Netflix Launches Packed January 2026 Slate with Bridgerton, James Bond Films, and Emily Henry Adaptation

Streaming Giant Kicks Off Year with Major Content Releases

Netflix is starting 2026 strong with a robust lineup of new and returning series, films, and documentaries designed to keep subscribers engaged throughout the month.[1] The platform is leveraging major franchises, award-winning films, and highly anticipated adaptations to capture audience attention in the competitive streaming landscape.

Returning Series Drive Early January Momentum

Several popular returning shows are leading the charge in early January. Unlocked: A Jail Experiment returns on January 7 with its second season, continuing the social experiment format that generated significant discussion among viewers last season.[1] The following day, Love Is Blind: Germany expands the global dating franchise on January 8, introducing new cultural dynamics and unpredictable relationship outcomes to the beloved reality series.[1]

Sports entertainment fans will get another behind-the-scenes look when WWE: Unreal returns on January 20, offering viewers insight into creative decisions, backstage politics, and the business operations of professional wrestling.[1]

Major Film Releases Highlight January Calendar

The month opens with Ghostbusters: Answer the Call on January 1, providing subscribers with a lighthearted supernatural comedy option to kick off the year.[1] Book lovers have a significant date to mark: January 9 brings the long-awaited film adaptation of Emily Henry's bestselling romance novel People We Meet on Vacation.[1] The adaptation aims to capture the emotional depth and romantic tension that made the novel a publishing success, positioning it as an early standout for Netflix's 2026 film slate.

Additional notable films joining the catalog include award winners like 12 Years a Slave, crowd-pleasing titles like Pitch Perfect, and prestige favorites like Licorice Pizza.[1] Netflix subscribers should also note that Confessions of a Shopaholic is leaving the platform on January 16, making early January the final opportunity to revisit the Sophie Kinsella adaptation.[1]

Diverse Content Across Multiple Genres

Beyond headline releases, January fills out with volume and variety across multiple genres. Long-running series such as Southland and Rizzoli & Isles join the catalog, while new limited series and seasonal releases provide options for different viewer preferences.[1] The month demonstrates Netflix's strategy of balancing blockbuster franchises with diverse content to appeal to its broad subscriber base.

What's Coming This Week

This weekend and early next week bring several additions: The Following Seasons 1–3 arrive on January 3, while Defying Destiny Season 1 launches on January 5.[1] Good Cop / Bad Cop Season 1 and the limited series 11.22.63 both premiere on January 6, along with stand-up special Marcello Hernández: American Boy.[1]