
Looking for your next obsession? February 2026 is serving up an incredible lineup of shows that’ll keep you glued to your screen all month long. Whether you’re into heart-pounding thrillers, swoon-worthy romances, or edge-of-your-seat dramas, Netflix has something that’ll make you hit “Next Episode” faster than you can say “just one more.”
I’ve spent countless hours (no regrets!) diving into Netflix’s catalog to bring you the absolute best shows on Netflix 2026 has to offer. From brand-new releases that everyone’s talking about to proven favorites that still hit different, this list has everything you need for the ultimate streaming marathon.
Drama

1. Bridgerton (Season 4)
Genre: Period Drama, Romance
Episodes: 8 episodes (Season 4), 32+ total
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
Okay, can we talk about how Benedict Bridgerton finally gets his moment? After three seasons of being the artsy, charming brother in the background, Season 4 puts Benedict front and center, and it’s absolutely everything. The first part dropped in late January, but Part 2 arrives February 26, and I’m already preparing my tissues.
This season follows Benedict (Luke Thompson) as he meets a mysterious “Lady in Silver” at a masquerade ball. Of course, this being Bridgerton, nothing is as simple as it seems. The chemistry between Benedict and Sophie (Yerin Ha) is off the charts, and the costumes? Chef’s kiss. We’re talking gorgeous Regency-era gowns, scandalous balls, and enough romantic tension to power a small city.
What makes this binge-worthy: Each episode ends on a cliffhanger that makes it physically impossible not to watch just one more. The pacing is perfect for a weekend marathon, and the show masterfully balances multiple storylines so you’re invested in everyone’s journey. Plus, the production value is insane – every frame looks like a painting.
Where to Watch: Netflix
2. The Lincoln Lawyer (Season 4)
Genre: Legal Drama, Crime Thriller
Episodes: 10 episodes (Season 4), 40+ total
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
Mickey Haller is back, and this time, he’s fighting for his own freedom. Season 4, which dropped February 5, flips the script in the most devastating way – Mickey gets framed for murder and has to defend himself against a relentless DA (the incredible Constance Zimmer).
Based on Michael Connelly’s “The Law of Innocence,” this season shows us what happens when the man who works out of his Lincoln Navigator becomes the client. Manuel Garcia-Rulfo brings such vulnerability to Mickey this season while maintaining that signature charm. Every courtroom scene is a masterclass in tension, and the mystery of who actually committed the murder keeps you guessing until the very end.
What makes this binge-worthy: If you love legal procedurals with actual stakes, this is your show. Created by David E. Kelley (who basically invented the modern legal drama), every episode is tightly plotted with zero filler. The supporting cast – from Neve Campbell as Maggie to Becki Newton as Lorna – creates a found family dynamic that makes you emotionally invested beyond just the case.
Where to Watch: Netflix
3. The Night Agent (Season 3)
Genre: Action Thriller, Political Drama
Episodes: 10 episodes (Season 3), 30 total
IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Remember when you stayed up until 3 AM binge-watching Season 1? Yeah, Season 3 (arriving February 19) is about to do that to you all over again. FBI agent Peter Sutherland (Gabriel Basso) is back, this time tracking down a rogue Treasury agent who fled to Istanbul with classified government intel after murdering his boss.
This show is pure adrenaline. We’re talking car chases through Istanbul’s narrow streets, double-crosses you won’t see coming, and conspiracies that go all the way to the top. The action sequences are movie-quality, and the plot moves so fast you’ll get whiplash in the best way possible.
What makes this binge-worthy: Each episode is structured like a mini action movie with its own climax, but the overarching conspiracy makes it impossible to stop watching. The international locations add a James Bond-esque quality, and the show isn’t afraid to kill off characters you think are safe. Perfect for when you want something that doesn’t require deep emotional investment but keeps your heart racing.
Where to Watch: Netflix
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4. The Crown (Complete Series)
Genre: Historical Drama, Biography
Episodes: 60 episodes (6 seasons)
IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
Even though The Crown concluded its run, it remains one of the most binge-worthy shows on Netflix. If you haven’t watched it yet (or want to rewatch it), February is the perfect time to dive into this sweeping chronicle of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign.
