Netflix continues to be a leading destination for entertainment in 2026, offering an exciting combination of gripping thrillers, romantic dramas, supernatural mysteries, action-packed adventures, and thought-provoking science fiction. Whether you enjoy suspenseful crime investigations, emotional love stories, or thrilling fantasy worlds, there is something worth adding to your watchlist.
Finding the best Netflix series 2026 can be challenging because the platform features hundreds of original productions, international hits, and returning favorites. Some shows attract viewers with extraordinary storytelling, while others stand out through memorable performances, cinematic visuals, and unexpected plot twists.
From the romantic world of Bridgerton to the imaginative adventures of ONE PIECE, Netflix provides a wide selection of entertainment for different audiences. This guide explores 20 series worth watching in 2026, including new releases, returning seasons, and established favorites.
You’ll also discover the best Netflix shows by genre, recommendations for binge-watching, and practical tips for choosing your next favorite series.
Quick Answer: What Are the Best Netflix Series in 2026?
Some of the best Netflix series to watch in 2026 include Bridgerton, ONE PIECE, The Night Agent, The Diplomat, The Gentlemen, His & Hers, Run Away, Wednesday, Stranger Things, and Black Mirror.
These shows cover different genres, including romance, action, mystery, science fiction, fantasy, and psychological thrillers. The best choice depends on your preferred storytelling style and the amount of time you want to spend watching.
Top 20 Best Netflix Series 2026 at a Glance
| Rank | Netflix Series | Genre | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bridgerton | Romance, Period Drama | Romantic storytelling |
| 2 | ONE PIECE | Action, Fantasy | Epic adventures |
| 3 | The Night Agent | Action, Thriller | Political conspiracies |
| 4 | His & Hers | Mystery, Thriller | Unexpected twists |
| 5 | The Gentlemen | Crime, Comedy | Stylish crime stories |
| 6 | The Diplomat | Political Drama | Intelligent suspense |
| 7 | Run Away | Crime, Mystery | Family secrets |
| 8 | Wednesday | Fantasy, Mystery | Gothic entertainment |
| 9 | Stranger Things | Sci-Fi, Horror | Supernatural adventure |
| 10 | Black Mirror | Science Fiction | Thought-provoking stories |
| 11 | The Lincoln Lawyer | Legal Drama | Courtroom mysteries |
| 12 | Lupin | Crime, Mystery | Clever heists |
| 13 | Outer Banks | Adventure, Drama | Treasure hunting |
| 14 | Nobody Wants This | Romantic Comedy | Modern relationships |
| 15 | 3 Body Problem | Science Fiction | Complex mysteries |
| 16 | Squid Game | Survival Thriller | High-stakes drama |
| 17 | Virgin River | Romance, Drama | Emotional storytelling |
| 18 | Emily in Paris | Romantic Comedy | Fashion and relationships |
| 19 | Devil May Cry | Animated Action | Supernatural battles |
| 20 | Adolescence | Psychological Drama | Serious social themes |
Editor’s note: This is a curated watchlist, not an official Netflix popularity ranking. Some series premiered before 2026 but remain excellent viewing choices. Availability may differ by country.
1. Bridgerton – Best Romantic Netflix Series
Genre: Romance, Historical Drama
Best For: Viewers who love passionate relationships, emotional storytelling, and historical settings.
Bridgerton remains one of Netflix’s most recognizable romantic dramas. Set in Regency-era London, the series follows the influential Bridgerton family as its members navigate love, marriage, social expectations, and personal ambitions.
The show’s fourth season focuses on Benedict Bridgerton and Sophie Baek, exploring a romance complicated by social class and family expectations.
One of the series’ greatest strengths is its ability to combine traditional period drama with modern storytelling. Elegant costumes, grand ballrooms, beautiful music, and emotionally complicated characters create an immersive viewing experience.
The romantic relationships feel central to the narrative, but family dynamics, personal growth, and social pressures add further depth.
Why You Should Watch It: Bridgerton is an excellent choice for viewers who enjoy emotionally engaging romances, memorable characters, and visually impressive historical settings.
2. ONE PIECE – Best Fantasy Adventure Series
Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Best For: Fans of imaginative worlds, friendship, and exciting adventures.
