May 2026 streaming guide: Jack Ryan, Punisher, and Star City lead new Netflix, Prime Video, HBO Max releases.
- May 6, 2026
AceShowbiz - May 2026 promises an exciting slate of new releases across major streaming platforms, including Netflix, Prime Video, HBO Max, and more. Fans of action, thriller, and drama genres will find plenty to enjoy as fresh Movies and series debut throughout the month.
Prime Video is leading the action charge with the release of Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan: Ghost War, an original movie that brings back the iconic character in a brand-new adventure. Meanwhile, Disney+ is set to bring back Marvel's vigilante with a special titled The Punisher: One Last Kill, promising intense action and drama for fans of the franchise.
Apple TV+ is also adding to the lineup with a sci-fi thriller called Star City, which is a spin-off from the acclaimed series For All Mankind. This new show explores intriguing themes within a futuristic setting, sure to attract sci-fi enthusiasts.
Netflix, on the other hand, is releasing a fresh adaptation of the classic novel Lord of the Flies, featuring David McKenna as Piggy, Winston Sawyers as Ralph, and Ike Talbut as Simon. This new take on the well-known story is expected to bring a modern and gripping perspective to the survival drama.
For those who enjoy extensive content libraries, Netflix continues to offer a broad selection of movies and series. On May 1, a variety of popular films will be available, ranging from classics and comedies like 13 Going on 30, The Breakfast Club, and Pretty Woman to thrillers such as Den of Thieves and Green Book. The list also includes notable titles like Schindler's List and Starship Troopers, ensuring there's something for every taste.
Throughout the month, Netflix will add new seasons and series including Dr. Seuss's Horton! - Season 2 on May 4, the comedy special Funny AF with Kevin Hart on May 5, and the thriller Countdown: Rousey vs. Carano on May 6. Other notable premieres include the crime drama The Chestnut Man: Hide and Seek on May 7 and the emotional series Remarkably Bright Creatures starring Sally Field, debuting on May 8.
May 10 marks the arrival of The Roast of Kevin Hart, followed by the romantic film Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris on May 11. Netflix will also release the second season of Devil May Cry on May 12, along with new documentaries and sports-related series like Untold UK: Jamie Vardy.
The month continues to fill out with a diverse array of releases such as the drama Between Father and Son on May 13, and the thriller Nemesis on May 14. Netflix also offers historical documentaries including the first seasons of Abraham Lincoln, FDR, Grant, and Washington starting May 18, alongside crime procedural series Law and Order Seasons 23 and 24.
Later in May, viewers can look forward to new seasons of popular shows like Perfect Match - Season 4 on May 13 and A Good Girl's Guide to Murder - Season 2 on May 27. The streaming giant rounds out the month with specials such as the AFI Life Achievement Award: A Tribute to Eddie Murphy comedy special on May 31.
Prime Video's May 2026 lineup includes a mix of classic films and new content. Starting May 1, viewers can enjoy timeless movies such as A Shot in the Dark (1965), Goodfellas (1990), Despicable Me 4 (2024), and Scarface (1983). This blend of nostalgia and modern releases makes Prime Video a compelling option for movie lovers.
On May 6, Prime Video will launch the highly anticipated second season of Citadel, followed by fresh original series like No Place to be Single on May 8 and Off Campus on May 13. Fans of suspense and espionage can look forward to the new thriller The Double arriving May 21.
Highlighting the month for Prime Video is the release of Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan: Ghost War on May 20, which promises to be one of the platform's biggest draws. Additionally, the action-packed Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom (2023) will become available on May 27, along with the intriguing new title Spider-Noir.
Hulu also enriches its catalog in May with a mix of popular series and films. Starting May 1, viewers can stream complete seasons of El Encargado (Season 4) and Impuros (Season 6). The platform is also introducing a travel series with Travis Japan Travel Around The World, premiering three episodes at once.
Classic and contemporary movies on Hulu include Blood In, Blood Out (1993), Bride Wars (2009), The Departed (2006), and The King's Man (2021). These titles offer a wide range of genres from crime thrillers to romantic comedies, appealing to diverse tastes.
As the month progresses, Hulu will add critically acclaimed horror with Good Boy and the modern Western Thieves Highway, both of which have garnered positive attention. This ongoing commitment to quality films ensures Hulu remains competitive in the streaming landscape.
Though the James Bond movie catalog has departed Netflix, many of the Mission: Impossible films remain available until April 30, with Rogue Nation standing out as a top-tier action installment. This temporary availability offers fans a chance to revisit some of the franchise’s best moments before they leave the platform.
Overall, May 2026 is shaping up to be a dynamic month for streaming audiences, with a rich variety of new releases across genres and services. Whether you favor thrilling spy dramas like Jack Ryan: Ghost War, suspenseful sci-fi like Star City, or fresh takes on classic stories such as Lord of the Flies, the streaming giants have something to offer every viewer.
As always, viewers are encouraged to check their preferred platforms regularly to catch all the latest releases, ensuring they don’t miss out on the month’s biggest entertainment moments.