Clear your calendars and stock up on snacks — this summer’s streaming lineup is looking seriously good. From epic historical dramas to spine-tingling sci-fi, the big platforms are rolling out fresh seasons and brand-new shows designed to keep you glued to the sofa while the sun blazes outside. Whether you’re into thrillers, sweeping adventures or alien horror, there’s something to tempt you away from the barbecue.
Chief of War — 1 August on Apple TV+
Jason Momoa is back — but not in the way you might expect. Forget the futuristic landscapes of See; Chief of War is a grand-scale historical epic co-created by Momoa and Thomas Pa’a Sibbett. The series charts the unification and colonisation of Hawaii, told from the perspective of its native people. Expect jaw-dropping visuals, lush landscapes and richly detailed costumes that feel worthy of a museum exhibit. Apple TV+ will launch with two episodes, giving viewers plenty to sink their teeth into from day one.
Wednesday (Season 2) — 6 August on Netflix
The countdown is on for the return of Netflix’s record-breaking gothic hit. Jenna Ortega’s Wednesday Addams is back at Nevermore Academy, but this time her visions are even more disturbing — including one where she sees her friend Enid’s death, and fears she’ll be responsible. Alongside familiar faces Emma Myers and Hunter Doohan, new additions include Steve Buscemi as the school’s headmaster and Joanna Lumley as Wednesday’s formidable grandmother. Season 2 will be released in two parts: the first on 6 August, the second on 3 September.
Alien: Earth — 13 August on Disney+
After the surprise box office success of Alien: Romulus, the terrifying xenomorphs are making their way to Earth for the first time. In Alien: Earth, a crashed spaceship draws a young girl and a squad of soldiers into an exploration mission that quickly turns into a survival nightmare. As fans of Ridley Scott’s original universe will know, once these creatures arrive, it’s only a matter of time before things get very messy.
Peacemaker (Season 2) — 22 August on Max
It’s been three long years, but John Cena’s helmeted antihero is finally back. Peacemaker’s second season promises another outrageous mix of action and absurdity, with Vigilante, Leota, Emilia and John Economos returning to the fold. This time, Chris and his crew face a brand-new conspiracy, and — in a clever twist — the series has been woven into both the old DCEU and James Gunn’s newly minted DC universe. If you like your superheroes flawed, funny and occasionally inappropriate, mark the date.
The Terminal List: Dark Wolf — 27 August on Prime Video
Prime Video isn’t letting one of its biggest hits fade quietly. Three years after The Terminal List brought in big numbers, we’re getting a prequel focused on Ben Edwards, played by Taylor Kitsch. Set five years before the original, the series follows Ben’s transition from Navy SEAL to CIA paramilitary operative, diving deep into the shadowy world of espionage and high-stakes action. Think high-octane missions, tense alliances and enough intrigue to keep you hitting “next episode” until 2 a.m.
This summer’s streaming slate proves one thing: whether you’re into historical sagas, supernatural mysteries or alien-infested nightmares, you won’t be short of reasons to stay in and hit play.
