8 Most Anticipated Fantasy TV Shows of 2026, Ranked by Excitement

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Science fiction is everywhere on TV these days, but there are still some great fantasy shows coming out—and the ones expected in 2026 might remind us just how appealing the genre can be. Last year’s best fantasy shows were mostly continuations of existing series, and that pattern is likely to continue this year. Of the biggest new releases, only two are truly original; the rest are spinoffs of popular shows. This raises the question of whether we need more fresh ideas in fantasy, although I’m excited about one of those spinoffs in particular and it’s at the top of my list to watch.

Beyond fully-fledged fantasy series, 2026 has a lot of exciting shows that blend genres, like the fifth season of the superhero hit The Boys and the second season of sci-fi epic Dune: Prophecy, which both incorporate fantasy elements. While we’re also eagerly awaiting confirmed fantasy projects like The Rings of Power Season 3 and the Buffy the Vampire Slayer reboot, this list focuses on the most anticipated confirmed fantasy titles coming in 2026.

8) Stranger Things: Tales From ’85

The popular show Stranger Things concluded in 2025, and a new animated spinoff, Stranger Things: Tales From ’85, is set to premiere on Netflix in 2026. This series will explore the adventures of the Hawkins crew between seasons 2 and 3, as they face smaller supernatural challenges. Because it takes place within the existing timeline, the threats likely won’t be as massive as those from Vecna or the Mind Flayer, which lowers the anticipation. It also runs the risk of changing established storylines. A spinoff further removed from the original show’s events would be more exciting. Honestly, I think a break from this franchise is due, and this quick return doesn’t give audiences much time to miss Hawkins.

7) The Witcher Season 5

Despite the fact that Season 4 of The Witcher premiered on Netflix late last year, Netflix has already announced a fifth and final season for 2026, which should help maintain the show’s current popularity. The series hasn’t been without its challenges, though. Changes from Andrzej Sapkowski’s original books and the recasting of Geralt of Rivia caused significant controversy. It will be interesting to see how the story concludes, especially since Season 4 showed improvement over Season 3. However, it’s not the most anticipated fantasy show of the year. Still, if the final season maintains the production values and acting quality of Season 4, it should be enjoyable.

6) Avatar: The Last Airbender Season 2

Season 2 of Netflix’s live-action Avatar: The Last Airbender is coming this year, though the release date is still unknown. The trailer hints at a time jump and the introduction of the character Toph, but doesn’t reveal much about the plot. Hopefully, the new season will closely follow the storyline of the second ‘Book’ from the original animated series, which would make it even better. However, because the first season had trouble matching the feel of the original, I’m cautiously optimistic. Netflix has had time to improve things, and the season could be a pleasant surprise. Still, other returning shows seem more likely to deliver a strong performance.

5) The Vampire Lestat/Interview With the Vampire Season 3

Fans can look forward to the third season of Interview With the Vampire this year, now titled The Vampire Lestat. This season will focus on Lestat’s past and how he sees the world, which is a really intriguing development. The trailer released at New York Comic Con suggests a thrilling new direction for the show. While the series will tackle difficult themes like the characters’ past trauma, it still looks incredibly entertaining, especially with Sam Reid delivering a captivating performance as Lestat. Though other shows might generate more buzz, Interview With the Vampire Season 3 is definitely one to watch this year.

4) House of the Dragon Season 3

Season 2 of House of the Dragon set the stage for the major conflict, the Dance of the Dragons, which will fully unfold in Season 3. Luckily for fans of the Game of Thrones spin-off, the new season is coming out sometime this year – and it’s not the only show from that universe in the works. While Season 2 received some criticism for its adaptation of Fire & Blood and a somewhat disappointing ending, Season 3 looks very promising. According to showrunner Ryan Condal, it will be the biggest season yet, filled with key events from the original story. It’s sure to be one of the most discussed fantasy releases of the year. However, considering some issues with the last season, I’m personally a little more excited about a few other upcoming shows.

3) The Legend of Vox Machina Season 4

For a while, The Legend of Vox Machina was the best fantasy show on Prime Video. Now that its spin-off, The Mighty Nein, has taken that spot, I’m excited to see where the franchise goes next. Luckily, Season 4 of The Legend of Vox Machina is coming out this year to keep fans happy while we wait for more The Mighty Nein. Season 3 wrapped up the first major storyline nicely, so the new season will need to start a fresh adventure for these characters. While the show isn’t leaving us on a big cliffhanger, I’m still confident the creators at Critical Role will draw us back into the world.

2) One Piece Season 2

Netflix’s One Piece has been a surprisingly fantastic live-action adaptation – easily one of the best ever made, and a standout fantasy series in recent years. While the show still has a long way to go to cover the entire manga and anime, Season 2 is a welcome step forward. Premiering on Netflix on March 10, 2026, the new season promises a lot to look forward to. It will introduce popular characters like Tony Tony Chopper and Nico Robin, and set the stage for the highly anticipated Alabasta arc, which is expected to be featured in Season 3. If Season 2 delivers the same quality of action and acting as Season 1, it’s sure to be one of the best fantasy releases of 2026. However, there’s one other show coming out sooner that’s even more exciting.

1) A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms

Fans of fantasy should be thrilled about A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, the new Game of Thrones spinoff coming to HBO in 2026. This series, based on George R.R. Martin’s Dunk and Egg stories, promises a fresh take on the world of Westeros, offering a lighter tone and more intimate stories than we’ve seen in Game of Thrones or House of the Dragon. Many believe this is exactly what the franchise needs. Early looks at the show are fantastic, and George R.R. Martin himself has given it rave reviews. While we’ll see more of the Game of Thrones universe this year, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is the one to anticipate most. And the good news is, it premieres soon – January 18th on HBO.

Which fantasy show coming in 2026 are you looking forward to the most? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion on the ComicBook Forum!

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2026-01-10 05:41