From Claire Foy’s portrayal of the young queen to Imelda Staunton’s heartbreaking performance in the final seasons, The Crown is a masterclass in acting, writing, and production design. Each season covers a different era of modern British history, from Elizabeth’s coronation to the challenges of the 21st century.
What makes this binge-worthy: The show treats real history like the most compelling drama imaginable. You know how these events turned out, but the show makes you feel like you’re discovering them for the first time. Each season can almost stand alone, making it easy to take breaks, but the character arcs across multiple seasons are so beautifully crafted that you’ll want to see the whole journey.
Where to Watch: Netflix
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5. Breaking Bad (Complete Series)
Genre: Crime Drama, Thriller
Episodes: 62 episodes (5 seasons)
IMDb Rating: 9.5/10
I know, I know – Breaking Bad has been over for more than a decade. But if you’re one of the five people on Earth who hasn’t watched it, or if you’re ready for a rewatch, this show is the gold standard for binge-worthy television.
Chemistry teacher Walter White (Bryan Cranston) turns to cooking meth after a cancer diagnosis, partnering with former student Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul). What starts as a desperate move to provide for his family becomes a descent into moral darkness that’s impossible to look away from.
What makes this binge-worthy: Every single episode is crafted with the precision of a Swiss watch. The character development is so gradual you don’t even notice Walt changing until suddenly he’s unrecognizable. The show famously gets better as it goes, building to one of the most satisfying finales in television history. Once you start, you literally cannot stop.
Where to Watch: Netflix
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Comedy

6. Nobody Wants This
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Episodes: 10 episodes (Season 1)
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
This show came out of nowhere in 2024 and became everyone’s new obsession. Kristen Bell plays Joanne, an agnostic sex podcaster, who falls for Noah (Adam Brody), a newly single rabbi. Yes, it’s as charming and complicated as it sounds.
The chemistry between Bell and Brody is absolutely electric – these two make you believe in rom-coms again. The show tackles the genuine complications of interfaith relationships without ever feeling preachy, and the supporting cast (especially Joanne’s sister Morgan and Noah’s brother Sasha) are perfectly cast scene-stealers.
What makes this binge-worthy: Each episode is a perfect 30-ish minutes of smart, witty dialogue and genuine emotional moments. The show respects both Judaism and Joanne’s secular lifestyle, creating conflict that feels real without demonizing anyone. It’s funny enough to make you laugh out loud but heartfelt enough to make you tear up. Perfect for a cozy night in.
Where to Watch: Netflix
Trailer:
Thriller/Mystery

7. How to Get to Heaven from Belfast
Genre: Mystery, Dark Comedy
Episodes: 6 episodes (Limited Series)
IMDb Rating: TBD (New Release)
From Lisa McGee, the genius behind Derry Girls, comes this darkly comic mystery that’s dropping February 12. When four estranged friends reunite for the wake of their fourth childhood friend, eerie events send them on a dangerous odyssey through Ireland and beyond.
Early buzz suggests this show combines McGee’s signature humor with a twisty mystery that keeps you guessing. The cast includes some fantastic Irish actors, and if it has even half the charm of Derry Girls with a mystery twist, we’re in for a treat.
What makes this binge-worthy: At only six episodes, this is designed for a single-sitting binge. McGee knows how to write friendships that feel lived-in and real, and wrapping that in a mystery framework is basically catnip for anyone who loved shows like The Afterparty or Only Murders in the Building.
Where to Watch: Netflix (Available February 12)
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8. Black Doves
Genre: Spy Thriller, Action
Episodes: 6 episodes (Season 1)
IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
Keira Knightley as a badass spy? Yes, please. Black Doves premiered in December 2024 but remains one of the hottest shows on Netflix. Helen Webb appears to be the wife of the UK’s Secretary of State for Defence, but she’s actually a spy who’s been passing secrets to a shadowy organization for years.
When her lover is murdered, Helen teams up with old friend and assassin Sam (the brilliant Ben Whishaw) to uncover the truth. The show is stylish, violent, and set during Christmas in London, giving it a unique visual flair.
What makes this binge-worthy: At six episodes, it’s the perfect length – lean, mean, and nothing wasted. The action sequences are genuinely surprising for a TV show, and the relationship between Helen and Sam grounds the espionage in real emotion. Plus, that ending sets up Season 2 in a way that’ll have you desperately wanting more.
