMore details on IMDb → -
11
Mad Men
Won 16 Emmys 3x Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series · 116 nominations
drama
Set in 1960-1970 New York, this sexy, stylized and provocative drama follows the lives of the ruthlessly competitive men and women of Madison Avenue advertising.
Why watch: If you enjoy stylish drama with a period setting, Mad Men is a strong option. Its focus on advertising in 1960s and 1970s New York will appeal to fans of character-driven storytelling.
Directed by Phil Abraham, Michael Uppendahl, Jennifer Getzinger, Matthew Weiner, Scott HornbacherCast Jon Hamm, Elisabeth Moss, Vincent Kartheiser, January Jones, Christina HendricksAMC+MaxMore details on IMDb → -
12
The Big Bang Theory
Won 10 Emmys 4x Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series · 55 nominations
comedy · romance
Physicists Leonard and Sheldon find their nerd-centric social circle with pals Howard and Raj expanding when aspiring actress Penny moves in next door.
Why watch: If you want an easygoing comedy with romance mixed in, The Big Bang Theory is a dependable pick. Its ensemble of roommates and neighbors makes it a natural choice for sitcom fans.
Directed by Mark Cendrowski, Anthony Rich, Peter Chakos, Nikki Lorre, Howard MurrayCast Johnny Galecki, Jim Parsons, Kaley Cuoco, Simon Helberg, Kunal NayyarMaxMore details on IMDb → -
13
House of the Dragon
Won 2 Emmys Outstanding Drama Series (2023) · 15 nominations
action · adventure · drama · fantasy · romance
The Targaryen dynasty is at the absolute apex of its power, with more than 15 dragons under their yoke. Most empires crumble from such heights. In the case of the Targaryens, their slow fall begins when King Viserys breaks with a century of tradition by naming his daughter Rhaenyra heir to the Iron Throne. But when Viserys later fathers a son, the court is shocked when Rhaenyra retains her status as his heir, and seeds of division sow friction across the realm.
Why watch: If you like fantasy with court politics and family tension, House of the Dragon should be on your list. The story centers on a powerful dynasty and a struggle over succession.
Directed by Clare Kilner, Geeta Vasant Patel, Miguel Sapochnik, Greg Yaitanes, Loni PeristereCast Matt Smith, Emma D'Arcy, Steve Toussaint, Sonoya Mizuno, Kurt EgyiawanMaxMore details on IMDb → -
14
Rick and Morty
Won 2 Emmys 5 nominations
animation · adventure · comedy · sci-fi
Rick is a mentally-unbalanced but scientifically gifted old man who has recently reconnected with his family. He spends most of his time involving his young grandson Morty in dangerous, outlandish adventures throughout space and alternate universes. Compounded with Morty's already unstable family life, these events cause Morty much distress at home and school.
Why watch: If you enjoy animated sci-fi comedy with fast, unpredictable ideas, Rick and Morty is a good match. Its multiverse setup and family dynamic make it appealing to viewers who like chaos and genre humor.
Directed by Wes Archer, Jacob Hair, Pete Michels, Nathan Litz, Kyoung Hee LimCast Chris Parnell, Spencer Grammer, Sarah Chalke, Justin Roiland, Kari WahlgrenHuluMaxMore details on IMDb → -
15
The West Wing
Won 26 Emmys 2x Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series · 95 nominations
drama
The West Wing provides a glimpse into presidential politics in the nation's capital as it tells the stories of the members of a fictional presidential administration. These interesting characters have humor and dedication that touches the heart while the politics that they discuss touch on everyday life.
Why watch: If you like political drama with smart dialogue, The West Wing is a strong pick. Its presidential setting and mix of humor and dedication should appeal to viewers who enjoy ensemble storytelling.
Directed by Christopher Misiano, Alex Graves, Thomas Schlamme, Lesli Linka Glatter, Laura InnesCast Allison Janney, John Spencer, Bradley Whitford, Martin Sheen, Janel MoloneyNetflixMaxMore details on IMDb → -
16
True Detective
Won 6 Emmys Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series (2014) · 41 nominations
crime · drama · mystery · thriller
An American anthology police detective series utilizing multiple timelines in which investigations seem to unearth personal and professional secrets of those involved, both within or outside the law.