Netflix’s live-action adaptation of ONE PIECE follows Monkey D. Luffy, a determined young pirate who dreams of discovering the legendary One Piece treasure and becoming King of the Pirates.
Alongside his companions, Luffy travels through extraordinary locations, encounters powerful enemies, and builds friendships that shape his journey.
The second season expands the adventure as the Straw Hat Pirates move toward the Grand Line, encountering new dangers and unusual characters.
What makes ONE PIECE special is its balance between energetic action and heartfelt storytelling. The characters have distinct personalities, personal motivations, and emotional backgrounds.
Why You Should Watch It: Its colorful world, entertaining action, strong friendships, and adventurous spirit make ONE PIECE one of the most enjoyable fantasy series available on Netflix.
3. The Night Agent – Best Action Thriller
Genre: Action, Crime, Political Thriller
Best For: Viewers who enjoy espionage, government conspiracies, and suspenseful investigations.
The Night Agent follows FBI agent Peter Sutherland, whose involvement in sensitive government operations places him at the center of dangerous conspiracies.
The series combines intelligence investigations, political secrets, and high-pressure action sequences.
As Peter uncovers new information, he must determine whom he can trust while protecting people caught in dangerous circumstances.
The storytelling moves quickly, using unexpected revelations and escalating threats to maintain tension.
Unlike slower political dramas, The Night Agent emphasizes immediate danger, urgent decisions, and dramatic confrontations.
Why You Should Watch It: Fast pacing, engaging action, and unpredictable conspiracies make it ideal for viewers who enjoy binge-worthy thrillers.
4. His & Hers – Best Psychological Mystery
Genre: Mystery, Crime, Psychological Thriller
Best For: Fans of complicated investigations, unreliable characters, and surprising revelations.
His & Hers follows Anna, a journalist, and Jack, a detective, whose lives become connected through a disturbing murder investigation.
Their complicated personal history makes the investigation especially difficult because both characters have secrets that influence their actions.
As new evidence emerges, viewers begin questioning the reliability of different perspectives.
The series explores how personal experiences, emotional conflicts, and hidden motivations can influence perceptions of the truth.
Its limited-series format creates a focused narrative that builds toward major revelations.
Why You Should Watch It: Strong performances, psychological tension, and unexpected developments make His & Hers a compelling choice for mystery lovers.
5. The Gentlemen – Best Crime Comedy
Genre: Crime, Comedy, Drama
Best For: Viewers who appreciate dark humor, clever dialogue, and unconventional criminal characters.
The Gentlemen follows Eddie Horniman, who inherits a family estate only to discover that the property is connected to a major criminal enterprise.
His unexpected involvement in organized crime forces him to navigate dangerous relationships, shifting alliances, and morally complicated decisions.
The series combines serious criminal situations with sharp British humor.
Its characters frequently rely on manipulation, negotiation, and strategic thinking rather than straightforward violence.
Stylish cinematography and distinctive dialogue give the show a memorable personality.
Why You Should Watch It: The combination of sophisticated humor, engaging performances, and unpredictable crime plots makes it a refreshing alternative to traditional gangster dramas.
6. The Diplomat – Best Political Drama
Genre: Political Thriller, Drama
Best For: Viewers interested in international relations, diplomacy, and intelligent storytelling.
The Diplomat follows Kate Wyler, an experienced American diplomat navigating international crises while managing complicated political and personal relationships.
The series examines the responsibilities of diplomacy, the consequences of political decisions, and the difficulty of balancing professional obligations with personal values.
Rather than relying entirely on action sequences, the show builds suspense through conversations, negotiations, and strategic decisions.
Its characters face situations where even small mistakes can have serious international consequences.
Why You Should Watch It: Strong writing, layered political conflicts, and compelling performances make The Diplomat particularly appealing to viewers who enjoy thoughtful drama.
7. Run Away – Best Family Mystery Thriller
Genre: Crime, Mystery, Thriller
Best For: Viewers who enjoy emotional investigations and unpredictable family secrets.
Based on a novel by Harlan Coben, Run Away follows Simon Greene, a father desperately searching for his missing daughter.
His investigation leads him into dangerous situations involving crime, deception, and unexpected connections.
As Simon searches for answers, he discovers information that challenges his understanding of his family and the people around him.
The series combines the urgency of a missing-person investigation with the emotional consequences of family conflict.
