May is shaping up to be a thrilling month for television enthusiasts. With the Bafta TV Awards honoring dramas like Adolescence, A Thousand Blows, and Andor, and Eurovision 2026 taking place in Vienna with Graham Norton's commentary, there is plenty to look forward to. However, the real excitement lies in the streaming releases, including the chilling sci-fi series The Boroughs on Netflix and the raunchy second season of Rivals on Disney Plus. Here are five essential shows to add to your watchlist this May.
The Boroughs: A Sci-Fi Thriller in a Retirement Community
Just five months after the final episode of Stranger Things, the Duffer Brothers return with a new sci-fi series, The Boroughs. While the premise may sound familiar—a suburban town, strange phenomena, secrets, and a group of heroes—the trailer, set to an eerie rendition of Golden Years, promises a unique twist. Set in a retirement community, the show stars Alfred Molina, Alfre Woodard, and Denis O'Hare. The Boroughs premieres on Thursday, May 21, on Netflix.
The Punisher: One Last Kill – A Poignant Character Study
Jon Bernthal's portrayal of the Punisher is widely regarded as one of the best comic book castings. In this TV special, Frank Castle seeks peace instead of violence, offering a raw and emotional performance. The show blends Marvel action with deep character exploration. The Punisher: One Last Kill premieres on Wednesday, May 13, on Disney Plus.
Good Omens Season 3: A Bittersweet Farewell
After seven years, Good Omens comes to a close with a single-episode final season. Fans are eager to see the resolution between angel Aziraphale (Michael Sheen) and demon Crowley (David Tennant), but the series is overshadowed by allegations against creator Neil Gaiman, which he denies. Despite the controversy, the finale is a bittersweet goodbye for devoted viewers. Good Omens season 3 premieres on Wednesday, May 13, on Amazon Prime Video.
Rivals Season 2: Glorious Chaos Returns
The bonktastic series Rivals is back for a second season, filled with garish 80s outfits, saucy encounters, and jaw-dropping scandals. Tony Baddingham (David Tennant) is on the warpath, while Rupert (Alex Hassell) and Taggie (Bella Maclean) continue their will-they-won't-they dance. Based on Dame Jilly Cooper's novel, the show promises even more messiness. Rivals season 2 premieres on Friday, May 15, on Disney Plus.
The Four Seasons Season 2: Laughs and Tears
The highly popular comedy drama The Four Seasons returns with stars Tina Fey, Colman Domingo, and Will Forte. The show follows six friends on a trip, where one couple is on the verge of splitting up. Inspired by the 1981 film, the first season was hailed as tear-jerking, hilarious, and beautiful. The Four Seasons season 2 premieres on Thursday, May 28, on Netflix.
