TL;DR
Netflix’s preliminary 2026 schedule emphasizes returning series and more live programming, along with a modest film lineup. Several high-profile TV franchises are slated to return, and the streamer is expanding event and sports coverage while its gaming slate remains limited.
What happened
Netflix published an early look at its 2026 programming plan that leans heavily on established properties and live events. The streamer confirmed new seasons for several major series — including season 2 of 3 Body Problem, season 2 of the live-action Avatar: The Last Airbender, and a fifth and final season of The Witcher — though those three have only a general 2026 window. Bridgerton season 4 will arrive in two parts on January 29 and February 26; live-action One Piece returns March 10; and Beef season 2 lands April 16. Stranger Things remains concluded as a series, but Netflix will release a behind-the-scenes documentary on the final season on January 12 and an animated spinoff titled Tales From ‘85 later in 2026. The film slate includes Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man (theatrical March 6, Netflix March 20), Enola Holmes 3 (summer) and Greta Gerwig’s Narnia (theatrical in November, streaming in December). Live programming and sports also figure prominently, with talent shows, stunts, award coverage and new MLB content on the roster.
Why it matters
- Netflix is shifting emphasis from recently concluded tentpole series toward other franchise-driven content to sustain subscriber interest.
- A stronger push into live programming and sports reflects an effort to diversify offerings beyond on-demand TV and film.
- The presence of multiple high-profile returns underscores Netflix’s reliance on established IP rather than a large slate of new tentpoles.
- A relatively small gaming slate suggests the gaming initiative is still early-stage compared with Netflix’s TV and film plans.
Key facts
- Bridgerton season 4 will be released in two parts: January 29 and February 26, 2026.
- Live-action One Piece season 2 is scheduled to premiere on March 10, 2026.
- Beef season 2 is scheduled for April 16, 2026.
- 3 Body Problem season 2, Avatar: The Last Airbender season 2 (live-action), and The Witcher season 5 are all slated for 2026 but have no specific premiere dates beyond that year.
- Stranger Things concluded its main run, but a behind-the-scenes documentary on the final season will stream on January 12, 2026; an animated spinoff, Tales From ‘85, is also planned for 2026.
- Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man will open in theaters on March 6 and arrive on Netflix on March 20, 2026.
- Enola Holmes 3 is scheduled for a summer 2026 release; Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of Narnia will be theatrical in November and stream in December 2026.
- Netflix’s unreleased gaming slate currently lists a single untitled FIFA title, which joins its TV game initiative.
- Netflix is expanding live programming with events including a Star Search revival (January 20), a live skyscraper climb (January 23), the SAG-AFTRA Actor Awards (March 1), and additional events from WWE, the NFL and a new MLB deal.
What to watch next
- Bridgerton season 4 (two-part release on January 29 and February 26, 2026).
- Live-action One Piece season 2 (March 10, 2026) and Beef season 2 (April 16, 2026).
- The Witcher season 5 and 3 Body Problem season 2 — both listed for 2026 but without specific premiere dates.
Quick glossary
- Franchise: A series or collection of related media (TV shows, films, books, etc.) that share characters, settings, or storylines and are marketed together.
- Live programming: Broadcasts or streams that are transmitted in real time, including events, award shows, sports, and live competitions.
- Spinoff: A new work derived from an existing series that focuses on different characters or stories within the same universe.
- Theatrical window: The period during which a film is released exclusively in movie theaters before becoming available on streaming or other home platforms.
Reader FAQ
Is Stranger Things coming back with more seasons?
The main Stranger Things series has concluded; Netflix will release a behind-the-scenes documentary on the final season (January 12, 2026) and an animated spinoff, Tales From ‘85, is due in 2026.
When does Bridgerton season 4 arrive?
Bridgerton season 4 is scheduled in two parts: January 29 and February 26, 2026.
What major films are on Netflix’s 2026 slate?
Titles listed include Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man (theaters March 6, Netflix March 20), Enola Holmes 3 (summer), and Greta Gerwig’s Narnia (theatrical in November, streaming in December 2026).
Is Netflix expanding into live events and sports?
Yes. The 2026 plan features live shows and events (Star Search, a live skyscraper climb, SAG-AFTRA Actor Awards) and additional programming from WWE, the NFL and a new MLB deal.
How extensive is Netflix’s gaming lineup for 2026?
Not confirmed in the source.
STREAMING ENTERTAINMENT NEWS Netflix is bringing back some big franchises in 2026 With Stranger Things over, the streamer is counting on the likes of One Piece and Bridgerton to carry…
Sources
- Netflix is bringing back some big franchises in 2026
- Netflix 2026 TV Slate: Bridgerton, Beef, Hunting Wives, More
- Netflix's 2025 Year In Review: The Biggest Stories and …
- Attention, Spoilers! Netflix Ends the Year With a Twist
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