Why watch: If you want a crime drama with mystery and thriller elements, True Detective is a solid choice. Its anthology format and multiple timelines should interest viewers who like investigations with depth.
Directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga, Issa López, Daniel Sackheim, John Crowley, Justin LinCast Matthew McConaughey, Colin Farrell, Mahershala Ali, Woody Harrelson, Rachel McAdamsMaxMore details on IMDb → -
17
Schitt's Creek
Won 9 Emmys Outstanding Comedy Series (2020) · 19 nominations
comedy
Formerly filthy rich video store magnate Johnny Rose, his soap star wife Moira, and their two kids, über-hipster son David and socialite daughter Alexis, suddenly find themselves broke and forced to live in Schitt's Creek, a small depressing town they once bought as a joke.
Why watch: If you enjoy comedy built around a family forced to adapt, Schitt's Creek is a great option. The premise of a wealthy family starting over in a small town gives the series a clear fish-out-of-water appeal.
Directed by Paul Fox, Jerry Ciccoritti, Jordan Canning, Andrew Cividino, T.W. PeacockeCast Eugene Levy, Catherine O'Hara, Dan Levy, Annie Murphy, Chris ElliottHuluMaxMore details on IMDb → -
18
The Wire
2 Emmy nominations 2x Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series
crime · drama · thriller
Told from the points of view of both the Baltimore homicide and narcotics detectives and their targets, the series captures a universe in which the national war on drugs has become a permanent, self-sustaining bureaucracy, and distinctions between good and evil are routinely obliterated.
Why watch: If you like crime drama with a serious, grounded tone, The Wire is essential viewing. Its focus on Baltimore’s police and drug trade should appeal to viewers who want complex storytelling.
Directed by Joe Chappelle, Ernest Dickerson, Clark Johnson, Ed Bianchi, Steve ShillCast Dominic West, John Doman, Dede Lovejoy, Wendell Pierce, Lance ReddickMaxMore details on IMDb → -
19
Gold Rush
reality-tv
Follow the lives of ambitious miners as they head north in pursuit of gold. With new miners, new claims, new machines and new ways to pull gold out of the ground, the stakes are higher than ever. But will big risks lead to an even bigger pay out?
Why watch: If you enjoy reality TV about high-stakes ambition, Gold Rush is a fitting pick. The mining premise works well for viewers who like competition, risk, and big payoff energy.
Directed by Matthew Phypers, Tom Whitworth, Mark Stevenson, Jeremy Weiss, Edward GorsuchCast Paul Christie, Dan Etheridge, Nathan SlatteryMaxMore details on IMDb → -
20
Friends
Won 6 Emmys Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series (1996) · 62 nominations
comedy · romance
Six young people from New York City, on their own and struggling to survive in the real world, find the companionship, comfort and support they get from each other to be the perfect antidote to the pressures of life.
Why watch: If you want a classic comedy with romance and strong ensemble chemistry, Friends is an easy recommendation. Its focus on six young New Yorkers navigating life together makes it a familiar comfort watch.
Directed by Gary Halvorson, Kevin Bright, Michael Lembeck, James Burrows, Gail MancusoCast Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew PerryMaxMore details on IMDb →
Wrapping Up
This collection makes it easy to find a show that fits your mood, whether you want a smart workplace comedy, a tense crime series, or a sprawling fantasy epic. A mix of classic favorites and newer titles means there’s something here for first-time viewers and returning fans alike. Bookmark this page and come back when you want a quick guide to the strongest options on the service. It’s updated regularly, so the recommendations can keep pace with what’s worth your time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 10 best series on HBO Max?
Our top 10 right now: Nathan for You (2013), War (2026), Lanterns (2026), Abbott Elementary (2021), The Rehearsal (2022), Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage (2024), The Great Pottery Throw Down (2015), Youth (2026), The Pitt (2025) and Game of Thrones (2011), all streaming on Max.
What is the #1 show on HBO Max?
Our No. 1 pick right now is Nathan for You (2013), streaming on Max.
Do I need a Max subscription to watch these?
Yes. Every title on this list is currently available on Max. Availability can change, so we recommend checking the streaming link on each title before you start watching.