All the TV Shows Coming to HBO Max in October 2025

October delivers a new selection of TV shows on HBO Max, featuring a little bit of everything – from realistic family dramas and fun animated series to suspenseful true crime stories and exciting international thrillers. If you enjoy touching family tales like the one in ‘Sister WivesSmiling Friends

Whether it’s facing extreme survival challenges in ‘Largados e Pelados Brasil’ or exploring the unexplained in ‘Expedition X’, this month offers a wide range of stories to captivate you. New shows premiere weekly, making it a great time to relax with some popcorn and find your next favorite series-one that combines learning, fun, and thrilling suspense.

‘Good Cop/Bad Cop’ (2025)

Brothers Lou Hickman and Henry Hickman are detectives working in the quiet town of Eden Vale. They investigate unusual cases, often with few resources, all while trying to repair their complicated relationship with each other and their father-who also happens to be the police chief. The comedic crime drama, created by John Quaintance, first aired on February 19, 2025, on The CW and Stan in Australia, offering a mix of laughs and mystery. Leighton Meester plays the experienced detective Lou, and Luke Cook stars as her somewhat clumsy brother Henry, highlighting how different their approaches to detective work are. The show blends humor and crime-solving.

Clancy Brown portrays the commanding chief, and Devon Terrell delivers a nuanced performance, enriching the show’s family relationships. Episodes are directed by filmmakers like Trent O’Donnell, including the pilot, ‘Peace in the Valley’, which begins with a robbery that escalates into a murder investigation. The writing team, headed by Quaintance, creates clever conversations and intriguing plot developments, using the atmosphere of a small town and the tension between siblings to tell compelling stories. The result is an engaging and well-crafted series. It’s a compelling blend of character study and procedural drama.

‘Eva Longoria: Searching for Spain’ (2025)

Eva Longoria takes a flavorful journey through Spain, visiting cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and San Sebastian. She explores how food, culture, and the people she meets connect to her Mexican-American roots. This eight-part series, a CNN Original Series production, showcases the diverse tastes of Spain, from the cutting-edge cooking of Basque Country to the rugged beauty of Galicia. The series premieres on April 27, 2025, and includes conversations with renowned chefs such as Ferran Adrià and Victor Arguinzoniz. It’s a deep dive into regional flavors and cultural connections.

Eva Longoria both hosts and executive produces the show, featuring guests such as Lucia Freitas who showcase incredible cooking skills. The directors beautifully film the various locations, ranging from the tapas bars of Andalusia to the seafood traditions of Asturias. The writers craft the story around personal family histories, combining a travel show with touching explorations of Spain’s rich and varied culture.

‘My Happy Place’ (2025)

Hosted by a rotating group of well-known faces – including Alan Cumming, Taraji P. Henson, Simu Liu, and Billy Porter – this series takes viewers on a journey as the hosts return to places that are important to their past. They’ll share personal stories and memories that have influenced who they are today. This unscripted travel show focuses on these emotional experiences in a variety of locations, giving us a look at what shaped each host. Created for a 2025 launch, it blends touching personal narratives with beautiful scenery.

Every host leads the episodes, sharing personal experiences to make them feel genuine. The directors prioritize close-up, personal filming styles, and the writers craft questions designed to encourage honest and heartfelt stories. This approach emphasizes common ideas about personal development and fond memories, viewed through different cultural perspectives.

‘Krypto Saves the Day!’ (2025)

Krypto, Superman’s incredibly powerful dog, gets into funny and often messy situations while trying to help people in Metropolis. He mixes doing heroic things with typical dog behavior, such as chasing birds or rescuing school buses. These animated shorts were created by Ryan Kramer to connect with the 2025 ‘Superman’ movie reboot, and are produced by Warner Bros. Animation and DC Studios. They first appeared on August 8, 2025, with an episode titled ‘School Bus Scuffle’. The voice actors include brief, non-speaking appearances by Clark Kent.

Producers Michael Baum and Kramer are in charge of the playful, family-friendly stories, really highlighting Krypto’s powers and creating lighthearted, funny situations. Directors such as David Gemmill keep the action moving quickly, and the writers create amusing, silly adventures that aren’t overly complicated, prioritizing entertainment and playful trouble.

