The best TV of 2026 so far
The Best TV of 2026 So Far
The best TV of 2026 so far - As the calendar turns toward the summer months, 2026 has already delivered a collection of television that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking. From lighthearted 80s-era romances to high-stakes, emotionally charged dramas, the year’s offerings have captured a wide range of viewer interests. Here, we highlight some of the standout shows that have made an indelible mark on the viewing experience so far.
Westeros Lighter, Quicker, and More Delightful
Now/HBO Max’s latest addition to the Game of Thrones universe has proven to be a refreshing departure from the epic, brooding tones of its predecessors. This spin-off, set in the same mythical realm but with a much more humorous and accessible approach, has quickly become a fan favorite. The story follows Ser Dunk and Egg, a duo whose charming dynamic and bumbling charm have made them the audience’s favorite underdogs. Dunk’s unwavering determination to earn his knighthood is a central thread, but the series also weaves in unexpected twists that keep viewers engaged.
“Perhaps the fact that it is not going to set the world on fire, either literally within the show or metaphorically without it, is the point. The real world is now too Westeros-like for us to cope with any more.”
While the series isn’t shy from moments of graphic violence—particularly with the Targaryen twist that sends the plot into a frenzy of bloodshed—it balances these intense scenes with a more straightforward narrative. This approach allows the audience to connect with the characters on a more personal level, making the return to Martin’s fictional world feel both familiar and fresh.
A British Comedy Icon in the Making
On BBC iPlayer, Lucy Punch has carved out a memorable role as Amanda, a character who straddles the line between exasperating and endearing. As a divorced middle-class mother, influencer, and kitchen shop worker, Amanda’s journey is both relatable and wildly entertaining. Her witty exchanges with Philippa Dunne’s Anne, the long-suffering friend who acts as her emotional anchor, and the overbearing mother played by Joanna Lumley create a rich tapestry of humor and heart.
“Amanda slots neatly into a lineage of British comedy icons; file her next to the delusional, narcissistic, indefatigable likes of Alan Partridge and David Brent.”
The show’s charm lies in its ability to blend absurdity with genuine emotion, making Amanda’s aspirations for a larger home in SoHa feel both whimsical and heartfelt. It’s a celebration of women in comedy, capturing the essence of British humor while pushing boundaries with its bold, unapologetic characterizations.
A Comedy of Cultural Identity and Personal Struggle
Prime Video’s *Bait* offers a sharp, introspective take on identity and belonging, anchored by Riz Ahmed’s semi-autobiographical portrayal of an actor grappling with the pressures of fitting into mainstream roles. The show’s premise—a British actor of Pakistani heritage navigating the challenges of playing a white neocolonialist icon—serves as a springboard for its exploration of self-perception and societal expectations. Patrick Stewart’s voice as a dead pig’s head and Guz Khan’s comedic role as a tech-savvy entrepreneur add layers of absurdity and wit to the narrative.
“Bait overcomes any viewer skepticism by rooting the silly fun of set-pieces such as the Bond fight send-up in an emotionally authentic family drama.”
Set against the backdrop of London’s taxi scene, where a pedicab plays UK garage anthems and a thief is pursued through narrow alleyways, the series blends humor with moments of quiet introspection. Ahmed’s character, caught between the demands of his community and his personal ambitions, becomes a poignant reflection of the struggles faced by many in the entertainment industry.
Preserving History Through Personal Stories
Another standout on BBC iPlayer is a 90-minute documentary that captures the essence of the Blitz through the eyes of survivors across the British Isles. With the generation that remembers the Blitz now in their 90s, this film serves as more than just a record of history—it becomes a vital act of preservation. Testimonies shared by individuals from diverse backgrounds reveal the lasting impact of wartime trauma, as well as the resilience that defined the era.
“A huge story is told via dozens of tiny, shattering personal reflections. Ted Bush in Cardiff remembers going to the pictures with his dad. When they returned home, they found a pile of rubble: Ted’s father’s first response was to retrieve his son’s Hornby toy train from the remains of their house.”
The documentary’s emotional depth is underscored by the poignant passing of Patsy Moneypenny, a beloved figure in the production, between filming and broadcast. Her absence adds a layer of melancholy, reminding viewers that time is both a witness and a thief in the preservation of collective memory. This piece is essential for anyone interested in the human experience during one of Britain’s most defining periods.
Queer Romance and the Power of Connection
Now’s latest offering, a hockey romance inspired by Rachel Reid’s novels, has taken the world by storm. Titled *Heated Rivalry*, the series follows the love story of Ilya and Shane, two professional players who feign dislike for each other but secretly share a passionate connection. Their relationship is portrayed with both tenderness and intensity, set against the fast-paced, high-energy world of competitive hockey.
“In any romantic saga, opposites often ignite a powerful connection – and Shane and Ilya are no exception, their love story unfolding with intense passion and emotional depth.”
What sets this show apart is its ability to blend the physicality of hockey with the emotional stakes of a queer love story. The inclusion of scenes like Shane’s soulful monologue in Russian and their serene days in a lake house adds a unique blend of passion and poignancy. The series has become a global phenomenon, with fans gathering to sing its iconic catchphrase: “All the things she said, all the things she said!”
Each of these shows, while distinct in genre and tone, shares a common thread: they challenge the status quo and offer fresh perspectives on familiar themes. Whether it’s a lighthearted take on fantasy, a comedic exploration of identity, or a heartfelt tribute to history, 2026’s television landscape is as vibrant and varied as ever. As the year unfolds, it’s clear that these programs will leave a lasting impression on both critics and casual viewers alike.