Netflix Revives Major Franchises in 2026
▼ Summary
– Netflix’s 2026 lineup indicates a continued focus on blockbuster franchises, despite the recent conclusion of major series like *Stranger Things* and *Squid Game*.
– The *Stranger Things* franchise will continue with a behind-the-scenes documentary in January 2025 and an animated spinoff, *Tales From ’85*, in 2026.
– The 2026 film slate is quieter, highlighted by *Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man*, *Enola Holmes 3*, and Greta Gerwig’s *Narnia* adaptation.
– A major focus for Netflix in 2026 is its push into live programming, including events like a *Star Search* revival, a live skyscraper climb, and awards shows.
– The announced 2026 slate is preliminary, as Netflix will likely announce or delay more content throughout the year.
The year 2026 is shaping up to be a significant one for Netflix, as the streaming giant strategically balances its future with a powerful look back. Following the conclusion of flagship hits like Stranger Things and Squid Game, the platform is turning to its deep bench of major franchises to keep audiences engaged. While the company explores new ventures in live events and gaming, its upcoming slate reveals a clear commitment to reviving beloved properties that have defined its success.
Fans of the supernatural drama from Hawkins, Indiana, have more to anticipate. Although the main narrative concluded, Stranger Things will extend its reach with a behind-the-scenes documentary for the final season, arriving in January. Furthermore, an animated spinoff series, Tales From ‘85, is officially slated for a 2026 debut, promising to expand the universe in a new format.
The film calendar, while less crowded, features several high-profile returns. The cinematic universe of Peaky Blinders continues with The Immortal Man, hitting theaters in March before streaming later that month. Summer brings the return of the detective prodigy in Enola Holmes 3, and the holiday season will see acclaimed director Greta Gerwig’s fresh interpretation of The Chronicles of Narnia, with a theatrical run preceding its Netflix premiere.
A notable shift in strategy is the aggressive expansion into live programming. This initiative kicks off quickly with the premiere of a revived Star Search in January, followed closely by a daring live broadcast of a skyscraper climb. Major televised events like the SAG-AFTRA Actor Awards in March will join existing partnerships with the WWE and NFL, alongside a newly announced deal to stream MLB games, solidifying Netflix as a destination for appointment viewing.
The gaming segment remains a quieter area of development for now. The only confirmed upcoming title is an untitled FIFA game, which will join the platform’s growing library of interactive television games. It is important to view this early-year lineup as a preliminary sketch. As 2026 progresses, Netflix will undoubtedly announce additional series, films, and special events, with the potential for some currently scheduled projects to shift their release dates. The overall picture, however, is one of a service leveraging its past hits to build a robust future.
(Source: The Verge)