‘The Friday the 13th Murders’ (2025)

This documentary series takes a close look at actual tragic events that happened on Friday the 13th. Through detailed stories and the knowledge of experts, it explores the unsettling history behind the world’s most dreaded day. The series examines historical cases connected to this unlucky date, showing how misfortune and crime seem to follow it. Premiering on October 2, 2025, the show relies solely on true events – there are no made-up stories. Learn more about the investigation.

The show relies on explanations from people involved, such as narrators and forensic analysts, rather than a recurring group of actors. Filmmakers piece together old videos and recreated scenes, and the writing team organizes each episode by what happened when, and explores how superstition affected people’s thinking.

‘The Real Murders on Elm Street’ (2024)

This series takes a look at murder investigations that happened on Elm Streets throughout the United States, showing how seemingly normal neighborhoods became scenes of terrible crimes – including multiple killings, torture, and acts of revenge. Each episode focuses on specific cases, such as the Gustafson murders or incidents where victims were attacked by people who secretly entered their homes, and uses evidence from police files and interviews with people who witnessed the events. It will premiere in 2024 on Investigation Discovery, exploring the connection between these actual crimes and the famous street name. It’s a chilling look at the darkness that can hide behind closed doors, and how quickly things can escalate.

The show includes interviews with detectives and family members, alongside dramatizations featuring actors such as Adam Chisnall. Directors skillfully blend different time periods, and the writing highlights key moments in the investigation and the impact these disturbing events had on the community.

‘Mysteries of the Abandoned’ (2017)

Around the world, explorers investigate abandoned engineering feats, figuring out what led to the downfall of places like ocean forts, deserted towns, and isolated buildings. They use historical research and firsthand exploration to understand these ruins. The series, featuring experts such as Rob Bell, revisits these projects to reveal hidden stories and ongoing restoration attempts. First airing in 2017 on Science Channel, it showcases locations across the globe with compelling storytelling.

I absolutely love how Kasper Michaels and Dominic Selwood consistently deliver fantastic commentary, and it’s always great to hear from the guest historians too! The directors really know how to create a spooky atmosphere, and the writers are brilliant at mixing real engineering details with a compelling, mysterious story – it all makes for such engaging explorations. It’s a winning combination!

‘Where We Call Home’ (2020)

This show features homeowners and designers sharing how they’ve turned unusual buildings – like old factories, historic churches, and even railway stations – into beautiful, modern homes all over North America. The HGTV series showcases clever renovations that combine practicality with a building’s original charm. Examples include a 65,000-square-foot factory in Geneva, New York, transformed into a spacious family loft, and an art-filled retreat in San Antonio that skillfully blends old and new design elements. It’s all about creative transformations! And seeing how people make these spaces their own.

Each episode showcases unique homes in various settings, like a house on Kauai that creatively uses a rescued school bus and a treehouse blended into Hawaii’s natural beauty. The show, which first aired in 2020, highlights clever design ideas and the strong emotional connections people form with their renovated homes.

‘Smiling Friends’ (2020)

At Smiling Friends Inc., employees like the cheerful Pim Pimling and the pessimistic Charlie Dompler handle strange requests from people, all in an effort to bring joy to a very odd world. The adult animated series was created by Zach Hadel and Michael Cusack for Adult Swim and first aired on April 1, 2020. Some episodes include ‘The Smiling Friends Go to Brazil!’. Michael Cusack voices Pim, and Zach Hadel voices Charlie.

The project also features voice work by Marc M. as Mr. Boss, and appearances from familiar faces like Tom Fulp. The directors manage the lively animation, and the writers create delightfully strange storylines that mix both dark comedy and touching scenes.

‘Alex vs America’ (2022)

In cooking competitions, Iron Chef Alex Guarnaschelli goes head-to-head with talented chefs from different areas. These challengers try to win cash prizes by choosing ingredients and setting time limits that take advantage of her known weaknesses. The Food Network series, which began in 2022 and is hosted by Eric Adjepong, focuses on blind tastings and showcases a wide range of cooking styles, including dishes centered around ingredients like eggs or rice.

