After years impacted by strikes, the 2026 television landscape is rebounding strongly with a mix of new series, returning favorites, and reboots aimed at millennials. Highlights include revivals of Scrubs and Malcolm in the Middle, alongside anticipated seasons for shows like Ted Lasso and Euphoria. Networks and streamers have announced premiere dates through the summer, signaling a robust year for viewers.
The 2026 TV calendar is poised for a vibrant return, following the disruptions from the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes in prior years. According to a comprehensive preview, the lineup features exciting new shows, audience favorites resuming, and a notable wave of reboots and revivals. A key trend is the shift toward content targeting the millennial demographic, moving away from earlier Gen-X focused revivals like Netflix's A Different World and Prime Video's American Gladiators.
Leading the millennial appeal is the Scrubs revival on ABC, set for February 25 and led by original star Zach Braff. This follows the Hulu premiere of Malcolm in the Middle: Life’s Still Unfair on April 10, reuniting Frankie Muniz and Bryan Cranston. Another highlight is Ted Lasso's fourth season on Apple TV+, described not as a full reboot but a 'reawakening' after its 2023 conclusion, with creator Bill Lawrence—also behind Scrubs—returning Jason Sudeikis as the earnest coach. The preview notes, 'the biggest names in reboots seem most likely to please the thirtysomethings.'
January kicks off with Netflix's Bridgerton season 4 on January 29 and Fox's Next Level Chef season 5 on January 29. February brings the Winter Olympics opening on NBC February 6 and Super Bowl LX on NBC February 8, alongside new series like The Lincoln Lawyer season 4 on Netflix February 5. March features Tracker's return on CBS March 1 and Outlander season 8 finale on Starz March 6. April includes Euphoria season 3 on HBO April 12 and The Boys season 5 finale on Prime Video April 8. Later months see Sweet Magnolias season 5 on Netflix June 11.
Many shows, especially from Netflix, list 'TBA' dates but are expected to debut within the year. The preview emphasizes updates will follow as more details emerge, promising a full slate of entertainment options.
