Top Horror TV Shows To Watch In 2026: A Comprehensive Guide
As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, horror fans have plenty to look forward to in the coming years. 2025 proved to be a standout year for the genre, with the release of highly anticipated TV shows like Alien: Earth and It: Welcome to Derry. Now, with 2026 on the horizon, the horror genre is set to captivate audiences once again with a slew of exciting new and returning series.
One of the most anticipated horror shows slated for 2026 is the second season of Alien: Earth. The series, which debuted in 2025, offers a chilling glimpse into a future where humanity is forced to contend with the terrifying presence of the iconic Xenomorphs. Fans were enthralled by the show's gritty, atmospheric storytelling and the masterful way it expanded upon the Alien franchise's mythology. With the series confirmed to be returning, viewers can expect even more thrilling and suspenseful encounters with the lethal extraterrestrial creatures.
Another highly anticipated horror series coming in 2026 is the eagerly awaited second season of It: Welcome to Derry. This series, which serves as a prequel to the classic Stephen King novel It and its subsequent film adaptations, has captivated audiences with its exploration of the dark and sinister history of the town of Derry. The first season, which premiered in 2025, delved into the origins of the malevolent entity known as Pennywise, building upon the rich mythology established in King's original work. Fans can look forward to the return of the show's talented ensemble cast as they continue to unravel the town's deeply rooted supernatural mysteries.
In addition to these highly anticipated returns, 2026 will also see the debut of several new horror series that are sure to pique the interest of genre enthusiasts. One such project is the adaptation of the popular video game franchise Resident Evil. Set to premiere on a major streaming platform, this series promises to bring the iconic zombie-infested world of Resident Evil to life in a thrilling and visually stunning manner. With the game's devoted fanbase eagerly awaiting the adaptation, the series is poised to become a must-watch for horror fans.
Another new horror series set to debut in 2026 is an as-yet-untitled adaptation of H.P. Lovecraft's acclaimed short story "The Call of Cthulhu." This highly anticipated project will delve into the eldritch horrors of the Cthulhu Mythos, exploring the unspeakable cosmic entities that have captivated readers for decades. With Lovecraft's work serving as a significant influence on the horror genre, this series promises to offer a chilling and thought-provoking exploration of the unknown.
Beyond these exciting new and returning series, 2026 is also expected to see the continuation of several existing horror franchises on the small screen. One such example is the third season of the critically acclaimed series The Haunting, which has become known for its captivating anthology format, delving into different haunted locations and the ghosts that lurk within them. Fans of the show can look forward to a fresh set of terrifying tales that will undoubtedly leave them on the edge of their seats.
Another horror franchise set to continue its small-screen dominance in 2026 is the Conjuring Universe. Following the success of the film series, the cinematic universe is set to expand with a new TV series that will explore the case files of real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. With the Conjuring films establishing a devoted fan base, this new series is poised to offer a fresh and deeply unsettling take on the supernatural.
As the horror genre continues to evolve and captivate audiences, the upcoming year promises to be an exhilarating time for fans. With a diverse range of new and returning series, each offering its own unique blend of scares and suspense, 2026 is shaping up to be a banner year for horror television. Whether viewers are drawn to the extraterrestrial terrors of Alien: Earth, the sinister secrets of Derry, or the cosmic horrors of the Cthulhu Mythos, there is sure to be something to satisfy the cravings of even the most ardent horror enthusiasts.