We’ve made it to July, which means we’re halfway through the year. It’s a good time to pause and take stock of the best of what we’ve seen. Today, it’s the Top 5 TV Series I’ve seen so far in 2026. Shows appear in ascending order!

No. 5: The Lincoln Lawyer, Season 4 (Netflix)
About: This is a show that goes under-the-radar, but it’s always consistent and consistently entertaining when it drops. This one found our hero, Mickey (Manuel Garcia-Rulfo), in jail and accused of murder. That made for a tense and exciting season. I really love this show and I’m going to miss it after next year’s final season.

No. 4: Drops of God, Season 2 (Apple TV)
About: I never thought this show would get a second season. In fact, we had to wait a long time. On paper, it’s also not my typical shows. I don’t drink wine and I’m not into Manga, so a Manga based on wine told in three languages seems like a leap. But dang if this show isn’t one of the best written series on TV. It’s one of the hidden gems on Apple TV and is well worth seeking out. It was a wonderful, beautiful, emotional ride.

No. 3: The Bear, Season 5 (FX/Hulu)
About: I’m still in the camp that if this show had ended with the Season 4 finale, it would have been pitch-perfect. But these eight episodes, and spending more time with these characters, was still delightful. I’ll miss the show, which will likely wind up in my Top 10 of all time. The first half of the season didn’t hit the same for me, but that closing stretch was straight fire. The best was episode 7, while the finale really ties things up in a beautiful and satisfying manner.

No. 2: Shrinking, Season 3 (Apple TV)
About: If you’re not an Apple TV person, you’re missing great content. Shrinking is one of the hidden gems. It’s consistently beautiful and emotional. It’s funny and has plenty of heart. Jason Segal is great, but Harrison Ford has never been better. I binged through this season and loved every minute. If you’ve never seen it, now is the time!

No. 1: The Pitt, Season 2 (HBO Max)
About: The Pitt was my favorite show of 2025. It was incredible, emotional, and a great watch. Season 2 was different in terms of story and pacing, but the same description still applies. It’s my favorite show of 2026, and I’m not sure anything can top it. Noah Wyle should be well on the way to his second Emmy, and I hope a lot of his colleagues get recognition, too.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.