TL;DR
WIRED updated its running guide to the best series streaming on Netflix, highlighting notable entries ranging from Stranger Things’ final season to international thrillers and animated adaptations. The list is regularly refreshed to help viewers prioritize what to watch next.
What happened
WIRED published an updated guide to what it considers the best TV currently available on Netflix, noting the list is refreshed frequently to reflect new and noteworthy additions. The roundup includes returning tentpoles, limited series, international hits, and adult animation. Standouts called out in the story include Stranger Things — now in its fifth and final season, which is being released in three batches — the Spanish crime thriller City of Shadows (recommended in the original Spanish with subtitles), and the animated Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft. The piece also spotlights recent dramas such as The Beast in Me and Boots, action franchises like Splinter Cell: Deathwatch (already renewed for a second season), and fantasy entries such as The Witcher, which has a new lead actor in its fourth season. WIRED frames the guide as a curated selection of shows it believes are worth viewers’ time.
Why it matters
- Helps subscribers navigate a large and frequently changing Netflix catalog by highlighting notable series across genres.
- Includes international and dubbed-content guidance, noting language options that affect viewing experience.
- Signals which franchises and originals are continuing or expanding — useful for viewers tracking renewals and finales.
- Provides release-timing details for major shows, aiding planning for staggered episode drops.
Key facts
- WIRED maintains a weekly-updated guide to the best shows on Netflix.
- Stranger Things is in its fifth and final season; the eight-episode run is being released in three blocks.
- City of Shadows is a Spanish crime thriller; WIRED recommends the original Spanish audio with English subtitles over the English dub.
- Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft is an animated entry bridging modern prequel game events and the 1990s stories.
- Splinter Cell: Deathwatch, an adult animated spin-off, has been renewed for a second season.
- The Witcher’s fourth season features a new actor (Liam Hemsworth) replacing Henry Cavill and shifts focus toward other principal characters.
- The Beast in Me and Boots are among the recent dramas noted for strong performances and distinct premises.
- WIRED’s list includes a mix of limited series, returning seasons, and adaptations across multiple countries and styles.
What to watch next
- Stranger Things — final season released in three blocks: first four episodes available now, three more arriving December 25, and the finale on New Year’s Eve.
- City of Shadows — watch in original Spanish with English subtitles for the full intended experience; the English dub is described as weaker.
- Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft — an animated adventure aimed at fans of the games and newcomers alike.
- not confirmed in the source
Quick glossary
- Limited series: A television show with a single planned season that tells a complete story without expectation of continuation.
- Dubbed audio: A version of a program where the original spoken dialogue is replaced by audio in another language.
- Adult animation: Animated programming intended primarily for mature audiences, often featuring complex themes or graphic content.
- Season renewal: When a streaming service or network confirms that a show will be produced for at least one additional season.
Reader FAQ
How many shows are on WIRED’s Netflix list?
not confirmed in the source
When will the final episode of Stranger Things season 5 arrive?
The story says the season’s last episode is scheduled to be released on New Year’s Eve.
Is Splinter Cell: Deathwatch returning for another season?
Yes — WIRED states the series has already been renewed for a second season.
Should I watch City of Shadows dubbed or subtitled?
WIRED recommends the original Spanish audio with English subtitles, noting the English dub is inferior.
MATT KAMEN WIRED STAFF CULTURE DEC 27, 2025 7:00 AM The 46 Best Shows on Netflix Right Now Stranger Things, City of Shadows, and Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara…
Sources
- The 48 Best Shows on Netflix, WIRED's Picks (December 2025)
- The 46 Best Shows on Netflix, WIRED's Picks (December 2025)
- The 60 best Netflix series to watch in December 2025
- 100 Best Netflix Series To Watch Right Now (December …
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