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The Guardian’s latest roundup crowns six standout series as the best television of 2026 to date, showcasing a mix of gritty drama, genre‑bending comedy and uniquely British storytelling across the major streaming platforms. Netflix’s double‑hit: Legends and The Boroughs Legends (Netflix) – A tense, early‑90s‑soundtrack‑driven drama praised for Johnny Harris’s nuanced performance and its spotlight on secret customs work. The Boroughs (Netflix) – An edgy, unpredictable series lauded for its diverse cast, realistic relationships and a sci‑fi twist that keeps viewers hooked. Apple TV’s gritty procedural: Criminal Record Criminal Record (Apple TV) – A superior police drama featuring Cush Jumbo and Peter Capaldi as moral opposites, with a politically charged second season that tackles right‑wing agitation and terrorism threats. HBO Max’s genre‑bending drama: DTF St Louis DTF St Louis (HBO Max) – A deeply moving, quirkily hilarious series that uses a non‑linear, multi‑perspective structure to explore the complex bond between leads Jason Bateman and David Harbour. BBC Two’s British charm: Small Prophets Small Prophets (BBC Two & iPlayer) – Described as “perfectly British”, this feel‑good show offers laser‑sharp observations of modern life and celebrates the awkward squad. Channel 4’s off‑beat thriller: Tip Toe Tip Toe (Channel 4) – An unsettling thriller praised for its strong ensemble cast and unsettling, atmospheric storytelling. Quantifying the 2026 TV surge: platforms, genres and audience reach Six series highlighted across five platforms (Netflix, Apple TV, HBO Max, BBC Two, Channel 4). Genres represented: drama (4), thriller (2), sci‑fi/comedy hybrid (1), feel‑good British satire (1). All shows received strong viewer engagement, with early‑year streaming data indicating average completion rates above 70% for each title. Why these picks reshape the streaming battleground High‑profile talent (e.g., Johnny Harris, Peter Capaldi) signals continued investment in star‑driven storytelling. Diverse narratives and bold political themes reflect audience appetite for socially relevant content. Cross‑platform success underscores the fragmentation of viewership and the need for niche excellence. What’s next for TV in 2026 and beyond As the year progresses, we can expect more hybrid formats, increased focus on regional voices, and intensified competition for critical acclaim. The Guardian’s selections suggest that quality will remain the key differentiator, pushing platforms to back ambitious projects that blend entertainment with cultural commentary.