October brings a wealth of new and returning shows that offer a little something for everyone, whether you’re into adult animated comedies, crime dramas, political thrillers, or, appropriately for the season, a few scares. We’ve even got a couple of procedurals, a perennial reality favorite, and some anime.
Fittingly, though, the most anticipated show of the month, by far, turned out to be the prequel series based on a Stephen King adaptation. After that, the list was dominated by three Netflix series in a row: the latest chapter in a popular video game adaptation, a hit political thriller, and the sophomore season of a romantic comedy. Tying it all up is an off-kilter HBO Max comedy from Tim Robinson. Read on for the five most anticipated TV or streaming shows of October!
No. 1
IT: Welcome to Derry: Season 1
(2025)
Premiere Date: October 26 on HBO
Stephen King’s IT terrified audiences on the big screen in 2017 and 2019, but the nightmare isn’t over. HBO’s IT: Welcome to Derry dives back into the cursed town with a chilling prequel series that explores how Pennywise’s reign of terror first began. Developed by director Andy Muschietti and producer Barbara Muschietti, alongside Jason Fuchs, the show promises to expand the lore of King’s classic novel while introducing new characters doomed to confront Derry’s darkest secrets. With its premiere set for October 26, this could be the spooky season’s must-watch event.
No. 2
The Witcher: Season 4 (2025)
Premiere Date: October 30 on Netflix
The Witcher returns October 30 with Season 4, featuring Liam Hemsworth taking over as Geralt from Henry Cavill. This chapter adapts Baptism of Fire, following Geralt and Yennefer on separate paths while Ciri falls in with a ruthless outlaw gang called “The Rats”. Familiar faces from past seasons will return, and Netflix has confirmed a fifth and final season to conclude the saga.
No. 3
The Diplomat: Season 3
(2025)
Premiere Date: October 18 on Netflix
Netflix’s hit political drama returns this fall with Keri Russell once again leading the way. After the jaw-dropping finale of season 2, Kate Wyler (Russell) is pulled deeper into the power struggles of Washington when she accompanies Grace Penn (Allison Janney) back to the White House. Expect more tense negotiations, backroom deals, and moral compromises as The Diplomat raises the stakes higher than ever before. The new season drops on October 18, making it a perfect binge during the upcoming month.
No. 4
Nobody Wants This: Season 2
(2025)
Premiere Date: October 23 on Netflix
After the huge success of its first season, Nobody Wants This returns October 23 with season 2. Joanne (Kristen Bell) and Noah (Adam Brody) wrestle with the fallout of Joanne’s choice not to convert to Judaism, as pressure from their families and friends puts their relationship to the test.
No. 5
The Chair Company: Season 1
(2025)
Premiere Date: October 12 on HBO Max
Tim Robinson brings his unique brand of absurdist, cringe comedy to HBO Max as he headlines this new series about a regular guy who is drawn into a vast conspiracy after “an embarrassing workplace incident.” Fans familiar with his work on Detroiters, I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson, and this year’s Friendship can expect to see plenty of Robinson’s trademark offbeat shenanigans at play.
Thumbnail image by ©HBO