35 Must-Watch Shows on Max (Formerly HBO Max) to Stream Now

Indulge in the Best of HBO Max: A Curated Selection of Must-Watch TV Shows

HBO Max, the streaming platform that emerged from the iconic HBO network, continues to deliver some of the most captivating and critically acclaimed television series of the past quarter-century. From groundbreaking classics like “The Sopranos” and “The Wire” to contemporary hits such as “Succession” and “Euphoria,” HBO Max offers a treasure trove of binge-worthy content.

Original Content That Pushes Boundaries

In addition to its impressive back catalog, HBO Max has ventured into the realm of original programming, presenting viewers with thought-provoking and highly praised series. Shows like Hacks, a comedy that explores the complex relationship between a legendary Las Vegas comedian and her young, entitled writer, and Station Eleven, a post-apocalyptic miniseries that follows the survivors of a devastating flu pandemic, have garnered widespread acclaim for their innovative storytelling and exceptional performances.

Navigating the HBO Max Landscape

Whether you’re a longtime devotee of HBO’s premium content or a newcomer to the world of HBO Max, the sheer volume of available shows can be overwhelming. To help you navigate this vast sea of entertainment, we’ve compiled a list of must-watch series that showcase the best of what HBO Max has to offer. From gripping dramas to side-splitting comedies, these shows are guaranteed to keep you glued to your screen.

Dive into the Captivating World of The Sympathizer

Fans of the critically acclaimed film “Parasite” will find themselves equally enthralled by The Sympathizer, a limited series co-created by renowned filmmakers Park Chan-wook and Don McKellar. Based on Viet Thanh Nguyen’s Pulitzer Prize–winning novel, this black comedy follows the exploits of the Captain (portrayed by Hoa Xuande), a Vietnamese police captain in Saigon who secretly serves as a communist spy. As the story unfolds, the Captain makes his way to America, where he continues to gather intelligence for the Viet Cong. Robert Downey Jr. delivers a memorable performance as a formidable villain, showcasing his versatility by playing four distinct characters throughout the series.

Embrace the Darkness with True Detective: Night Country

For those seeking a darker, more unsettling experience akin to the first season of “True Detective,” look no further than True Detective: Night Country. While this anthology series has had its ups and downs, the latest installment promises to deliver a chilling and atmospheric tale that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

Witness the Brilliance of Bill Hader in Barry

Barry, starring Bill Hader, masterfully blends humor, darkness, and humanity in a way that is both captivating and unsettling. The recently concluded final season serves as a brilliant culmination of the show’s unique tone and style. Hader portrays Barry Berkman, a traumatized marine whose apathy towards life makes him well-suited for his job as a hitman. When a job brings him to Los Angeles, Barry stumbles upon an acting class led by the charismatic Gene Cousineau (played by Henry Winkler in a career-defining role). As Barry attempts to transition into a more normal life, he faces the consequences of his past actions, resulting in episodes that seamlessly shift between hilarity and heart-wrenching drama.

Experience the Thrilling Transformation of Elizabeth Olsen in Love & Death

Elizabeth Olsen, known for her role as Scarlet Witch in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, showcases her acting prowess in Love & Death, a retelling of the true story of Candy Montgomery. Olsen portrays Montgomery, a churchgoing wife and mother who turns murderous after engaging in an affair with a fellow parishioner (played by the talented Jesse Plemons). This limited series, based on a shocking murder that took place in Texas in 1980, offers a riveting exploration of the human psyche and the consequences of our actions.

Immerse Yourself in the Post-Apocalyptic World of The Last of Us

The Last of Us, a television adaptation of the critically acclaimed video game, has succeeded where many other live-action TV shows based on video games have failed. Created by Craig Mazin (Chernobyl) and Neil Druckmann (the game’s original director), this series follows Joel (Pedro Pascal), a hardened survivor tasked with smuggling a witty teenager named Ellie (Bella Ramsey) across a post-apocalyptic America ravaged by a fungal infection that turns humans into zombie-like creatures. The show’s gripping narrative, exceptional performances, and faithful adaptation of the source material have generated significant buzz, even sparking interest in the real-life Cordyceps fungus. With a second season already confirmed for 2025, now is the perfect time to dive into this enthralling series.