As a total food TV fanatic, I love watching shows where judges like Jet Tila and Claudette Zepeda really put the contestants through their paces. It’s fascinating to see chefs from all over – this season they’ve got people from places like California and Kansas! And behind the scenes, it’s a whole other world. The directors are there capturing all the high-stakes kitchen drama, but the writers are clever – they build the competition format to be exciting without ever *telling* anyone what’s going to happen. It’s all about skill and pressure!

‘Baylen Out Loud’ (2025)

TikTok personality Baylen Dupree is learning to live on her own while managing Tourette syndrome. She receives support from her large family – her parents, five siblings, and her fiancé, Colin Dooley, who serves in the Air Force. The new TLC reality show first aired on January 13, 2025, and features highlights such as her appearance at Tic Con and her engagement, which happened on September 9, 2024.

Dupree plays herself in the show, and people like Dooley, Julie, and Allen help tell her story. The directors capture everyday events, and the writers build each episode around Dupree’s unique way of speaking and her desire to be independent.

‘VGLY’ (2023)

The world of Latin urban music is fiercely competitive, and this story dives into the hardships, backstabbing, and dreams of up-and-coming artists. Created for Max by Marcos Bucay, Alejandro Castro Cisneros, Gabriela Remirez de Estenoz, Santiago Espejo, and Jorge Tijerina, it first aired on May 25, 2023.

Benny Emmanuel provides the voice for the main character, Vgly, alongside Crystal Lopez as Esther and Sasha González in other key roles. The directors emphasized the natural and authentic acting, and lead writer Jorge Tijerina developed compelling storylines centered around achieving fame and dealing with its consequences.

‘Lu & the Bally Bunch’ (2023)

Meet Lu, a sweet little ladybug, as she begins preschool alongside her friends Barnaby, Biba, Declan, Elodie, and Gus! This show follows their adventures as they learn about friendships, express their feelings, and enjoy playtime, all set in a bright and colorful world of bugs. Little Ladybug Lu was created, written, and directed by Nicky Phelan for Cartoonito, and first aired in New Zealand on March 17, 2023.

The voice cast features Freya McLaughlin as Lu, Joy Tú Clarke as Biba, and Marcus Power as Declan. The series includes songs and teaches valuable lessons about sharing, and Phelan’s animation style focuses on sweet and relatable everyday experiences.

‘Bugs Bunny Builders’ (2022)

I’m a huge fan of Looney Builders! It’s about Bugs Bunny and his crew taking on the silliest construction projects in Looneyburg. They use all sorts of vehicles and really learn the importance of teamwork while they’re at it. It’s made by Warner Bros. Animation for Cartoonito, and it first aired on July 25, 2022. Eric Bauza does a fantastic job voicing Bugs, and Chandni Parekh is perfect as Lola!

The supporting actors feature Bob Bergen as Porky and Keith Ferguson as Daffy. The directors, along with the rest of the team, concentrate on humor that’s appropriate for young children. Meanwhile, the writers weave stories with good lessons into the fast-paced, energetic action.

‘Bering Sea Gold’ (2012)

In Nome, Alaska, Norton Sound dredgers search for gold in the shallow waters, facing tough weather and frequent equipment problems as they work each season. The show, which began airing on Discovery Channel in January 2012 and is produced by Original Productions, follows captains such as Shawn Pomrenke and Emily Riedel.

As a total film buff, I was really impressed with the team behind this one! Kris Kelly is part of the crew, and I love that Mike Rowe lends his voice as the narrator. The directors did an amazing job filming those incredibly icy dives – talk about breathtaking! And the writers? They really knew how to build tension, narrating both the high-stakes chases and all the complex relationships between the characters. It all just came together so well.

‘Impractical Jokers’ (2011)

Close friends Q, Sal, Murr, and Joe push each other to complete ridiculous challenges involving hidden cameras. The person who fails each dare receives a humiliating punishment. This show, created by the Tenderloins for truTV, first aired on December 15, 2011, and has run for over 10 seasons, delivering plenty of improv comedy.