Why You Should Watch It: Its suspenseful storyline, emotional stakes, and frequent twists make it an excellent choice for viewers seeking a gripping mystery.
8. Wednesday – Best Supernatural Mystery Series
Genre: Fantasy, Mystery, Dark Comedy
Best For: Fans of gothic settings, unusual characters, and supernatural investigations.
Wednesday follows Wednesday Addams as she navigates life at Nevermore Academy, a school for students with extraordinary abilities.
Her experiences involve mysterious events, complicated friendships, family secrets, and supernatural threats.
Wednesday’s sarcastic personality and unconventional approach to relationships give the series much of its distinctive humor.
The show successfully combines teenage drama with detective-style storytelling and gothic fantasy.
Why You Should Watch It: Its unique visual style, memorable central character, dark humor, and supernatural mysteries make it entertaining for viewers who enjoy unconventional fantasy dramas.
9. Stranger Things – Best Sci-Fi Horror Adventure
Genre: Science Fiction, Horror, Mystery
Best For: Viewers who enjoy supernatural mysteries, nostalgic settings, and emotional friendships.
Stranger Things follows a group of young friends in Hawkins, Indiana, whose lives become connected to extraordinary supernatural events.
The series combines mysterious government experiments, dangerous creatures, alternate dimensions, and the emotional challenges of growing up.
Its 1980s setting provides a nostalgic atmosphere, while the evolving relationships between the characters create emotional investment.
The show’s overarching story reaches its conclusion with its fifth season, making it a complete adventure for viewers discovering it in 2026.
Why You Should Watch It: Strong character development, cinematic storytelling, supernatural suspense, and emotional friendships make Stranger Things one of Netflix’s most memorable original productions.
10. Black Mirror – Best Thought-Provoking Science Fiction
Genre: Science Fiction, Psychological Drama, Anthology
Best For: Viewers interested in technology, human behavior, and unsettling futuristic possibilities.
Black Mirror explores the relationship between technological innovation and human society.
Most episodes present independent stories involving subjects such as artificial intelligence, digital surveillance, social media, virtual reality, and personal identity.
The series frequently asks difficult questions about how technology can influence morality, relationships, and individual freedom.
Its anthology format allows viewers to watch different episodes without following a continuous storyline.
Why You Should Watch It: Creative concepts, unexpected endings, and philosophical themes make Black Mirror particularly rewarding for viewers who enjoy intellectually challenging entertainment.
11. The Lincoln Lawyer – Best Legal Drama
Genre: Legal Drama, Crime, Mystery
Best For: Viewers who enjoy courtroom battles, criminal investigations, and intelligent legal strategies.
The Lincoln Lawyer follows Mickey Haller, a Los Angeles defense attorney known for handling complicated cases while operating his practice from his Lincoln vehicles.
The series combines courtroom drama with criminal mysteries, personal challenges, and unexpected legal developments.
Mickey frequently represents clients whose cases involve conflicting evidence, hidden motivations, and difficult ethical decisions.
Rather than presenting every case as a simple struggle between innocence and guilt, the series explores the complicated realities of legal representation.
Why You Should Watch It: Clever courtroom strategies, intriguing investigations, and strong character development make it a rewarding legal drama.
12. Lupin – Best Heist Thriller
Genre: Crime, Mystery, Thriller
Best For: Fans of clever criminals, elaborate schemes, and stylish European dramas.
Lupin follows Assane Diop, a charismatic French gentleman thief inspired by the literary character Arsène Lupin.
Assane uses disguises, intelligence, observation, and carefully planned deception to challenge powerful enemies.
His criminal activities are connected to personal motivations, family relationships, and unresolved injustices.
The series combines suspenseful heists with emotional storytelling, creating a central character who is both clever and sympathetic.
Why You Should Watch It: Creative criminal strategies, unexpected twists, and the atmospheric Parisian setting make Lupin an entertaining crime thriller.
13. Outer Banks – Best Teen Adventure Drama
Genre: Adventure, Mystery, Teen Drama
Best For: Viewers who enjoy treasure hunts, friendships, romance, and dangerous adventures.
Outer Banks follows a group of young friends whose lives become connected to mysterious treasures, family rivalries, and dangerous discoveries.