Where to Watch: Netflix
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9. Stranger Things (Complete Series to Date)
Genre: Sci-Fi Horror, Mystery, Coming-of-Age
Episodes: 42 episodes (5 seasons – Season 5 currently airing)
IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
The cultural phenomenon that defined a generation is entering its final chapter. Season 5 started dropping episodes in late 2025, with the final batch coming in early 2026. If you’ve somehow avoided spoilers and want to catch up, or if you want to rewatch before the finale, now’s the time.
Set in 1980s Indiana, Stranger Things follows a group of kids dealing with supernatural forces, government conspiracies, and the Upside Down. What started as a Stephen King/Steven Spielberg homage became something entirely its own.
What makes this binge-worthy: The Duffer Brothers are masters of the cliffhanger. Season 1 can be binged in a day, and you’ll immediately want to dive into Season 2. The blend of horror, humor, heart, and nostalgia creates something that appeals to everyone. The child actors (now young adults) give performances way beyond their years, and the 80s soundtrack is immaculate.
Where to Watch: Netflix
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Sci-Fi/Fantasy

10. Arcane (Complete Series)
Genre: Animated Action, Fantasy
Episodes: 18 episodes (2 seasons)
IMDb Rating: 9.0/10
Don’t let the “it’s based on League of Legends” thing scare you away – you don’t need to know anything about the game to be absolutely blown away by Arcane. This animated masterpiece tells the story of sisters Vi and Jinx in the cities of Piltover and Zaun.
The animation is unlike anything you’ve ever seen – every frame is a work of art. The story tackles class warfare, trauma, family, and revolution with a sophistication that puts most live-action shows to shame. The voice acting is phenomenal, and the soundtrack (featuring Imagine Dragons and more) is a character in itself.
What makes this binge-worthy: Each episode is around 40 minutes, giving it the weight of a feature film. The action sequences are breathtaking, but the show takes time for quiet character moments that’ll destroy you emotionally. Season 1 ends on one of the most devastating cliffhangers in TV history, and Season 2 delivered a conclusion that satisfied longtime gamers and newcomers alike.
Where to Watch: Netflix
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11. Sweet Tooth (Complete Series)
Genre: Post-Apocalyptic Fantasy, Adventure
Episodes: 24 episodes (3 seasons)
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
In a post-apocalyptic world where a pandemic and the mysterious emergence of human-animal hybrid children happened simultaneously, a deer-boy named Gus searches for answers about his past. This show is based on the DC Comics series and manages to be both whimsical and heartbreaking.
Christian Convery is absolutely perfect as Gus, bringing both innocence and wisdom to the role. Nonso Anozie plays Tommy Jepperd, a lone wanderer who becomes Gus’s reluctant protector, and their relationship is the emotional core of the series.
What makes this binge-worthy: Unlike most post-apocalyptic shows, Sweet Tooth maintains a sense of hope and wonder that makes it genuinely uplifting. The world-building is fantastic, gradually revealing the mystery of how everything happened. At three seasons, it tells a complete story with a satisfying ending – perfect for when you want something meaningful that doesn’t require a multi-year commitment.
Where to Watch: Netflix
Trailer:
Reality/Competition
12. Love Is Blind (Season 10)
Genre: Reality Dating
Episodes: Episodes release weekly (starting February 11)
IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
Love it or hate it (who am I kidding, you love it), Love Is Blind remains the ultimate guilty pleasure binge. Season 10 brings 32 new singles from Ohio into the pods, hoping to find love without ever seeing each other first.
The concept remains absurd and brilliant: people date in pods where they can talk but not see each other, then get engaged before meeting face-to-face. Then they have a few weeks to plan a wedding while navigating the real world. Drama inevitably ensues.
What makes this binge-worthy: It’s like watching a car crash in slow motion – you can see the red flags from a mile away, but you can’t look away. The show drops episodes in batches, making it perfect for group watch parties or solo binges where you yell at your TV. It’s not prestige television, but sometimes you need something that’s just pure entertainment.
Where to Watch: Netflix (New episodes starting February 11)
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Documentary/Docuseries

13. Queen of Chess
Genre: Documentary, Sports
Episodes: Feature-length documentary
IMDb Rating: TBD (Releases February 6)
Five years after The Queen’s Gambit sparked a global chess renaissance, Netflix brings us the real-life story of Judit Polgár, the greatest female chess player of all time. This documentary (dropping February 6) follows Polgár from her early training as a child prodigy to her legendary match against Garry Kasparov at age 17.
