10 Must-Watch TV Shows from 2025 Before They Vanish in 2026—Are You Missing Out?

If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, there's no better time to catch up on some of 2025's standout television shows. Here’s a look at ten titles that not only captivated audiences but also sparked conversations throughout the year, all available on popular streaming platforms.

Must-Watch Series of 2025

“Dept. Q” features Matthew Goode as a curmudgeonly detective who leads a team of misfits in solving cold cases. This adaptation of a Danish book series has already been renewed for a second season, showcasing Goode's knack for enhancing ensemble casts. Fans of detective dramas will find this series, available on Netflix, to be a gripping watch.

“Paradise” stars Sterling K. Brown as a U.S. Secret Service agent who is thrown into chaos when the president is found dead. Blending elements of science fiction and mystery, this show promises surprises at every turn and has been renewed for a second season, adding Shailene Woodley to the cast. It’s currently streaming on Hulu.

“Love Island USA” returned for its seventh season, and with a fresh cast, it defined summer viewing. This reality show follows singles in a Fiji villa as they navigate relationships while being voted on by viewers. Its drama and romance generated significant buzz across social media. You can catch this entertaining series on Peacock.

“The Pitt” is another winner, with Noah Wyle returning to the small screen as the head of a trauma center emergency room in Pittsburgh. The show received critical acclaim, winning multiple Primetime Emmy Awards, including Best Drama Series. For those who enjoy intense medical dramas, this is a must-see, especially as Season 2 is set to premiere in early January on HBO Max.

“The Studio” features Seth Rogen as the head of a Hollywood studio, navigating the comedic chaos of showbiz. Critics have noted its "inside baseball" approach, but fans of shows like Curb Your Enthusiasm will appreciate the humor. With an impressive supporting cast and guest appearances from real Hollywood figures like Ron Howard and Martin Scorsese, this series is gaining traction on Apple TV.

“Adolescence” offers a unique viewing experience with its four episodes filmed in a single continuous shot. The story follows a teenage boy accused of murder, and the performances—particularly from newcomer Owen Cooper—have garnered critical acclaim, including several Emmy wins. This groundbreaking series is available on Netflix.

“The Beast in Me” co-stars Claire Danes as a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and Matthew Rhys as a real estate developer suspected of foul play in his wife’s disappearance. The dynamic between the characters provides a thrilling narrative, making this another Netflix offering you won’t want to miss.

Another noteworthy mention is “St. Denis Medical,” a workplace mockumentary that debuted in November 2024 but gained significant attention in 2025. Featuring actors like Wendi McLendon-Covey and David Alan Grier, it captures the day-to-day absurdities of hospital life. The series is available on Peacock and deserves its renewal for more episodes.

“The Paper,” a mockumentary following the staff of a small newspaper in Toledo, Ohio, had an uphill battle as the official spinoff of The Office. While it faced mixed reviews initially, it offers its own brand of humor and is worth watching as it evolves. This series is also streaming on Peacock.

Lastly, “Forever” takes a contemporary look at young love, inspired by Judy Blume's 1975 novel. With strong performances from Lovie Simone and Michael Cooper Jr., this series manages to encapsulate the ups and downs of first love and has already been confirmed for a second season on Netflix.

As the year wraps up, these ten shows represent a diverse array of storytelling, appealing to various interests and formats. Whether you’re in the mood for drama, comedy, or reality television, there’s something for everyone to binge-watch this holiday season.