The Best Shows on Max Right Now: Your Ultimate Guide to Must-Watch Content

Max, previously known as HBO Max, continues to offer some of the most engaging, thought-provoking, and entertaining shows, keeping its loyal subscribers captivated while attracting new audiences with its stellar lineup. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the platform, you’ll find a treasure trove of shows that are diverse in genre, tone, and impact. From cult classics to newer, buzzy hits, Max has something for everyone. 

Looking for more recommendations and insights about the best shows and movies to watch? Be sure to check out some of our other extensive guides on Wireless Terminal, including our coverage of the highest-grossing movies of all time (The Ultimate Guide) and top searches for 2023 (Top 10 Most Searched Movies).  

1. Somebody Somewhere

Available to stream on Max
The first show you absolutely cannot miss is Somebody Somewhere. This series captures the story of Sam (played by the brilliant Bridget Everett), a woman in her 40s who returns to her hometown in Kansas to care for her dying sister. After her sister’s passing, Sam finds herself grappling with the complexities of life, loneliness, and the weight of self-discovery. As Sam rebuilds her life with the support of her quirky friend Joel (Jeff Hiller), the show delves into themes of acceptance, identity, and the power of human connection. The show’s Peabody Award-winning writing and powerful performances ensure that it resonates deeply with audiences. It’s a reminder that you don’t need to have all the answers in life—just the right people around you.

For more about impactful storytelling, check out our breakdown of Fan Theories: Decoding the Hidden Depths of Our Favorite Cartoons.

 2. Dune: Prophecy 

Available to stream on Max
Dune: Prophecy transports viewers to the expansive universe of Frank Herbert’s iconic Dune series, expanding on the universe even further through a prequel. This series is set 10,000 years before the events of the well-known Dune films and centers on the powerful Bene Gesserit sisterhood, as two sisters (played by Emily Watson and Olivia Williams) navigate political intrigue and mystical powers. With comparisons to The Handmaid’s Tale, this series blends political drama, science fiction, and timeless storytelling. Given the renewed interest in the Dune saga, Dune: Prophecy is essential viewing for any fan of the universe.

Interested in more science fiction and futuristic storytelling? Dive into The Avatar Trilogy and explore the expansive worlds that transport viewers to unknown realms.

3. The Sex Lives of College Girls 

Available to stream on Max
Mindy Kaling’s creation, The Sex Lives of College Girls, turns the college sex comedy on its head, focusing on the lives of four young women who have just started their journey in university. The series revolves around Kimberly, Bela, Leighton, and Whitney, as they navigate the ups and downs of their new life at college. What sets this show apart is its perspective on female empowerment—this isn’t your average teen drama. It offers a refreshing and honest take on female friendships, sexual exploration, and personal growth. The show’s return for a third season in November 2023 brought new dynamics, especially with Reneé Rapp’s departure and the arrival of a new roommate, Kacey (Gracie Lawrence).

Want to explore more groundbreaking series? Our guide to the greatest animated shows of all time can take you through the best cartoons that changed the world of entertainment.

4. The Franchise

Available to stream on Max
If you’re a fan of satire and media deconstruction, then The Franchise is one to add to your watchlist. Co-created by Armando Iannucci, this series takes a hilarious and absurd look at the world of superhero movie franchises and their ever-growing cinematic universes. Daniel Kumar, the first assistant director on an upcoming superhero movie, tries to make a name for himself amid the chaos of the entertainment industry. Expect sharp wit and a searing critique of the commercialization of modern movies.

Looking for more insights into the intersection of movies and technology? You’ll enjoy our coverage on the animation arena and the evolution of animation. 

5. It’s Florida, Man

Available to stream on Max
From the mind of Danny McBride comes It’s Florida, Man, a wild new series that brings to life some of the most bizarre and headline-grabbing news stories from the Sunshine State. With an all-star comedic cast including Anna Faris, Jake Johnson, and Randall Park, this show offers a laugh-out-loud ride through the absurdity of Florida’s most infamous newsmakers. Expect chaotic, over-the-top situations that are based on true (or at least semi-true) stories.

For more laughs, check out our take on Fan Theories: Unveiling the Mysteries of the Avatar Universe. 

6. The Penguin

Available to stream on Max
Superhero content often resides on Disney+ and other platforms, but The Penguin breaks the mold. This crime-drama series, a spin-off from Matt Reeves' The Batman, delves into the origins of the iconic DC villain Oswald "Oz" Cobblepot, played by Colin Farrell. Set in the gritty underworld of Gotham City, The Penguin showcases Oz's violent rise to power and explores the complex relationships within Gotham’s criminal elite. The show’s dark tone and character development will appeal to fans of mafia dramas like The Sopranos, while still delivering a fresh and thrilling perspective on one of Batman’s most iconic villains.

If you're interested in more explorations of the complex relationships within shows, check out our breakdown of Aang’s Journey from Playful Air Nomad to Masterful Avatar. 

What’s Trending on Max Right Now?

Wondering what to watch at the moment? Max continues to evolve with new, exciting content—both classic and fresh. Here are some of the most talked-about shows right now:

The Most Watched Show on Max Right Now:

 "House of the Dragon", the much-anticipated Game of Thrones prequel, is still drawing massive audiences due to its intense family drama and, of course, dragons.

1. What's Hot on Max Right Now?
   From the high-stakes drama of Dune: Prophecy to the raw humor of The Sex Lives of College Girls, there’s a wide range of shows that are currently hot on Max.
2. Top 10 Most Popular Series on HBO:
   Max is home to both beloved classics like The Sopranos and newer favorites like Hacks and The Penguin. Check out our guide to the most popular series on HBO for more.
3. What’s Trending Now?
   If you’re looking for something fresh, The Penguin is getting rave reviews for its exploration of Gotham’s criminal world. For an all-around binge-worthy experience, The Franchise is sure to keep you hooked with its clever satire on superhero franchises.

Ready to dive into Max’s finest content? The shows listed above will provide you with everything from gripping drama and dark humor to sci-fi adventures and insightful social commentary. For more entertainment coverage, check out our dedicated movie section, and don’t forget to browse through our detailed insights into the best animated series.