All the TV Shows Coming to HBO Max in January 2026

Max is launching a packed schedule of shows in January 2026, with something for everyone. The month starts with popular home improvement and lifestyle programs, then moves into gripping documentaries and exciting new developments in established fantasy worlds. Expect fresh episodes and brand-new series across a variety of genres, including true crime, cartoons, and competitive reality shows. This wide range of content means Max subscribers will have plenty to watch all month long.

‘Lakefront Bargain Hunt Renovation’ (2017)

Starting January 2nd, ‘Lakefront Bargain Hunt Renovation’ is back! The show features homeowners turning affordable properties on the water into beautiful getaways. Each episode follows the ups and downs of their renovations, with expert advice on getting the most value while keeping those stunning lake views. You’ll see the finished, revitalized homes at the end of every episode.

‘The Cult of the Real Housewife’ (2026)

Premiering on January 2nd, ‘The Cult of the Real Housewife’ is a documentary series that looks at how the ‘Real Housewives’ franchise has become a cultural phenomenon with a dedicated following. The series explores the show’s influence on trends and people’s lives, featuring interviews with critics and passionate fans. It also examines the controversies that have shaped the brand over time.

‘Home Town’ (2016)

Beginning January 5th, ‘Home Town’ returns with Ben and Erin Napier continuing their work restoring beautiful, historic homes in Mississippi. They focus on bringing these properties back to life using local materials and time-honored techniques, all while keeping the homes’ original charm. Each episode features a new family searching for their dream home and a sense of belonging in a close-knit community. The show celebrates the power of community and the unique style of modern Southern renovation.

‘The Cult Behind the Killer: The Andrea Yates Story’ (2026)

On January 6th, a new documentary series called ‘The Cult Behind the Killer: The Andrea Yates Story’ will explore the heartbreaking case of Andrea Yates. The series delves into the religious beliefs and mental health struggles that contributed to the tragedy, using fresh interviews and old footage. It aims to provide a complete picture of the events and examine the broader issues surrounding the case, including societal shortcomings and the impact of extreme beliefs.

‘Haunted Hospitals’ (2018)

“Haunted Hospitals” premieres in January, delving into frightening paranormal experiences reported at hospitals around the globe. The show features real stories from doctors, nurses, and patients who believe they’ve encountered ghosts or other supernatural beings. These stories are brought to life through dramatic reenactments, and the series also explores the historical background of each location and the spirits rumored to haunt it. It’s a blend of history and horror that investigates strange events happening in medical facilities.

‘Baking Championship: Next Gen’ (2026)

As a long-time viewer of baking competitions, I have to say ‘Baking Championship: Next Gen,’ which premieres January 6th, is a really welcome addition to the genre. It’s not just another baking show – this one focuses on a new generation of seriously talented young bakers. Each week, they’ll be facing off in themed challenges designed to push their skills to the limit, both technically and creatively. The judging is tough but fair, and we’ll see bakers eliminated as they strive for the grand prize. Honestly, it’s refreshing to see a show that really spotlights up-and-coming culinary stars – it brings a fantastic energy to the whole format.

‘1000-lb Sisters’ (2020)

The new season of ‘1000-lb Sisters’ premieres January 7th, continuing to follow Amy and Tammy Slaton as they work towards better health. The show documents their weight loss journey and their attempts to qualify for surgery. Viewers will see the sisters face both triumphs and difficulties as they deal with family issues and health problems, offering a personal look at the challenges of obesity and the process of getting better.

‘Moonshiners’ (2011)

Starting January 7th, ‘Moonshiners’ returns with more stories about the world of illegal spirit-making in the Appalachian Mountains. The show follows those who carry on this long-held tradition, revealing how they make their liquor and avoid the authorities. We’ll see how competition between distillers creates challenges for everyone involved, and get a look inside a secretive culture that has survived for many years.

‘Wildcard Kitchen’ (2024)

Premiering January 7th, ‘Wildcard Kitchen’ is a new cooking competition where chefs are constantly challenged to think on their feet. They’ll face surprise twists and random ingredients, forcing them to change their plans and get creative in the kitchen. The show tests not only their culinary skills, but also their speed and ability to perform under pressure, all while being judged by a rotating group of expert chefs.

‘Nevada Wild’ (2025)

“Nevada Wild” debuts January 7th, showcasing the incredible wildlife and dramatic scenery of Nevada. The series follows how different animals survive in the state’s harsh environments, from towering mountains to dry plains. Beautiful filming captures the region’s natural beauty and the environmental issues it faces, offering both an informative and visually stunning look at a special part of America’s natural world.

