Things To Watch On HBO Max: The Picks Families Discuss
Things to Watch on HBO Max: A Better Shortlist
The best things to watch on HBO Max right now include The Pitt (the 2025 Emmy-winning medical drama), Succession (the critically acclaimed corporate drama), House of the Dragon Season 2, The Last of Us, Euphoria, Hacks, The White Lotus, and new 2026 releases like Rooster, Task, and The Dark Wizard documentary series.
Top 10 HBO Max Shows for 2026
For viewers seeking premium storytelling, HBO Max delivers an unmatched library of award-winning content. The platform currently hosts 53 top-rated shows as of May 2026, with new originals premiering weekly.
- The Pitt (2025-) - Medical drama that won Emmy for Best Drama; set in Pittsburgh ER
- Succession (2018-2023) - Corporate family drama with 59 Emmy wins total
- House of the Dragon (2022-) - Game of Thrones prequel; Season 3 premieres June 21, 2026
- The Last of Us (2023-) - Post-apocalyptic drama based on viral video game
- Euphoria (2019-) - Visually striking teen drama; Season 2 now available
- Hacks (2021-) - Comedy about veteran comedian and young writer
- The White Lotus (2021-) - Satirical anthology set at luxury resorts
- Task (2025-) - Crime drama from Mare of Easttown creator Brad Ingelsby
- Rooster - Comfort comedy from Bill Lawrence about college nostalgia
- The Dark Wizard - Documentary on free climber Dean Potter
New Releases Coming in June 2026
Streaming enthusiasts should mark their calendars for significant premieres arriving this month. HBO Originals dominate the June lineup with highly anticipated seasons.
- June 1 - Bring Me the Beauties: A Model Cult (HBO Original documentary)
- June 5 - The Topurias (HBO Original)
- June 7 - Earth, Wind & Fire concert special (HBO Original)
- June 12 - Proud Season 1 (HBO Original)
- June 15 - Rick and Morty Season 9 (Adult Swim)
- June 21 - House of the Dragon Season 3 (HBO Original)
- June 26 - Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness Season 1 (Larry David sketch comedy)
Content Quality Comparison by Genre
| Genre | Top Show | Emmy Wins | Rotten Tomatoes Score | Seasons Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drama | The Pitt | 1 (2025) | 94% | 1 |
| Drama | Succession | 59 (total) | 98% | 4 |
| Fantasy | House of the Dragon | 24 | 85% | 2 |
| Comedy | Hacks | 16 | 97% | 3 |
| Anthology | The White Lotus | 12 | 93% | 2 |
| Horror | The Last of Us | 23 | 96% | 1 |
| Teen Drama | Euphoria | 15 | 83% | 2 |
| Crime | Task | 0 (new) | 89% | 1 |
Documentary and Unscripted Highlights
HBO Max has expanded beyond prestige drama with compelling documentary programming. The platform now features flexible unscripted content appealing to diverse audiences.
Telemarketers offers a fascinating glimpse into the telemarketing industry, beginning with Sam Lipman-Stern's experiences at a New Jersey call center in the early 2000s. Hard Knocks: In Season with the NFC East premiered in 2025, following the Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, and Washington Commanders. Alex vs. A-Rod (November 6, 2025) delves into Alex Rodriguez's life through candid interviews.
Why HBO Max Stands Out in 2026
Despite Warner Bros. facing acquisition by Paramount-Skydash, HBO remains as solid as ever in 2026 with multiple acclaimed dramas and comedies keeping subscribers engaged. The platform boasts an unrivaled array of top-tier programming across enormous genre variety, from gritty crime sagas to light-hearted children's fantasy.
HBO Max Originals are changing the game every week with innovative content, while third-party content from Sesame Workshop, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, and Comedy Central expands appeal. The service excels at treating audiences with outstanding film and television selections, gearing up for spectacular 2026 releases.
Helpful tips and tricks for Things To Watch On Hbo Max The Picks Families Discuss
What is the best new show on HBO Max in 2026?
The Pitt is the best new show, having debuted in 2025 and recently clinched the Emmy for Best Drama. Its realistic medical drama setting in a Pittsburgh ER has earned critical acclaim with a 94% Rotten Tomatoes score.
When does House of the Dragon Season 3 premiere?
House of the Dragon Season 3 premieres on June 21, 2026 on HBO Max. This highly anticipated fantasy sequel continues the Targaryen civil war storyline.
Is Succession still available to stream?
Yes, Succession remains fully available on HBO Max with all 4 seasons. The corporate drama won 59 Emmy awards total and maintains a 98% Rotten Tomatoes score.
What comedy shows are on HBO Max?
Top comedy options include Hacks (16 Emmy wins, 97% RT), Rooster (new 2026 Bill Lawrence comfort comedy), The White Lotus (satirical anthology), and Larry David's new sketch series Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness premiering June 26, 2026.
Are there HBO Original documentaries worth watching?
Yes, HBO Max features excellent documentaries including The Dark Wizard (about free climber Dean Potter), Telemarketers, Hard Knocks: In Season with the NFC East, and Bring Me the Beauties: A Model Cult premiering June 1, 2026.
