January has a reputation for taking things slow, but Netflix clearly didn’t get the memo. The streaming platform is kicking off 2026 with a lineup that refuses to idle, packed with returning favorites, fresh releases, and a handful of under-the-radar gems. Consider your quiet evenings officially optional.
Run Away: Limited Series (Series)
Genre: Drama
Release date: Jan. 1, 2026
Netflix synopsis: James Nesbitt and Ruth Jones star in this twisting, turning adaptation of Harlan Coben’s bestseller about a father’s search for his runaway daughter.
The Rip (Film)
Genre: Thriller
Release date: Jan. 16, 2026
Netflix synopsis: Trust frays when a team of Miami cops discovers millions in cash inside a run-down stash house, calling everyone — and everything — into question.
Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart (Documentary)
Genre: Documentary
Release date: Jan. 21, 2026
Netflix synopsis: In 2002, 14-year-old Elizabeth Smart was abducted at knifepoint from her bed. Her survival story and the search for suspects unfold in this documentary.
Cosmic Princess Kaguya! (Anime)
Genre: Anime
Release date: Jan. 22, 2026
Netflix synopsis: Iroha’s life gets knocked off its orbit when Kaguya, a carefree runaway from the Moon, moves in and convinces her to perform in a virtual world together.
Bridgerton: Season 4: Batch 1 (Series)
Genre: Drama
Release date: Jan. 26, 2026
Netflix synopsis: The fourth season of Bridgerton turns its focus to bohemian second son Benedict (Luke Thompson). Despite his elder and younger brothers both being happily married, Benedict is loath to settle down — until he meets a captivating Lady in Silver at his mother’s masquerade ball.