‘Expedition X’ (2020)

Starting January 8th, ‘Expedition X’ is back with new investigations into strange mysteries and possible paranormal events in far-off places. The team uses both cutting-edge technology and historical records to get to the bottom of local legends. Each episode features a new location, where the crew talks to people who’ve experienced unusual things and spends the night searching for answers. The show tries to connect scientific investigation with the unexplained.

‘Real PD: Kansas City’ (2021)

Starting January 8th, ‘Real PD: Kansas City’ will give viewers an inside look at the work of law enforcement in Missouri. The series follows police officers as they handle emergencies and investigate crimes as they happen. It’s a raw and honest portrayal of the difficulties and risks police officers face every day, focusing on the personal stories behind the news headlines in a city environment.

‘The Pitt’ (2025)

Premiering January 8th, ‘The Pitt’ is a new medical drama offering a realistic look inside a Pittsburgh hospital. Starring Noah Wyle, the show follows the dedicated doctors and nurses who face critical, life-or-death challenges daily. It explores the stresses they experience both at work and in their personal lives, offering an honest and unflinching depiction of modern healthcare in a city environment.

‘Ugliest House in America’ (2022)

The show ‘Ugliest House in America’ is back January 8th, with host Retta searching the country for the most eye-sore homes. Homeowners enter their properties for a chance to win a complete professional makeover to fix their design disasters. The series showcases strange buildings, bad decorating choices, and DIY projects gone wrong. At the end of each season, one homeowner gets their house completely transformed.

‘My Strange Addiction’ (2010)

Premiering January 8th, ‘My Strange Addiction’ explores the lives of people battling unusual compulsions, both physical and behavioral. The show offers a sensitive but honest portrayal of how these addictions affect their relationships and well-being. Throughout the series, experts and therapists provide support and insight to help participants understand and cope with their challenges. It’s a compelling look at the limits of human behavior.

‘House Hunters International’ (2006)

As a total movie buff, I love shows that let me travel without leaving my couch, and ‘House Hunters International’ is perfect for that! It follows people as they try to find a place to live in different countries, which is fascinating. Each episode really dives into what the housing market is like in these places, and how different cultures affect what people look for in a home. You see them trying to figure out what they want versus what they can actually afford and what’s even available. It’s like a virtual tour of homes and lifestyles around the world – I highly recommend it!

‘Industry’ (2020)

On January 11th, the series ‘Industry’ returns with a look into the competitive world of international finance. The show centers on recent college graduates vying for full-time jobs at a top London investment bank. It explores themes of drive, morality in the workplace, and figuring out who you are, all within a highly demanding and ruthless setting. ‘Industry’ is known for its fast-paced plot and realistic depiction of the financial world.

‘Love & Marriage Huntsville’ (2019)

The popular series ‘Love & Marriage: Huntsville’ is back January 11th, offering a look into the lives of thriving African American couples in Alabama. The show follows a group of friends who are also working to improve their city through real estate. It explores the challenges of juggling relationships, careers, and maintaining a good reputation in a close community, and viewers will see both the ups and downs of their shared experiences.

‘Unexplained: Caught on Camera’ (2019)

Premiering January 11th, ‘Unexplained: Caught on Camera’ explores baffling videos filmed by everyday people on their phones, security systems, and drones. Experts and those who witnessed the events break down each clip, trying to find a logical explanation. The show covers a wide range of mysteries – from possible UFOs and ghostly apparitions to unusual happenings in nature – and encourages viewers to decide for themselves what they believe.

‘Totally Spies!’ (2002)

Get ready for more ‘Totally Spies!’ – the show is back on January 11th, introducing Sam, Alex, and Clover’s exciting adventures to a new audience. This animated series features three teenage girls from Beverly Hills who lead double lives, juggling school with top-secret missions as international spies. Armed with cool gadgets and martial arts skills, they fight bad guys and save the world. It’s known for being a fun mix of action, comedy, and iconic early 2000s style.

‘Primal’ (2019)

Starting January 12th, you can watch ‘Primal,’ a beautiful and exciting animated series created by Genndy Tartakovsky. It’s set in prehistoric times and tells the story of a caveman and a dinosaur who become friends after both experiencing great loss. The show doesn’t rely much on words, instead using incredible animation and sound to show what’s happening and how the characters feel. It’s a powerful story about nature, loss, and the drive to survive.

‘Street Outlaws: No Prep Kings: The Great Eight (2022)

I’m so excited for ‘Street Outlaws: No Prep Kings: The Great 8’ coming January 13th! It’s all about the very best drivers from the ‘No Prep Kings’ series. They’re battling it out, just the top eight of them, for a huge cash prize. What I love is that it really shows how much skill these racers have when they’re competing on completely unprepared tracks. It’s a real look inside the intense world of underground drag racing, and I can’t wait to see who comes out on top!

