8 Most Anticipated Fantasy TV Shows of 2026, Ranked

Fantasy television had a strong 2025, dominated primarily by returning series that continued building their established worlds. That trend continues into 2026, with only two new series premiering—both spinoffs of existing hits. While this might suggest the genre needs more original content, the year's lineup still promises exceptional storytelling. Here are the eight most anticipated fantasy shows of 2026, ranked by excitement.

8. Stranger Things: Tales From '85

Netflix's animated spinoff follows the Hawkins gang between Seasons 2 and 3 as they face new supernatural threats. While reconnecting with beloved characters sounds appealing, the show faces significant challenges. By necessity, it must feature lower stakes than the main series to avoid contradicting established canon. The timing also feels rushed—Stranger Things just concluded in 2025, leaving little breathing room for audiences to miss the franchise. A spinoff more removed from the original timeline would generate more excitement. This feels like an obligation rather than an inspired expansion of the world.

7. The Witcher Season 5

The final season of Netflix's The Witcher arrives in 2026, bringing Geralt's story to a close. Season 4 showed improvement after Season 3's struggles, suggesting the series might stick the landing. However, the show's rocky history—from controversial book changes to recasting Geralt—has dampened enthusiasm. While Season 4's production quality and performances offer hope, The Witcher isn't the year's highest priority. If it maintains Season 4's momentum, it'll provide satisfying closure. But other fantasy returns promise more consistent excellence.

6. Avatar: The Last Airbender Season 2

Netflix's live-action adaptation returns for its second season, promising a time skip and Toph's introduction. The trailer suggests the show will adapt the animated series' Book 2, which contains some of the original's best storytelling. Unfortunately, Season 1's inability to capture the source material's tone casts doubt on this installment. Netflix has had time to address the issues, and the show could surprise viewers. But given the first season's struggles, skepticism feels warranted. Other returning series offer more certainty.

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

AMC's acclaimed vampire drama returns as The Vampire Lestat, diving into Lestat's backstory and perspective. This shift makes the comeback particularly compelling, especially given Sam Reid's magnetic performance in the title role. The NYCC trailer promises wild, fun episodes that balance trauma exploration with entertainment. While smaller in scope than some entries on this list, the show's consistent quality and fresh approach to familiar material make it essential viewing for fantasy fans seeking character-driven storytelling.

4. House of the Dragon Season 3

House of the Dragon returns to HBO to fully unleash the Dance of the Dragons after Season 2's buildup. Showrunner Ryan Condal promises "the biggest season to date" featuring major events from Fire & Blood. Despite Season 2's criticism regarding adaptation choices and an underwhelming finale, Season 3's potential remains undeniable. The Targaryen civil war reaching its peak should deliver the spectacular dragon battles and political intrigue fans crave. This will dominate fantasy conversation throughout 2026, though a few shows edge it out for pure excitement.

3. The Legend of Vox Machina Season 4

Prime Video's animated Critical Role adaptation returns after its spinoff The Mighty Nein claimed the title of the platform's best fantasy offering. Season 3 wrapped the initial story arc effectively, meaning Season 4 launches a fresh adventure for the ragtag heroes. While the lack of cliffhanger resolution prevents this from ranking higher, confidence in the Critical Role team remains strong. They've consistently delivered quality fantasy storytelling with humor, heart, and spectacular action. Season 4 will tide fans over until The Mighty Nein continues.

2. One Piece Season 2

Netflix's One Piece proved that live-action anime adaptations can work spectacularly. Season 2 premieres March 10, 2026, bringing fan-favorites Tony Tony Chopper and Nico Robin to live-action while building toward the beloved Alabasta arc. The show stands as one of the best fantasy series of recent years and one of the finest live-action adaptations ever created. If Season 2 matches Season 1's quality in action sequences and performances, it'll top 2026's fantasy releases. Only one show generates more excitement.

1. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms

HBO's newest Game of Thrones spinoff adapts George R.R. Martin's Dunk and Egg novellas, offering something the franchise desperately needs: humor and personal, small-scale storytelling. Every trailer and promotional image looks exceptional, and Martin—despite criticizing House of the Dragon—has praised this series extensively. The shift from grand political machinations to intimate character journeys feels refreshing after Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon's epic scope.

Visiting Westeros twice in 2026 through both this and House of the Dragon could feel excessive, but A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms represents the more exciting prospect. Its January 18 premiere means the wait is nearly over. The series promises to revitalize the franchise by proving that Game of Thrones stories work at any scale, from world-changing wars to wandering knights seeking honor and purpose.

The Year Ahead

2026's fantasy television landscape leans heavily on established franchises, with returns dominating over new concepts. While this demonstrates these shows' quality and audience devotion, the genre could benefit from more original voices. Nevertheless, the confirmed lineup promises excellence across multiple subgenres—from vampire dramas to animated adventures to sprawling epic fantasies. Whether you prefer intimate character studies or massive battles featuring dragons, 2026 delivers compelling fantasy storytelling worth anticipating.