Top International Series to Watch in 2026: Highlights from January to July

Exciting Series from Early 2026

The first half of 2026 has already delivered an impressive lineup of series, leaving us eager for what the latter half will bring. Several shows have made a strong comeback with new seasons, while some fresh titles have quickly gained popularity. Notably, we bid farewell to acclaimed series like The Bear and Hacks, both of which concluded their runs. As we approach awards season, these series have captivated audiences and evoked deep emotions. Here’s a roundup of the standout international series from the first six months of the year.

The Pitt Season 2

The Emmy-winning HBO medical drama returned for its second season on July 4. While Dr. Robby (Noah Wyle) takes a sabbatical, the team at Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Center faces a challenging day filled with a cyber threat, an ICE visit, and numerous holiday-related injuries. The Pitt poignantly portrays the emotional toll on healthcare workers dealing with life and death on a daily basis.

Widow's Bay

This horror-comedy series, created by Katie Dippold, is both hilarious and terrifying. Matthew Rhys stars as Mayor Tom Loftis, who attempts to boost tourism in his town while confronting ancient legends and monsters that have resurfaced. The performances by Kate O'Flynn, Stephen Root, Hamish Linklater, and Betty Gilpin are exceptional, and we look forward to more island adventures in Season 2.

A Knight Of The Seven Kingdoms

This second spinoff from the Game of Thrones franchise offers a refreshing take. Based on George RR Martin's novellas, the HBO series follows Ser Duncan the Tall (Peter Claffey) and his squire Egg (Dexter Sol Ansell) as they journey through Westeros. The first season reveals their backstories, including some heart-wrenching pasts and surprising secrets. Showrun by Ira Parker, the series stands out on its own.

Margo's Got Money Troubles

Adapted from Rufi Thorpe's novel by David E Kelley, this heartwarming comedy stars Elle Fanning as a young woman who becomes pregnant by her college professor. As a single mother, Margo turns to OnlyFans, creating a persona called the Hungry Ghost, with her parents Jinx (Nick Offerman) and Shyanne (Michelle Pfeiffer) supporting her.

The Night Manager Season 2

After a decade, Tom Hiddleston reprises his role as Jonathan Pine in this BBC spy series, based on John le Carre's novel. The second season, featuring Diego Calva and Camila Morrone, shifts the action to South America, introducing shocking twists that leave fans eager for the next installment, where Pine seeks revenge.

Honourable Mentions

Two series concluded their runs with grace, staying true to their narratives. HBO's Hacks Season 5, created by Lucia Aniello, Paul W Downs, and Jen Statsky, featured Jean Smart as comedy icon Deborah Vance. The finale moved fans to tears as it highlighted Deborah's health struggles and her bond with comedy writer Ava (Hannah Einbender). Meanwhile, FX's The Bear Season 5, created by Christopher Storer, followed a grieving chef returning to his brother's sandwich shop, ultimately finding peace with his family and friends. Lastly, Apple TV's Shrinking Season 3 felt like a series finale, focusing on graduations and farewells, emphasizing the theme of healing.