Here Are the Best TV Shows to Stream this Weekend on HBO Max, Including ‘Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking’

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Want to find your next binge-worthy show? Here are ten new and interesting series that just became available on Max this week. We’ve sorted through the new releases for you, so you can skip the endless scrolling and jump right into spooky stories, sports documentaries, cooking competitions, funny animated shows, and shows about building amazing things.

‘IT: Welcome to Derry’ (2025–)

This series, a prequel to the ‘It’ films, takes place in 1962 and reveals the terrifying origins of Pennywise and the dark history of Derry. Created by Andy and Barbara Muschietti and Jason Fuchs, the show is led by showrunners Fuchs and Brad Caleb Kane, with a score by Benjamin Wallfisch. The cast features Jovan Adepo, Taylour Paige, Chris Chalk, James Remar, and Bill Skarsgård reprising his role as Pennywise. The story delves into events like the Black Spot fire and expands on the larger world Stephen King created, with Andy Muschietti directing several episodes.

‘Alex vs ARod’ (2025)

This sports docuseries, in three parts, tells the story of Alex Rodriguez – from his early success to the controversies he faced and how he rebuilt his image. Featuring new interviews and old footage, director Gotham Chopra explores Rodriguez’s life through the eyes of those who knew him best – teammates, coaches, reporters, and family. The series covers his suspensions, the intense media attention he received, and what happened after he stopped playing baseball. It offers a look at the difference between the public persona of ‘A-Rod’ and the private life of Alex, examining his drive and how he took responsibility for his actions.

‘Haha, You Clowns’ (2025–)

This heartwarming series begins with a father and his three teenage sons adjusting to life after loss. It’s a realistic and funny look at grief, growing up, and the everyday struggles of family life. The show focuses on how they support each other and move forward, with a strong emphasis on the relationships between all the characters.

‘Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking’ (2024–)

Skilled pastry chefs create amazing desserts on sets inspired by the Wizarding World, with James and Oliver Phelps hosting and familiar faces from the ‘Harry Potter’ films making appearances. Judges evaluate the desserts based on how well they’re made, how they taste, and how creatively they’re presented, focusing on large, detailed creations that tell a story. The challenges frequently include complex chocolate designs, delicate sugar work, and themes drawn from magical creatures, spells, and famous scenes. Each episode combines technical baking skills with fun, imaginative prompts based on the world of Harry Potter.

‘In the Eye of the Storm’ (2024–)

This documentary series uses videos from people who experienced extreme weather events – like tornadoes, hurricanes, and wildfires – along with emergency recordings to recreate what happened. It features interviews with survivors, first responders, and weather experts who explain how decisions were made and how people prepared. Each episode follows a disaster from beginning to end, showing how the situation worsened and how different organizations worked to help. The series highlights both the personal stories of those affected and the scientific details of the weather itself.

‘Expedition Files’ (2024–)

Josh Gates returns to well-known mysteries – like unexplained disappearances and strange objects – using new interviews and the latest scientific methods. He carefully reviews original documents, explores different theories, and gets input from experts in fields like crime investigation, space exploration, and history. The show aims to distinguish between myth and proven facts, and uncover new clues. This detailed, case-by-case approach enhances Gates’ worldwide adventures.

‘Let’s Go, Bananas!’ (2024–)

This funny, animated series tells short stories about the everyday lives of three families, as seen through the eyes of their kids. Created by Tim Bain and Dustin Ferrer, each episode is fast-paced and full of energy, using quick edits, silly visuals, and catchy music. The show highlights how kids think and come up with creative solutions to common problems, and the voice actors deliver their lines with a comedic timing similar to a sketch show.

‘Build for Off Road’ (2024–)

Ian Johnson builds and tests off-road vehicles, from rock crawlers to high-speed pre-runners, explaining his choices for parts like engines and suspension. Each episode shows detailed, easy-to-follow instructions for modifications like body changes, building custom frames, and upgrading axles and transfer cases. He sometimes teams up with experts – like Factory Five Racing – for bigger projects. Finally, every vehicle is put to the test on challenging trails to prove its performance and durability.

‘Wardens of the North’ (2023–)

This series follows Michigan conservation officers as they work to protect the state’s natural resources and people. Each episode combines real-time patrols with in-depth investigations of illegal activities like poaching and off-road violations, as well as dramatic backcountry rescues. Viewers will see how officers handle cases throughout the year – from checking ice fishermen to ensuring safety in bear country – and learn about their work collecting evidence, following procedures, and connecting with the community. Many episodes follow a case from the first report all the way to the final outcome in court.

‘Tom & Jerry Gokko’ (2022–)

These new ‘Tom and Jerry’ cartoons are made in Japan and stay true to the original’s fast-paced, funny style. They focus on simple situations and visual gags, with perfect comedic timing, much like the classic episodes. Japanese animators have added their own flair with energetic pacing and expressive animation, while keeping the humor mostly silent. Each short is quick and centers on the never-ending chase between Tom and Jerry.

Tell us what you’re streaming first—and which new arrival surprised you—down in the comments!

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2025-11-08 06:45