Netflix Dominates 2026 Streaming Rankings, Disney+ Absent from Top 20
Netflix claimed 11 of the top 20 most-streamed original series in the first half of 2026, while Disney+ failed to place any shows on the list, according to Nielsen data.
Netflix Leads with 11 of Top 20 Original Series
Netflix dominated Nielsen's first-half 2026 streaming rankings, securing 11 spots in the top 20 most-streamed original series. Nine of these were Netflix exclusives, while two were shared with other platforms. Prime Video followed with four entries, including one kids' title co-streamed with Netflix. Hulu and Peacock each had two shows on the list, while Apple TV+, HBO Max, and Paramount+ each landed one. Disney+ was notably absent from the rankings.
'Stranger Things' Tops All Categories
Netflix's Stranger Things was the most-streamed original series, with 23.26 billion minutes viewed across its 42-episode run. The show's fifth and final season was released in three batches between November 2025 and December 2025, driving sustained viewership into 2026. It also narrowly edged out Disney+'s Bluey (22.81 billion minutes) to become the most-streamed series overall.
HBO Max and Paramount+ Secure Top 5 Spots
HBO Max's The Pitt ranked second among originals with 21.12 billion minutes viewed, while Paramount+'s Landman claimed fourth place with 12.4 billion minutes. These were the sole entries for both platforms in the top 20. Netflix's Bridgerton (17.15 billion minutes) and The Lincoln Lawyer (10.53 billion minutes) rounded out the top five.
Disney+'s Stronghold in Acquired Content
While absent from the originals list, Disney+ led the acquired series rankings with Bluey, which generated 22.81 billion minutes viewed despite having only 154 episodes. Other top acquired titles included Grey's Anatomy (Hulu/Netflix, 20.41 billion minutes) and The Big Bang Theory (HBO Max, 20.40 billion minutes).
Limited Newcomer Success
The only freshman series to crack the top 20 was Netflix's limited series His & Hers, which debuted at No. 10 with 7.85 billion minutes viewed. Most other entries were established franchises or returning hits.
Implications for Streaming Competition
Netflix's dominance underscores its ability to retain subscribers with a mix of legacy hits (Stranger Things, Bridgerton) and newer titles (His & Hers). Disney+'s absence from the originals list highlights challenges in replicating its acquired-content success (Bluey) with homegrown series. HBO Max and Paramount+ demonstrated niche strength with single high-performing originals.
What to Watch Next
For viewers, the rankings suggest Netflix remains the go-to for original series, while Disney+ excels in family-friendly acquired content. HBO Max's The Pitt and Paramount+'s Landman are worth exploring for fans of prestige drama. The full Nielsen data is available for deeper analysis of viewing trends.
