If you’re looking for something to watch on HBO Max this weekend, here are the top three picks for January 16–18, 2026: a show already being called a classic for 2025, a returning Emmy-winning series, and the new show taking place in the world of Game of Thrones.
These popular series are gaining attention around the world and are perfect for a weekend binge – you can finish them in just a few days! The critically acclaimed HBO Max originals are especially captivating and will grab your attention from the very beginning.
Task
The highly-rated limited series Task is currently popular again on HBO Max, boosted by the recent Critics’ Choice and Golden Globe Awards. Created by Brad Ingelsby, who also made Mare of Easttown, Task centers on an FBI agent played by Mark Ruffalo as he leads a team searching for a missing child.
Despite appearing like a typical crime thriller, Task is truly exceptional. Its complex storyline, captivating atmosphere, and brilliant acting – especially from Mark Ruffalo and a stellar cast including Tom Pelphrey, Emilia Jones, and Jamie McShane – set it apart. Whether you didn’t get a chance to see this excellent 7-part series last year, or want to experience it again, Task is among the best shows available on HBO Max.
The Pitt
The second season of The Pitt premiered last week, and it’s quickly become a hit, earning a near-perfect 99% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Following its successful debut and major wins at the 2025 Emmys and Golden Globes, the show continues to receive high praise.
Noah Wyle, known for his role on ER, stars in this critically acclaimed show, bringing back many favorite characters from the first season. While viewers could always revisit classics like The Sopranos and The Wire, the start of 2026 has clearly belonged to The Pitt, which is widely considered the best medical drama available to stream.
A Knight Of The Seven Kingdoms
While The Pitt is currently the most popular show on HBO Max globally, it might soon be overtaken by A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, the new Game of Thrones prequel series. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms premieres this Sunday, January 18th.
Set approximately 80 years after the events of House of the Dragon, the GoT prequel series (with its third season coming out later this year), A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is already receiving positive feedback. It currently holds an 87% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, suggesting another strong addition to the Game of Thrones world. Be sure to check out the show everyone will be discussing on HBO Max this weekend.
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2026-01-16 04:18