The series combines coastal scenery with high-stakes adventures and emotional relationships.
Its central characters frequently face challenges that test their friendships and personal loyalties.
Romantic complications, family conflicts, and unexpected discoveries add additional layers to the story.
Why You Should Watch It: Exciting treasure hunts, energetic storytelling, and strong friendships make it a great choice for adventure lovers.
14. Nobody Wants This – Best Modern Romantic Comedy
Genre: Romance, Comedy, Drama
Best For: Viewers who appreciate realistic relationships, witty conversations, and emotional humor.
Nobody Wants This follows Joanne, an outspoken podcast host, and Noah, a rabbi, whose unexpected relationship creates personal and cultural challenges.
Their connection forces them to navigate family expectations, religious differences, and questions about long-term compatibility.
The series explores modern romance through humorous situations and emotionally honest conversations.
Unlike traditional romantic comedies that focus entirely on exaggerated misunderstandings, the show gives considerable attention to communication and personal growth.
Why You Should Watch It: Natural chemistry between the leads, relatable relationship challenges, and sharp humor make it a standout romantic comedy.
15. 3 Body Problem – Best Complex Science Fiction Series
Genre: Science Fiction, Mystery, Drama
Best For: Viewers who enjoy scientific mysteries, extraterrestrial civilizations, and ambitious storytelling.
3 Body Problem explores humanity’s response to mysterious scientific events and the possibility of contact with an advanced alien civilization.
The narrative connects scientists, governments, and individuals whose decisions may influence the future of humanity.
The series examines scientific discovery, technological progress, survival, and the ethical consequences of extraordinary knowledge.
Its storytelling combines intellectual questions with emotional conflicts and suspenseful developments.
Why You Should Watch It: Ambitious science-fiction concepts, complex mysteries, and philosophical questions make it an engaging choice for thoughtful viewers.
16. Squid Game – Best Survival Thriller
Genre: Survival, Thriller, Psychological Drama
Best For: Viewers who enjoy intense competition, social commentary, and morally complicated characters.
Squid Game follows financially desperate contestants who participate in dangerous competitions for the possibility of winning a substantial cash prize.
The games appear simple, but their consequences are deadly.
The series explores financial inequality, desperation, greed, loyalty, and the difficult choices people make under extreme pressure.
Its visual style contrasts colorful environments with disturbing events, creating a memorable atmosphere.
Why You Should Watch It: High-stakes suspense, powerful social commentary, and emotionally challenging situations make it a distinctive survival drama.
17. Virgin River – Best Emotional Romantic Drama
Genre: Romance, Family Drama
Best For: Viewers who prefer heartfelt relationships, small-town communities, and comforting storytelling.
Virgin River follows Mel Monroe, a nurse practitioner who moves to a small Northern California town seeking a fresh start.
Her new environment introduces personal relationships, emotional challenges, and opportunities for healing.
The series focuses on friendship, love, community support, and the complexities of everyday life.
Its peaceful natural setting provides a relaxing contrast to more intense crime and action dramas.
Why You Should Watch It: Warm storytelling, emotional relationships, and relatable personal challenges make it ideal for viewers seeking a comforting series.
18. Emily in Paris – Best Fashion and Romance Series
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Drama
Best For: Viewers who enjoy fashion, travel, workplace relationships, and lighthearted romance.
Emily in Paris follows Emily Cooper, an American marketing professional navigating career opportunities and personal relationships while living abroad.
The series explores cultural differences, workplace challenges, friendships, and complicated romantic situations.
Its fashionable outfits, attractive European locations, and energetic storytelling contribute to its appeal.
The show balances professional ambitions with personal decisions, creating entertaining conflicts.
Why You Should Watch It: Colorful locations, stylish fashion, and accessible romantic comedy make it an enjoyable choice for casual viewing.
19. Devil May Cry – Best Animated Action Series
Genre: Animation, Action, Supernatural Fantasy
Best For: Fans of supernatural combat, video game adaptations, and fast-paced animation.
Devil May Cry follows Dante, a demon hunter who confronts dangerous supernatural threats.
Inspired by Capcom’s popular video game franchise, the animated series combines intense battles with dark fantasy elements.
Its action sequences emphasize speed, dramatic confrontations, and visually imaginative combat.
The story also explores Dante’s identity and his connection to the supernatural world.
