Once a titan of prestige television under the HBO Max banner, Max has undergone its fair share of rebrands and realignments. But while the name may have changed, one thing remains consistent: Max still knows how to deliver must-watch television.
In 2025, the platform is offering a compelling mix of new originals, returning hits, and series finales worth your attention. Whether you’re in the mood for high-stakes drama, boundary-pushing comedy, or genre-defining sci-fi, these are the best shows on Max 2025 that demand a spot on your watchlist.
1. When No One Sees Us
Genre: Crime Drama | Language: Spanish
Max’s first Spanish-produced original is a moody, atmospheric crime series rooted in political tension and investigative intrigue. Adapted from Sergio Sarria’s novel, When No One Sees Us follows U.S. Army special agent Magaly Castillo and Civil Guard sergeant Lucía Gutiérrez, two women drawn into the same dangerous conspiracy from different ends of the justice system.
With its tight writing, slow-burn pacing, and international scope, this is one of the best new Max originals of the year.
2. Celtics City
Genre: Sports Docuseries
A compelling look at one of basketball’s most iconic franchises, Celtics City chronicles the Boston Celtics’ 2024 championship run—but it’s more than just a victory lap. Executive produced by Bill Simmons, this nine-part series explores racial history, team legacy, and modern-day locker room dynamics.
Even if you’re not a sports fan, the off-court drama and cultural commentary make this one of Max’s most compelling nonfiction series.
3. The White Lotus – Season 3
Genre: Satirical Drama
Mike White’s luxury resort satire returns with a new cast, new country, and new moral chaos. Set at a White Lotus in Thailand, Season 3 dives deeper into themes of wealth, family dysfunction, and class warfare. Standouts include Carrie Coon, Walton Goggins, and a highly anticipated cameo from Sam Rockwell.
Sharp, seductive, and consistently surprising, The White Lotus remains one of Max’s crown jewels.
4. The Pitt
Genre: Medical Drama
Set in a deteriorating Pittsburgh hospital, The Pitt stars Noah Wyle in a tense, real-time medical drama that feels part ER, part The Wire. Over 15 intense episodes, it explores burnout, bureaucracy, and the ethics of post-pandemic care.
Executive produced by John Wells, this series isn’t just another hospital show—it’s a raw look at the broken systems beneath the scrubs.
5. The Righteous Gemstones – Final Season
Genre: Comedy
Danny McBride’s hilariously unholy series about a dysfunctional family of televangelists reaches its epic conclusion. The fourth and final season delivers outrageous twists, backstabbing hijinks, and career-best performances from John Goodman, Walton Goggins, and Edi Patterson.
A staple for fans of dark comedy and family drama, The Righteous Gemstones is going out with the chaotic bang it deserves.
6. Somebody Somewhere – Final Season
Genre: Dramedy
Few shows capture quiet resilience and emotional nuance like Somebody Somewhere. As the series wraps its third and final season, Bridget Everett’s portrayal of Sam continues to shine as a celebration of small-town life, friendship, and self-discovery.
Winner of a Peabody Award, this is the kind of show that sneaks up on your heart and stays there.
7. Dune: Prophecy
Genre: Sci-Fi / Fantasy
Set 10,000 years before Paul Atreides, this prequel to Dune explores the birth of the Bene Gesserit sisterhood, the influential mystics of Frank Herbert’s world. Featuring Emily Watson and Olivia Williams, the series combines lavish world-building with philosophical depth.
Renewed before the Season 1 finale aired, Dune: Prophecy proves that Max is investing in long-form sci-fi storytelling that doesn’t compromise on complexity.
8. Like Water for Chocolate
Genre: Romance / Historical Drama
Adapted from Laura Esquivel’s classic novel, this series brings to life a tale of forbidden love, culinary magic, and revolutionary fervor in early 20th-century Mexico. Visually stunning and deeply emotional, it’s a feast for the senses and a standout romance series in Max’s 2025 catalog.
9. The Sex Lives of College Girls – Final Season
Genre: Comedy
Mindy Kaling’s witty and wildly relatable campus comedy wraps its final season with style. The series remains sharp on friendship, sexuality, and identity, and Season 3 introduced new characters and deeper stakes.
With critical acclaim and a loyal fan base, it’s one of Max’s best comedies to binge from beginning to end.
Final Thoughts: Max Still Has It
From gritty medical dramas to globe-trotting satire, Max’s 2025 lineup is a masterclass in diverse, quality storytelling. The platform has remained committed to producing thoughtful, stylish, and conversation-starting TV, even as the streaming landscape shifts.
Whether you’re craving tension, tears, or a few laughs, these top HBO Max shows of 2025 offer something exceptional for every type of viewer.
Bookmark this list—we’ll keep it updated with every must-see Max release throughout the year.