The show features the four stars playing versions of themselves, alongside producers such as Casey Jost. Directors capture their unscripted, public behavior, and writers create increasingly challenging pranks and consequences on the fly.

‘The Chair Company’ (2025)

After a humiliating incident at work, William Ronald Trosper finds himself caught up in a huge and bizarre conspiracy within a corporation. This series, created by Tim Robinson and Zach Kanin for HBO, will debut on October 12, 2025. It consists of eight episodes, released weekly, and is directed by Andrew DeYoung and Aaron Schimberg.

The film features Jesse Plemons as Trosper, alongside Lake Bell as Barb Trosper, Sophia Lillis, Will Price, Joseph Tudisco, and Lou Diamond Phillips. Adam McKay and Todd Schulman serve as executive producers, combining the styles of sketch comedy and a thriller.

‘Graveyard Carz’ (2012)

At Mark Worman’s shop in Oregon, skilled mechanics bring classic 1960s and 1970s Mopar muscle cars back to life. They follow the philosophy “It’s Mopar or No Car”, carefully repairing bodies and completely rebuilding engines. The show, produced by The Division since 2011 for MotorTrend, also includes playful pranks during the restoration process.

The cast features Worman, Royal Yoakum, Will Scott, and Allysa Rose. The directors skillfully filmed the humorous happenings in the shop, and the writers developed funny stories based on real repair work.

‘Mother, May I Murder?’ (2023)

I was absolutely gripped watching this series! It shows how the bond between a mother and child can tragically turn dark, leading to shocking stories of greed, revenge, and even cruelty. Investigation Discovery presented seven unbelievable cases, premiering in 2023, and it really gets under your skin. They used firsthand accounts from people who witnessed everything, along with archives, to piece together what happened. It’s a truly unsettling look at manipulation and murder happening all across America. Investigation Discovery really delivered with this one.

Analysts such as Anna C. Salter and Howard Safir offer their insights, using reenactments with actors to illustrate their points. Directors create detailed timelines of events, and writers focus on how relationships break down and families are torn apart, emphasizing the psychological impact of these betrayals.

‘7 Little Johnstons’ (2015)

The Johnston family – all members of whom have achondroplasia dwarfism – are pursuing typical American dreams. Parents Trent and Amber are raising their five children, all under the age of 16. The show, which first aired on TLC on January 6, 2015, follows their lives since 2013, documenting moves, school experiences, and important milestones.

As a film buff, I’m really intrigued by this project! It features the family – Trent, Amber, Jonah, Elizabeth, and the rest – playing themselves, which is always fascinating. The directors have taken a unique approach, filming their everyday, unscripted lives. It’s not about big drama, but about highlighting their resilience and the way they maintain a sense of normalcy, even through everything. I’m excited to see how that plays out on screen!

‘Beach Cottage Chronicles’ (2022)

Host Pia Malatesta explores beautiful waterfront cottages across North America, showcasing their unique designs, architecture, and the personal stories of the people who own them – stories of happiness and positive change. This Magnolia Network miniseries first aired in 2022, featuring locations from Malibu to Quebec.

As a total movie buff, I’ve been noticing a really cool trend lately. People are opening up and sharing their life stories, and filmmakers like Emmanuel Moran are beautifully capturing those moments with these incredibly peaceful visuals. It’s not just about recording, though – the writers are crafting these amazing stories that weave together family history and the process of restoring old places. It’s like a visual family album, but with a really artistic touch. It’s so compelling to watch!

‘Mr Mikami’s Classroom’ (2025)

After graduating from Tokyo University, Takashi Mikami begins working at the Ministry of Education with the goal of reforming Japan’s education system. However, he quickly encounters the challenges of dealing with bureaucracy and disagreements with those in power. This series, based on the work of Roba Shimori, first aired on TV Asahi on January 19, 2025. It’s a story about navigating the complexities of change within a rigid system and the frustrations that can arise.

The series features Tôri Matsuzaka as Mikami, alongside Riho Yoshioka, Daiken Okudaira, and Aju Makita. Yôhei Miyazaki directs several episodes, and Shimori is responsible for the storylines, which focus on characters undergoing change.