Why You Should Watch It: Energetic animation, stylish combat, and supernatural storytelling make it an appealing choice for action enthusiasts.
20. Adolescence – Best Serious Psychological Drama
Genre: Psychological Drama, Crime
Best For: Viewers interested in realistic social issues, family relationships, and emotionally challenging stories.
Adolescence follows a family whose life changes dramatically when a teenage boy becomes involved in a serious criminal investigation.
The series explores the psychological consequences of the investigation and its effects on family members, educators, and the surrounding community.
It also examines social pressures, online behavior, parenting, and the difficulties of understanding adolescent experiences.
Its immersive filmmaking creates an intense viewing experience.
Why You Should Watch It: Powerful performances, thoughtful storytelling, and serious social themes make Adolescence an impactful drama.
Best New Netflix Series Released in 2026
While established Netflix originals remain popular, several new productions have attracted considerable attention during 2026.
| Netflix Series | Genre | Main Appeal |
|---|---|---|
| His & Hers | Psychological Thriller | Murder investigation and hidden secrets |
| Run Away | Crime Mystery | Missing-person investigation |
| I Will Find You | Crime Thriller | Wrongful conviction and family mystery |
| Nemesis | Crime Drama | Dangerous criminal conflicts |
| Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials | Period Mystery | Classic detective storytelling |
| Jo Nesbø’s Detective Hole | Nordic Noir | Dark criminal investigations |
Netflix’s first-half 2026 report identified His & Hers as its most-watched original series during January–June, with 104 million views. Bridgerton Season 4 followed with approximately 100 million views.
About Netflix
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These figures highlight the popularity of mystery dramas and returning romantic favorites, although viewership alone does not determine artistic quality.
Best Netflix Series 2026 by Genre
Choosing the right series becomes easier when you focus on the type of entertainment you enjoy.
Best Netflix Crime and Thriller Series
For crime and suspense enthusiasts, His & Hers, The Night Agent, Run Away, Lupin, and The Gentlemen offer different styles of storytelling.
His & Hers emphasizes psychological tension, while The Night Agent focuses on espionage and government conspiracies.
The Gentlemen combines criminal activity with dark humor, making it suitable for viewers who prefer stylish and unconventional crime dramas.
Best Netflix Romantic Series
Romance fans should consider Bridgerton, Nobody Wants This, Virgin River, and Emily in Paris.
Bridgerton offers passionate historical romance, while Nobody Wants This examines contemporary relationships.
Virgin River provides emotional small-town storytelling, and Emily in Paris delivers lighter romantic entertainment.
Best Netflix Action and Adventure Series
ONE PIECE, Outer Banks, The Night Agent, and Devil May Cry are strong choices for action enthusiasts.
Each approaches adventure differently, ranging from imaginative pirate journeys to espionage investigations and supernatural combat.
Best Netflix Science Fiction Series
For science-fiction fans, Stranger Things, Black Mirror, and 3 Body Problem offer distinctive viewing experiences.
Stranger Things emphasizes supernatural adventure, while Black Mirror examines the consequences of technological development.
3 Body Problem explores scientific mysteries and humanity’s place in the universe.
Best Netflix Mystery Series
His & Hers, Run Away, Wednesday, and The Lincoln Lawyer are suitable for viewers who enjoy investigations and unexpected discoveries.
Their mysteries range from murder investigations and family secrets to supernatural events and complicated legal cases.
Most-Watched Netflix Series in the First Half of 2026
Popularity is one useful factor when choosing what to watch, although it should not be confused with critical quality.
Netflix’s official January–June 2026 engagement report highlighted the following productions.
| Netflix Series | Reported Views |
|---|---|
| His & Hers | 104 million |
| Bridgerton Season 4 | Approximately 100 million |
| I Will Find You | Approximately 64 million |
| Run Away | Approximately 50 million |
| Teach You a Lesson | Approximately 48 million |
| Nemesis Season 1 | Approximately 33 million |
These are selected viewing figures from Netflix’s report, not a complete ranking of every series.
About Netflix
The numbers demonstrate the appeal of crime mysteries, romance, and international productions among Netflix audiences.
How to Choose the Best Netflix Series to Watch in 2026
Finding the right series depends on more than popularity.
