While Christmas specials dominate December television schedules, several major TV series are making highly anticipated returns this month that deserve a spot on your watchlist. From post-apocalyptic thrillers to romantic comedies and fantasy adventures, here are six standout shows returning for new seasons that promise to keep you entertained throughout the festive period.
Post-Apocalyptic Perfection and Parisian Escapades
Fallout season 2 continues Amazon Prime's critically acclaimed adaptation of the popular video game franchise when it premieres on December 17. The post-apocalyptic drama, which earned seven Emmy nominations for its first season, sees the return of Walton Goggins and Ella Purnell alongside Aaron Moten, Kyle MacLachlan and Frances Turner.
Season two introduces viewers to the New Vegas Strip, ruled by Robert Edwin House, now portrayed by Justin Theroux. Walton Goggins recently explained the approach to the new season, stating they focused on crafting an authentic story within the Fallout canon rather than trying to meet fan expectations directly.
Meanwhile, Netflix's Emily in Paris season 5 arrives on December 18 with a significant twist – Emily has relocated to Rome. Despite the change of scenery, the core elements remain intact: fabulous fashion, romantic dilemmas and beautiful European backdrops.
The new season continues the love triangle between Emily, Gabriel and new Italian interest Marcello, played by Eugenio Franceschini. Fans have praised the series for its escapist quality and beautiful blending of fashion, culture and ambition.
Fantasy Adventures and Animated Thrills
Percy Jackson and the Olympians season 2 returns to Disney Plus on December 10, continuing the adventures of the young demigod based on Rick Riordan's beloved book series. The new season follows Percy as he journeys into the Sea of Monsters to rescue his friend Grover while attempting to save their camp.
The series, which won the Kids' Choice Award for favourite kids' TV show in 2024, has generated significant excitement among fans who describe the upcoming season as looking "bigger and darker."
Netflix's Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft season 2 premieres on December 11, though it will also mark the end of the animated adaptation. Hayley Atwell returns as the voice of Lara Croft, joined by Karen Fukuhara as Sam in a season that sees Lara searching for stolen African Orisha masks while confronting a dangerous billionaire.
Despite the announcement that the series is concluding, fans have expressed excitement about seeing Lara and Sam share the screen again in what promises to be an action-packed final season.
Thrilling Dramas and Sci-Fi Finales
Mexican thriller The Accident season 2 arrives on Netflix on December 10, revisiting the families affected by the traumatic events of the first season. The drama, which originally debuted at number one on Netflix's global top 10 chart for non-English language shows, explores how the community copes with ongoing trauma as new twists unfold.
Fans of the first season described it as "drama after drama" with numerous twists and turns that made it perfect for binge-watching.
Finally, Stranger Things volume 2 completes the epic series on December 26 (Boxing Day) in the UK, with the final episodes continuing directly from the cliffhanger of volume one. The shocking revelation that Will appears to have developed powers similar to Eleven's sets the stage for an explosive conclusion to the battle against Vecna.
Early reviews of volume one have been overwhelmingly positive, with Metro's TV Editor Sabrina Barr describing it as "epic" and something that "will remind you why you fell in love with TV in the first place."
With such a diverse range of returning shows, December offers plenty of entertainment options beyond traditional Christmas programming. Whether you prefer post-apocalyptic action, romantic escapism or supernatural thrills, there's something for every taste arriving this month.