What makes Polgár’s story so compelling is how she broke into the male-dominated world of chess grandmasters, refusing to compete only in women’s tournaments and instead taking on the best players in the world. Her strategic brilliance and competitive fire make for gripping viewing.
What makes this binge-worthy: At feature length, you can watch it in one sitting and come away feeling inspired. The documentary uses chess matches as the framework for exploring bigger themes about gender, genius, and the cost of greatness. Perfect for fans of sports documentaries or anyone who loved The Queen’s Gambit.
Where to Watch: Netflix (Available February 6)
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14. Glitter & Gold: Ice Dancing
Genre: Sports Documentary
Episodes: Limited series
IMDb Rating: TBD (New Release)
Dropping February 6 just ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics, this docuseries takes you inside the high-stakes world of competitive ice dancing. Follow the sport’s top couples as they prepare for the Olympics, dealing with the physical demands, artistic pressures, and the unique challenge of maintaining a partnership on and off the ice.
The series particularly focuses on Madison Chock and Evan Bates, real-life romantic and competitive partners aiming for the Olympic podium. Think Drive to Survive but on ice, with sequins.
What makes this binge-worthy: The access is incredible – you see the falls, the injuries, the artistic disagreements, and the moments of pure magic. Ice dancing is one of the most subjective Olympic sports, and the show doesn’t shy away from the politics and judging controversies. The combination of athletic excellence and artistic beauty makes for compelling TV.
Where to Watch: Netflix (Available February 6)
International
15. Squid Game (Complete Series)
Genre: Survival Drama, Thriller
Episodes: 17 episodes (2 seasons)
IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
The show that broke the internet in 2021 and became Netflix’s most-watched series ever remains absolutely essential viewing. Season 2 dropped on December 26, 2024, bringing back Seong Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae) as he infiltrates a new game to take down the organization from the inside.
Squid Game takes childhood games and turns them into life-or-death contests for desperate people who need money. It’s a brutal commentary on capitalism, inequality, and human nature, wrapped in the most visually striking package you’ve ever seen.
What makes this binge-worthy: Each game is designed to create maximum tension, and the show isn’t afraid to kill off characters you’ve grown attached to. The production design is iconic (those pink guards and green tracksuits are instantly recognizable), and the emotional stakes are real. Warning: once you start, you won’t sleep until you finish.
Where to Watch: Netflix
Comparison Table: Best Shows on Netflix 2026 at a Glance
| Show | Genre | Episodes | IMDb Rating | Best For | Binge Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bridgerton S4 | Period Drama | 8 | 7.3/10 | Romance lovers | 7-8 hours |
| The Lincoln Lawyer S4 | Legal Drama | 10 | 7.7/10 | Crime procedural fans | 9-10 hours |
| The Night Agent S3 | Action Thriller | 10 | 7.5/10 | Adrenaline junkies | 9-10 hours |
| The Crown | Historical Drama | 60 | 8.6/10 | History buffs | 60+ hours |
| Breaking Bad | Crime Drama | 62 | 9.5/10 | Peak TV lovers | 62+ hours |
| Nobody Wants This | Rom-Com | 10 | 7.8/10 | Feel-good vibes | 5 hours |
| How to Get to Heaven from Belfast | Mystery Comedy | 6 | TBD | Mystery fans | 4-5 hours |
| Black Doves | Spy Thriller | 6 | 7.9/10 | Espionage lovers | 5-6 hours |
| Stranger Things | Sci-Fi Horror | 42+ | 8.6/10 | 80s nostalgia | 40+ hours |
| Arcane | Animated Fantasy | 18 | 9.0/10 | Animation fans | 13-14 hours |
| Sweet Tooth | Fantasy Adventure | 24 | 7.8/10 | Heartwarming stories | 18-20 hours |
| Love Is Blind S10 | Reality Dating | Ongoing | 6.7/10 | Guilty pleasure | Varies |
| Queen of Chess | Documentary | 1 | TBD | Chess/sports docs | 2 hours |
| Glitter & Gold | Sports Doc | Limited | TBD | Olympics fans | 4-5 hours |
| Squid Game | Survival Thriller | 17 | 7.9/10 | International hits | 15-16 hours |
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the #1 show on Netflix right now?