Consider Your Favorite Genre
If you enjoy suspense, start with crime thrillers such as His & Hers or The Night Agent.
If you prefer emotional relationships, Bridgerton and Virgin River may be better choices.
Check the Number of Episodes
Limited series are convenient for viewers who want a complete story over a weekend.
Longer shows provide more time for character development and ongoing storylines.
Look at the Storytelling Style
Some viewers prefer fast-moving action, while others enjoy slow-building suspense or character-driven drama.
Reading a brief plot description can help you identify whether a series matches your interests.
Consider Age Ratings
Netflix offers content for different audiences, and some series contain mature language, violence, disturbing themes, or sexual content.
Check the maturity rating and content warnings before watching.
Check Regional Availability
Netflix catalogs differ by country because of licensing agreements and distribution arrangements.
A series available in the United States may not be available in every other region.
Why Netflix Series Remain Popular in 2026
Netflix continues attracting viewers through a combination of original storytelling, international productions, recognizable franchises, and accessible streaming technology.
Diverse Storytelling
Netflix offers entertainment across many genres, including science fiction, romance, comedy, crime, fantasy, and documentaries.
This variety allows viewers with different preferences to discover suitable content.
International Productions
Shows produced outside Hollywood introduce audiences to different languages, cultures, and storytelling traditions.
International hits have also helped make subtitled and dubbed entertainment more familiar to global audiences.
High Production Values
Many major Netflix originals feature cinematic visuals, detailed production design, experienced actors, and ambitious storytelling.
These qualities can make television series feel comparable to feature films.
Convenient Binge-Watching
Netflix frequently releases complete seasons or groups of episodes, allowing viewers to watch several installments consecutively.
However, release strategies differ by title, with some seasons arriving in multiple parts.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Netflix Series 2026
What Is the Best Netflix Series in 2026?
The best choice depends on personal taste. His & Hers is a strong psychological mystery, Bridgerton is excellent for romance, and ONE PIECE is ideal for fantasy adventure. Netflix’s first-half viewing report ranked His & Hers as its most-watched original series during that period.
Which Netflix Series Is Best for Binge-Watching?
His & Hers, Run Away, and The Night Agent are excellent options for suspenseful binge-watching. Viewers seeking longer stories can explore Stranger Things, Bridgerton, or ONE PIECE.
What Are the Best Romantic Netflix Series in 2026?
Bridgerton, Nobody Wants This, Virgin River, and Emily in Paris are among the most appealing romantic options. Each offers a different combination of love stories, humor, emotional conflict, and character development.
Which Netflix Series Has the Best Suspense?
His & Hers, Run Away, The Night Agent, and Lupin provide suspenseful stories involving investigations, secrets, and unexpected developments.
What Are the Best Netflix Action Series in 2026?
ONE PIECE, The Night Agent, and Devil May Cry are strong action recommendations. They offer fantasy adventure, political espionage, and supernatural combat, respectively.
Are All the Shows on This List Released in 2026?
No. This guide includes new 2026 productions, returning series with 2026 seasons, and established Netflix favorites that remain worth watching. Not every recommended show premiered in 2026.
Which Netflix Series Is Best for Families?
Family suitability depends on the ages of the viewers and the show’s maturity rating. Some adventure and fantasy series may appeal to older children or teenagers, but parents should review ratings and content descriptions before choosing.
Conclusion
The best Netflix series 2026 offer a wide range of entertainment, from emotional romantic dramas and gripping criminal investigations to imaginative fantasy adventures and thought-provoking science fiction.
For viewers seeking psychological suspense, His & Hers and Run Away are excellent starting points. Romance enthusiasts may prefer Bridgerton or Nobody Wants This, while action lovers can explore ONE PIECE, The Night Agent, and Devil May Cry.
Established favorites such as Stranger Things, Wednesday, Black Mirror, and Squid Game also remain worthwhile choices for viewers who have not experienced their stories.
Ultimately, choosing the right Netflix series depends on your interests, viewing preferences, and available time. Instead of relying entirely on popularity rankings, explore different genres and discover stories that genuinely capture your attention.
Whether you want an exciting weekend binge, a relaxing romantic comedy, or a complex mystery that keeps you guessing, Netflix’s 2026 selection provides plenty of opportunities to find your next favorite show.
