These HBO Max shows were the best of 2025, delivering on the humor, emotion, and commentary in memorable ways.

From the critically acclaimed anthology True Detective to the crime series Banshee, we highlight the best thriller shows streaming on HBO Max.

Crave's Heated Rivalry, based on Rachel Reid's Game Changers, went from being a small six-episode Canadian hockey romance to a Global phenomenon after HBO Max acquired rights to stream it in the US.

HBO Max is already set to conquer 2026. The streamer just revealed its programming lineup for January 2026, and there are so many blockbuster movies and TV shows set to premiere, you'll have to use some of your vacation time to watch them all.

Separate from the HBO library of shows like The Sopranos or The Wire, HBO Max Originals were designed to draw a broader audience to the streaming service. In a short period of time, the HBO Max Original brand has produced some must-see shows that are required viewing for subscribers. In no particular order, we’ll break down the best of the brand.