As of early February 2026, Bridgerton Season 4 Part 1 is dominating Netflix’s Top 10 globally, with 39.7 million views in its first week. The show appeared in the Top 10 in 91 countries, making it the undisputed champion right now. The anticipation for Part 2 (dropping February 26) is off the charts.
However, “best” is subjective – if you’re looking at critical acclaim and IMDb ratings, Breaking Bad (9.5/10) and Arcane (9.0/10) remain the highest-rated shows on the platform. For new releases, The Lincoln Lawyer Season 4 and Black Doves are generating massive buzz and viewership.
How many hours does it take to binge Bridgerton Season 4?
Season 4 has 8 episodes at approximately 55-60 minutes each, so you’re looking at around 7-8 hours to binge the complete season. That’s totally doable in a weekend if you pace yourself (or one very dedicated Saturday if you’re committed). Part 1 released in late January with 4 episodes, and Part 2 arrives February 26 with the final 4 episodes.
Are any of these shows family-friendly?
Sweet Tooth is your best bet for family viewing – it’s rated TV-PG and appropriate for tweens and up, though it does deal with some post-apocalyptic themes. Queen of Chess (the upcoming documentary) should also be suitable for most ages as an inspiring sports documentary.
Bridgerton has some mature content but season 4 is relatively tame compared to earlier seasons (rated TV-MA for suggestive content). Stranger Things is rated TV-14 and depends on your kids’ tolerance for scary content.
Most of the other shows are definitely for adults – Breaking Bad, Squid Game, The Night Agent, and Black Doves all have violence, mature themes, or adult content.
Which show is best for a quick binge?
If you want something you can finish in a day or weekend:
- How to Get to Heaven from Belfast (6 episodes, ~4-5 hours) – Perfect single-sitting mystery
- Black Doves (6 episodes, ~5-6 hours) – Tight spy thriller with no filler
- Nobody Wants This (10 episodes at ~30 minutes, ~5 hours) – Light, easy rom-com
- Queen of Chess (Feature documentary, ~2 hours) – Inspiring and concise
For a long weekend: The Lincoln Lawyer S4 or The Night Agent S3 (both 10 episodes at ~45-60 minutes).
Do I need to watch previous seasons to enjoy these shows?
Yes, start from the beginning:
- Bridgerton (though each season focuses on a different sibling, the ongoing storylines matter)
- The Lincoln Lawyer
- The Night Agent
- Stranger Things
- Breaking Bad
Can jump in or stands alone:
- Nobody Wants This (Season 1, start here)
- How to Get to Heaven from Belfast (Limited series)
- Black Doves (Season 1, start here)
- Love Is Blind (Each season is standalone)
- Queen of Chess (Standalone documentary)
- Glitter & Gold (Standalone docuseries)
Benefit from watching earlier seasons but not required:
- The Crown (Each season covers different time periods)
- Squid Game (Season 2 references Season 1 but provides context)
What show should I watch if I loved The Queen’s Gambit?
Definitely watch Queen of Chess when it drops on February 6! It’s literally about the real-life female chess prodigy who inspired interest in women’s chess. If you loved The Queen’s Gambit’s blend of personal drama with competitive intensity, you’ll also enjoy Glitter & Gold: Ice Dancing (for the Olympic competition aspect) or The Crown (for period piece excellence and strong female leads).
Final Thoughts
February 2026 is absolutely stacked with incredible binge-worthy content. Whether you’re here for Benedict Bridgerton’s swoon-worthy romance, Mickey Haller fighting for his freedom, or just want to finally understand what all the Squid Game hype is about, Netflix has you covered.
My personal picks? For a weekend marathon, start with Black Doves (quick, intense, satisfying). For the long haul, The Crown or Breaking Bad will give you weeks of top-tier television. And if you just want something fun and light, Nobody Wants This is like a warm hug in show form.
The best shows on Netflix 2026 offer something for everyone – you just need to press play and let the binge begin. Trust me, your couch is calling, and it has opinions about which show you should watch first.
Happy streaming! 🍿
Note: IMDb ratings are current as of February 2026 and subject to change. New releases marked as “TBD” will be updated as ratings become available. All episode counts reflect complete seasons available on Netflix as of February 2026.
