Exciting European TV Dramas to Look Forward to in 2026: Featuring Lupin’s Return and Gomorrah’s Backstory
Gomorrah – The Origins (Sky)
Sky’s upcoming series, Gomorrah – The Origins, is set to take viewers back to Naples in 1977, following the early life of Pietro Savastano, a tough city kid from the impoverished neighborhood of Secondigliano. The prequel, envisioned to span at least three seasons, is produced by Sky Studios and Cattleya, expanding upon the world established by the acclaimed original series inspired by Roberto Saviano’s bestselling non-fiction book. The original Gomorrah, which ran for five successful seasons and featured over 50 episodes, significantly bolstered Sky’s reputation in Italy. As the company shifts its focus away from producing a broad range of original Italian content, The Origins aims to rekindle the kind of success and critical acclaim that its predecessor achieved. The cast includes Luca Lubrano, Francesco Pellegrino, and Flavio Furno.
Lupin (Netflix)
The anticipated third part of Netflix’s hit French-language series Lupin is set to debut in fall 2026, marking a three-year hiatus since the last season aired. This extended wait has sparked discussions about the pacing of releases for streaming shows, but it also means expectations are high for any frustrated fans. Based on Maurice Leblanc’s character Arsène Lupin, the series features Assane Diop, played by Omar Sy, who initially pursued vengeance against the Pellegrini family before embarking on a quest to rescue his son and steal the Black Pearl. The last season ended with Assane incarcerated, but his remarkable escape skills suggest he won’t remain there for long. Returning cast members include Ludivine Sagnier and Antoine Gouy, along with the creative team of George Kay, François Uzan, and showrunners Louis Leterrier and Sy.
Rivals (Disney+)
Anticipation is rising for the second season of Disney+’s Rivals, which recently gained attention when Queen Camilla visited the set to honor the late author Jilly Cooper. The series, which stars David Tennant, Nafessa Williams, and Aidan Turner, is preparing for its next installment following a dramatic cliffhanger from Season 1. This new season promises to delve deeper into the intense competition of 1980s British television franchise bidding, and it will feature newcomers Rupert Everett and Hayley Atwell among its cast. Initially viewed as a bold choice for Disney+, the series has since established itself as a key offering in the platform’s lineup of international originals.
Berlin and the Lady with an Ermine (Netflix)
Berlin and the Lady with an Ermine, the second season spin-off from the Money Heist franchise, maintains the series’ vibrant storytelling while introducing new characters. As Berlin and his accomplice Damián set out to stage a heist involving Da Vinci’s famous painting, their deeper target remains the Duke of Málaga and his wife, who believe they can exploit Berlin. This season promises the signature dark humor and intricate plotting that have made the franchise one of the most celebrated non-English-language series globally.
The Night Manager (BBC, Prime Video)
Tom Hiddleston returns as Jonathan Pine in the much-anticipated second season of The Night Manager after a decade-long wait. Now undercover as MI6 officer Alex Goodwin, Pine’s mundane life is set to take a turn. This iteration brings back a star-studded cast, including Olivia Colman, Elizabeth Debicki, and Hugh Laurie. Premiering on New Year’s Day on BBC, with a mid-January release on Prime Video, this season also features Daisy Jones & The Six star Camila Morrone, creating excitement over potential developments surrounding Laurie’s character, Richard Roper. The enduring popularity of John le Carré adaptations provides fertile ground for this return.
How To Get to Heaven From Belfast (Netflix)
Following the success of Derry Girls, writer Lisa McGee is focusing on her new project, How to Get to Heaven From Belfast, now produced by Netflix. This unique blend of mystery and comedy follows three characters on an unexpected journey filled with humor and tension, promising a fresh storytelling experience compared to her previous work. McGee’s witty style continues to shine in this exciting new endeavor.
4 Blocks Zero (HBO Max)
Scheduled for release in 2026, 4 Blocks Zero marks a significant addition to HBO Max’s slate as it expands into new European markets. This prequel to the acclaimed series 4 Blocks explores how the Hamadi family rose to prominence in Berlin’s Arabic crime scene. With high expectations from the show’s previous accolades and a considerable fan base, this new series aims to achieve similar critical and commercial success.
El Homenaje (SkyShowtime)
Described as SkyShowtime’s answer to Succession, El Homenaje follows Adolfo Novak, the patriarch of a powerful Spanish crime family, as he gathers his family to celebrate his 80th birthday. However, the night reveals unsettling secrets that threaten to unravel their lives. This gripping tale features familiar faces from the acclaimed series Matices, highlighting the network’s commitment to compelling storytelling in Spanish-language drama.
Vaka (Prime Video)
Expected in 2026, Vaka promises to be an intriguing addition to Prime Video’s content, focusing on coming-of-age themes within a complex social landscape. Specific plot details have been kept under wraps, but this show is geared up to engage audiences deeply.
Harvest (New8)
Directed by Oscar-nominated Martin Zandvliet, Harvest is being described as “Succession with tractors and tradition.” This Danish drama depicts the tension and rivalry within a family farm as the new generation prepares to inherit leadership. The eight-episode series has generated excitement for its sharp writing and complex character dynamics, echoing the themes of familial struggle prevalent in contemporary drama.