‘The Curious Case of…’ (2025)

“The Curious Case of…” is a new documentary series starting January 13th that explores unsolved mysteries and legal puzzles. Each episode dives into a different case that has long confused people or authorities. Using fresh evidence and insights from experts, the show tries to shed light on these strange events and potentially offer answers. It’s perfect for fans of true crime and investigative reporting.

‘Street Outlaws: No Prep Kings’ (2018)

As a racing fan, I’m really excited ‘Street Outlaws: No Prep Kings’ is back January 13th! This season, they’ve got even more drivers hitting the road and battling it out on seriously rough, un-prepped tracks. The show gives you a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep these incredible cars running – it’s not just about speed, but all the work and strategy to handle those unpredictable surfaces. You really see how much these drivers push both their machines and themselves, because this kind of racing is raw, intense, and definitely carries some risk.

‘People Magazine Investigates’ (2016)

Starting January 13th, ‘People Magazine Investigates’ brings well-known true crime stories to life on screen, based on articles from the magazine. Each episode features interviews with those affected by the crimes, police involved in the investigations, and the reporters who originally covered the cases. The series aims to reveal fresh insights and offer a complete picture of these high-profile events, combining emotional storytelling with thorough reporting.

‘Suddenly Amish’ (2026)

Starting January 14th, ‘Suddenly Amish’ follows people who’ve decided to trade their modern lifestyles for life within an Amish community. The show examines the challenges they face adjusting to a simpler way of life, without technology or everyday comforts. To become fully accepted, participants have to demonstrate their dedication to the Amish faith and its traditional rules. It’s a fascinating look at people seeking a more meaningful and uncomplicated life.

‘Evil Lives Here’ (2016)

As a total movie and true crime buff, I’m really looking forward to the return of ‘Evil Lives Here’ on January 14th. What fascinates me about this series is that it doesn’t focus on the crimes themselves, but on the people who knew the killers before they became notorious. It’s incredibly unsettling to hear from family members, through really personal interviews, about the red flags they missed and how they’re still dealing with the shock of realizing someone they loved was capable of such awful things. It’s a truly chilling look at how easily we can be deceived and how complex human nature really is.

‘Hot Rod Garage’ (2014)

Premiering January 15th, ‘Hot Rod Garage’ showcases skilled builders who demonstrate how to create and customize powerful vehicles. The show dives into the details of car engineering, covering everything from engine replacements to unique body modifications. Each episode follows a car’s journey through a complete rebuild and upgrade process, making it essential viewing for anyone fascinated by how cars achieve speed and performance.

‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms’ (2026)

As a huge fan of ‘Game of Thrones’, I’m really excited about ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: The Hedge Knight’ which is coming out on January 18th! It’s a prequel set about a hundred years before the original show, and it follows the story of Ser Duncan the Tall and his squire, Egg. It’s based on George R.R. Martin’s novellas and promises a more down-to-earth look at Westeros during the time of the Targaryens. From what I’ve read, it’s going to delve into ideas of chivalry, honor, and how the Seven Kingdoms were really starting to take shape.

‘Street Outlaws: Locals Only’ (2023)

I just got a look at ‘Street Outlaws: Locals Only,’ and it’s a fun ride. The show drops on January 20th and basically takes the established ‘Street Outlaws’ crew on the road, hitting different cities to find the best local racers. What I really liked is that it’s not just about the pros; the winners get a shot at a big cash prize, and the whole thing really highlights the tight-knit racing communities you find all over the country. It’s a great way to discover some seriously talented drivers you’ve probably never heard of – these aren’t the usual suspects, and that’s what makes it exciting!

‘Real Time with Bill Maher’ (2003)

Bill Maher’s ‘Real Time’ is back for a new season on January 23rd, offering sharp and funny commentary on the latest news and political issues. Each week, the show brings together guests with different viewpoints to discuss what’s happening in the world. Maher finishes each episode with his popular ‘New Rules’ segment, which combines humor and insightful criticism. The show continues to be a popular choice for late-night viewers who want an honest and unfiltered look at American society.

‘My Haunted Hometown’ (2024)

“My Haunted Hometown” premieres January 23rd and delves into the spooky stories and local legends that make certain American towns unique. The show features residents sharing their firsthand accounts of paranormal activity and the history behind the haunted places. It examines how these tales shape a town’s identity and how it’s perceived by others, blending traditional folklore with current-day ghost hunting.

‘Have I Got News for You’ (2024)

The American version of the popular British comedy show ‘Have I Got News for You’ premieres on January 25th. The show features comedians and well-known personalities who compete by answering questions about current events and pop culture. It’s a funny, satirical take on the week’s news, poking fun at politicians and the media. Ultimately, it offers a humorous way to look at the often-crazy news cycle.

Please share your thoughts on these upcoming January releases in the comments.

2026-01-09 01:49