The Highest-Rated Shows You Can Stream on HBO Max

Hacks

This Emmy-winning comedy continues to be a critical darling, focusing on the complicated mentorship between a legendary Las Vegas comedian, Deborah Vance (Jean Smart), and an entitled young writer, Ava (Hannah Einbinder). By 2025, Hacks has solidified itself as a poignant exploration of the evolution of comedy, the loneliness of fame, and the bridge between generational divides. Jean Smart’s powerhouse performance remains one of the most celebrated on television.

The Pitt

Marking Noah Wyle’s return to medical drama, The Pitt is a realistic and gritty look at a modern-day emergency room in Pittsburgh. Eschewing the soap-opera tropes of typical hospital shows, it focuses on the systemic challenges of the healthcare industry and the tireless work of frontline staff. In late 2025, it has been praised for its authenticity, high stakes, and strong performances, filling the void for fans of prestige procedural drama.

IT: Welcome to Derry

Serving as a prequel to Andy Muschietti’s IT films, this horror series made a massive splash upon its 2025 debut. Set in the 1960s, it explores the origins of Pennywise the Dancing Clown and the dark history of Derry, Maine. Critics have praised the show for expanding the Stephen King universe with genuine scares and a compelling new cast. It successfully brings the cinematic scale of the movies to a long-form television narrative.

The Chair Company

One of 2025's breakout comedies, The Chair Company stars Tim Robinson in a story about an office worker who becomes entangled in a bizarre and absurdist conspiracy. Critics have lauded the show for its unique comedic voice, blending Robinson's signature high-energy awkwardness with a surprisingly tense narrative. It is frequently cited as a "must-watch" for those seeking something genuinely original and hilariously uncomfortable.

The Penguin

A spin-off of Matt Reeves’ The Batman, this gritty crime drama stars an unrecognizable Colin Farrell as Oswald "Oz" Cobb. The series charts his rise through the criminal underworld of Gotham City following the death of Carmine Falcone. Often compared to The Sopranos for its focus on mob dynamics and character-driven stakes, The Penguin is a dark, grounded noir that expands the "Bat-verse" without relying on the Caped Crusader himself.

The White Lotus

Mike White’s biting social satire returned in early 2025 for a highly anticipated third season set in Thailand. The anthology series examines the hypocrisies and darker impulses of wealthy tourists at luxury resorts. With an ever-changing ensemble cast that has featured stars like Jennifer Coolidge and, most recently, Parker Posey and Walton Goggins, the show blends uneasy comedy with a lingering sense of dread, proving that "paradise" is often a thin veneer for human misery.

Succession

Succession has concluded after a four-season run. However, it is one of the best made TV shows available for streaming on HBO Max. The series follows the Roy family, owners of a global media empire, as they jockey for control amid their patriarch's declining health. Known for its razor-sharp dialogue and cynical look at extreme wealth, the show serves as a masterclass in ensemble acting and Shakespearean-level familial betrayal.

House of the Dragon

The first Game of Thrones spin-off continues to command massive viewership and critical respect. Focusing on the internal civil war of House Targaryen known as the "Dance of the Dragons," the series provides the political intrigue and high-fantasy spectacle that fans crave. With a focus on legacy, patriarchy, and the destructive nature of power, the show has successfully stepped out of its predecessor's shadow to become a formidable epic in its own right.

The Last of Us

The Last of Us successfully adapted the lore of a beloved game into an exciting TV show. Starring Pedro Pascal as Joel and Bella Ramsey as Ellie, it has set a new standard for the upcoming video game based movies and TV shows. It masterfully balances visceral horror with profound human connection, exploring themes of grief, revenge, and survival. The production is praised for its hauntingly beautiful visuals and emotional depth, maintaining its status as a global phenomenon.

Peacemaker

John Cena is back after an amazing start with the reboot of Suicide Squad. Directed by James Gunn, the show follows the titular anti-hero as he joins a secret task force to save the world. While known for its vulgar humor and over-the-top action, Peacemaker stands out for its deep-dive into the protagonist's trauma and search for redemption, making it one of DC's most beloved television properties.