Top 5 Must-Watch HBO Dramas in 2025
2025 is the year of high stakes, intense drama with deep plot lines that keep viewers glued. HBO, one of the oldest networks on “cable,” has been doing this exceptionally well for years. Who doesn’t love an intriguing premise and relatable characters who make you keep tuning in to see what their latest predicament is? Here we’ve compiled a list of five dramatic series on HBO that you might not want to miss this year.
The White Lotus
Posh resorts, luxurious accommodations, and all the money in the world (well, lots of money) just cannot belie the gargantuan problems that the guests encounter during their time at these getaways. In truth – most of their problems are self-created. A talented cast, helmed by Jon Gries (yes, that guy who played Uncle Rico in Napoleon Dynamite) and Natasha Rothwell, help tell this complex and fascinating story. Support cast includes Leslie Bibb, Walton Goggins, Jason Isaacs, and Jennifer Coolidge (yep, she’s AKA Stifler’s mom from American Pie series).
The Gilded Age
Ah, the smell of money in the city. In this particular series, old money meets new money in New York City. Julian Fellowes brings high society in 1880s New York to life in this period drama. Beautiful scenery, elaborate attire, and sassily smart dialogue make this a stand-out series. Shady business dealings, occasional ruthlessness of characters combined with an amazing soundtrack keeps viewers wanting more. Starring in the show is Carrie Coon (of Fargo fame), Morgan Spector, Louisa Jacobson, and Taissa Farmiga.
The Penguin
Season one of The Penguin was a huge success. In fact, Colin Farrell did for the Penguin what the late Heath Ledger did for the Joker. Originally intended as a miniseries, The Penguin may be brought back. Let’s hope HBO listens to what literally hundreds of thousands of viewers want and brings on another season of the saga. Set in gritty Gotham, the series follows Oz Cobb from his very difficult childhood to his rise to one of the toughest and most complicated criminals in Gotham. Colin Farrell and Cristin Milioti star. Catch up – and binge watch season one!
Peacemaker
During COVID James Gunn penned this in about eight weeks. Gunn actually didn’t think this would get picked up – and boy, was he wrong! John Cena stars as Chris Smith in this series. And no – you don’t need to watch Suicide Squad to enjoy this. The show balances wit, action, and drama with humor and some serious storytelling. Fans of superhero films and also ones who are more “lukewarm” on it will like the series. And John Cena perfectly embodies Smith with his irreverent humor and depth. Also featured: Danielle Brooks, Steve Agee, Jennifer Holland, and Robert Patrick.
The Pitt
Noah Wyle plays lead in this highly acclaimed medical drama. Picture ER (which Noah starred in) but more realistic – and you’re immersed right in the center of it. The Pitt is often shot in “the oner” style. This is where the scene is filmed in one long take, which contributes to the taut reality of the show. A fun fact: originally the series was supposed to be a continuation of ER, but unfortunately the production company could not secure the rights. Things were changed around a bit – and voilà – success! HBO renewed this for season two, which should drop in January 2026.
A Few Last Thoughts
Whether you like action, medical drama, or trials and tribulations with business and money dealings, you’ll be able to find something you like on HBO. These carefully crafted series dive deep into watchable plots, they all boast great character development, plus they occasionally bring some quirky humor into the fold. This is the perfect time to binge on any of these HBO dramas. Now get your popcorn and your beverage of choice, then sit back and relax… so you can see somebody else’s problems!