‘The Thaw’ (2022)

Detective Katarzyna Zawieja investigates the murder of a young woman and the disappearance of her newborn baby, found near the Odra River. She’s also dealing with her own sadness following the death of her husband. The series was created by Marta Szymanek for HBO Europe and first aired on April 1, 2022.

Katarzyna Wajda stars as Zawieja, alongside Bartlomiej Kotschedoff and Juliusz Chrzastowski. Director Xawery Żuławski and writer Szymanek create a story filled with suspenseful investigations.

‘Light of My Lion’ (2024)

Siblings Hiroto and Michito Komori-Michito has autism-take in a puzzling young boy named Lion, which throws their lives into disarray and reveals long-held family secrets. This series premieres on TBS in 2024 and delves into themes of connection and uncovered histories. It explores the bonds between family and the weight of the past.

Okay, so the cast is fantastic – we’ve got Yûya Yagira playing Hiroto, Ryôta Bandô as Michito, and Tasuku Satô absolutely killing it as Lion. What I really appreciate is how the directors are letting the characters’ feelings breathe, and the writers aren’t relying on big, flashy moments – instead, they’re delivering these really subtle, impactful revelations. It’s a smart approach, honestly. You can find more about the cast on their official website, if you’re interested.

‘Who Saw the Peacock Dance in the Jungle?’ (2025)

Following the Christmas Eve murder of her former police officer father, Komugi discovers a puzzling letter. With assistance from a lawyer, she begins to unravel a conspiracy, exposing hidden and disturbing secrets. This series is based on a manga by Asami Rito and was first broadcast by TV Asahi on January 23, 2025.

Madeleine Marie stars as Komugi, with direction from talents like Takahiro Aoyama. The writing team, led by Rito, crafts a compelling mystery using the backdrop of Tokyo and focusing on the relationships between characters.

‘Grand Maison Tokyo’ (2019)

Former celebrity chef Natsuki Obana, trying to rebuild his reputation, and ambitious Rinko Hayami team up to open a restaurant in Tokyo with the goal of earning three Michelin stars. However, their journey is complicated by past scandals. Ayuko Tsukahara directed this TBS series, which first aired on October 20, 2019.

The show features Takuya Kimura as Obana, Kyôka Suzuki as Hayami, and Aki Asakura in starring roles. The writers focus on intense competitions between chefs and stories about characters finding forgiveness and a second chance.

‘True Beauty’ (2024)

Teenager Im Ju-kyung uses makeup to boost her confidence and deal with her insecurities, becoming popular as she figures out love and learns to accept herself. The show, originally a tvN series from 2020-2021 based on Yaongyi’s webtoon, recently experienced a comeback in 2024. It’s a story about self-discovery and finding beauty within.

Moon Ga-young, playing Ju-kyung, stars alongside Cha Eun-woo and Hwang In-youp. Director Kim Sang-hyeop and the writing team create storylines focused on the ups and downs of growing up, with a romantic and comedic twist.

‘Ignite’ (2025)

New lawyer Ryo Uzaki is determined to find justice, fueled by the tragic death of his father. He throws himself into complex mysteries and investigations, often acting impulsively. This action-packed legal drama premieres April 18, 2025, on TV Asahi.

Shôtarô Mamiya and Moka Kamishiraishi are the leading actors. Episodes are directed by Fujii Michihito and Hara Hiroto, and the storylines delve into previously unknown pasts.

‘Vivant’ (2023)

Yusuke Nogi discovers a $90 million error in payments made to Balka, which leads him to uncover a worldwide network funded by terrorism, all stemming from a betrayal in the desert. The TBS series is written and directed by Katsuo Fukuzawa, and will first air on July 16, 2023. This complex case highlights international financial crime. The series promises a thrilling investigation.

The film stars Masato Sakai as Nogi, alongside Fumi Nikaidô and Hiroshi Abe. The producers have created a story filled with international mystery and unexpected twists.

‘Until I Destroy My Husband’s Family’ (2024)

After finding out her husband, Yudai, and Riko were trying to steal her inheritance, Minori Kisaragi begins planning her revenge. This series is based on the manga by Mana Akaishi and was first shown on TV Aichi on July 8, 2024.

