Looking to catch up on all the latest and greatest Netflix shows? I've got some trending recommendations to fill up your watchlist as we head into 2026. Like all the best streaming services, Netflix is always bringing us new releases, but that huge range of choices can be a double-edged sword. Sometimes, that massive library offers too much choice, leaving you with little option but to sit and scroll through category after category whenever you're between shows.
If you limit yourself to what's trending on Netflix, that can mean you stumble on the next must-watch everyone's streaming.... or it might mean you waste your precious viewing time on a series that's not right for you. That's exactly why we at Tom's Guide keep such a close eye on what's in Netflix's top 10 lists: to make sure you only spend time on worthwhile watches.
Best shows in the Netflix top 10
'Emily in Paris'
Netflix's bingeable rom-com is back for its fifth season, and Emily Cooper's (Lily Collins) latest outing continues to be occupy a spot high in the Netflix charts after its return in mid-December.
Jet-setting marketing exec Emily is now the head of Agence Grateau Rome and (unsurprisingly) is facing fresh professional and personal, romantic challenges as she adapts to life in the Italian capital (and beyond). Alas, just as everything's falling into place, a work idea backfires, and the fallout cascades into heartbreak and career setbacks, leading Emily to lean further into her French lifestyle. Netflix promises that "Emily in Paris" season 5 will see Emily emerging with "deeper connections, renewed clarity, and a readiness to embrace new possibilities."
Stream "Emily in Paris" on Netflix now
'Stranger Things'
It's all come down to this. At the time of writing, we're just one day away from the final episode of "Stranger Things" season 5. Even if the second volume has proven to be way more divisive than you might have expected, I'd be remiss not to highlight the show (especially since the second batch sent it straight back to the No. 1 on Netflix's charts).
This fifth and final season takes place in 1987 and sees El (Millie Bobby Brown) and the rest of the Hawkins gang locked in the final fight with their fleshy foe, Vecna (Jamie Campbell Bower). He's out to establish his "new world," and it'll take the entire party working together to try and stop him. Be sure to check the "Stranger Things" season 5 release schedule so you know when the season finale will drop where you are.
Stream "Stranger Things" season 5 on Netflix now
'The Red Road'
Looking for a gritty new series to binge-watch into the new year? This small-town crime drama could well be the watch for you.
"The Red Road" originally ran on SundanceTV for two seasons, airing in 2014-2015, and revolves around Sheriff Harold Jensen (Martin Henderson), who allies with ex-con Phillip Kopus (Jason Momoa), a member of the local Native American community, after his wife is involved in a tragic incident.
The series has clearly found its fans, now that it's on Netflix. Despite only dropping on December 26, it has managed to climb into the top 10.
Stream "The Red Road" on Netflix now
Full Netflix top 10
- "Stranger Things"
- "Dave Chappelle: The Unstoppable"
- "Emily in Paris"
- "Tom Segura: Teacher"
- "The Closer"
- "Sean Combs: The Reckoning"
- "The Beast in Me"
- "Red Road"
- "King of Collectibles"
- "Cashero"
Not sold on any of these picks? Take a look at our round-up of everything new on Netflix in January 2026, or our guide to the best Netflix shows for tons more streaming suggestions.
Follow Tom's Guide on Google News and add us as a preferred source to get our up-to-date news, analysis, and reviews in your feeds.
More from Tom's Guide
You must confirm your public display name before commenting
Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.