The thriller features Marika Matsumoto as Minori and Terunosuke Takezai as Yudai in leading roles. Jin Ueda and Takehito Muroi direct the suspenseful storylines.

‘Holmes Family Rescue’ (2022)

Contractor Mike Holmes, along with his children Michael Jr. and Sherry, helps homeowners whose renovations have gone wrong. They correct dangerous problems, such as electrical issues. The show premiered on HGTV on December 4, 2021.

As a critic, I have to say the Holmes family really shines in this one, and they’re joined by some great guests, including Katie Hunt. What’s particularly compelling is how the directors really focus on showing growth and change – it’s not just about what people *can* do, but how they become experts in their field. It’s all about those transformations, and they’re captured beautifully.

‘Expedition X’ (2020)

Josh Gates sends Phil Torres and Heather Amaro to investigate strange happenings – like supernatural events, mysterious creatures (cryptids), and UFOs – in far-off places. This Discovery spin-off of ‘Expedition Unknown’ first aired on February 12, 2020.

Gates hosts, with Torres and Amaro investigating. Directors document eerie fieldwork and analyses.

‘Teen Titans Go!’ (2013)

In Jump City, superhero roommates like Robin, Cyborg, Starfire, Raven, and Beast Boy juggle saving the day with typical teenage fun. The show was created by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic for Cartoon Network and first aired on April 23, 2013.

The voice cast includes Scott Menville as Robin and Greg Cipes as Beast Boy. Directors, such as Horvath, skillfully blend comedy with action sequences.

‘IT: Welcome to Derry’ (2025)

The story begins in Derry, Maine, during the 1960s, where the townspeople are haunted by the terrifying Pennywise. This eventually leads to the events surrounding the Losers’ Club in the 1980s, further enriching Stephen King’s established universe. A new prequel series, created by Andy and Barbara Muschietti for HBO, is scheduled to debut on October 26, 2025.

Bill Skarsgård returns as Pennywise, joined by Jovan Adepo and Taylour Paige. The story’s frightening beginnings are penned by writers Jason Fuchs and Brad Kane.

‘Naked and Afraid Brazil’ (2021)

Complete strangers team up, completely naked, and attempt to survive for 21 days in the Brazilian wilderness. They must build shelters and find their own food while also forming connections with each other. This Brazilian version of ‘Naked and Afraid’ first aired on Discovery+ on November 9, 2021.

Fernando Monezzi and Taís Teixeira lead participants, including Erika Rodrigues. The directors capture difficult challenges on film.

‘American Monster’ (2016)

Through interviews and archival footage, Dramatizations and home videos reveal the hidden, dark sides of seemingly normal people, often uncovering the motives behind their crimes. This series from Investigation Discovery first aired in May 2022.

I was completely captivated by the storytelling, especially with Robert Firth narrating! It wasn’t just a documentary, though; the directors cleverly wove in reenactments with actors, and that blend of facts and drama created some truly chilling reveals. It really brought everything to life.

‘Survival of the Beast’ (2025)

Adventurer Max Djenohan learns to survive in harsh environments by copying the techniques animals use, such as how elephants find water. This is featured in a new series on Animal Planet that first aired on May 3, 2025.

Djenohan hosts, led by Rob Sixsmith, present captivating experiences. Writers share fascinating zoological insights by creating engaging and immersive challenges.

‘Jonathan Ross: Haunted Homecoming’ (2024)

TV personality Jonathan Ross returns to the places he knew as a child in London’s East End, investigating the spooky pasts of locations like old schools and pubs. It will begin streaming on December 20, 2024, on Discovery+.

Ross is the lead investigator, working alongside Kate Cherrell and Ian Lawman. Director Chris Amess documents their paranormal investigations.

‘House Hunters’ (1999)

Home shoppers visit three properties with their real estate agents, carefully considering the pros and cons of each before making a decision, often experiencing a lot of excitement along the way. The popular HGTV show first aired in 1999 and has been narrated by Andromeda Dunker ever since.

Real estate agents and couples star per episode. Directors film hunts, emphasizing decisions.

2025-10-03 02:54