Top HBO Max Series to Check Out in 2025

With all the buzz around Warner Bros. Discovery’s potential sale, the future of HBO Max remains uncertain. However, for now, the platform is packed with engaging series that are perfect for cozying up on the couch during the holiday season. Whether you’re into superhero antics, dark humor, or passionate romances, HBO Max has something for everyone. Plus, there’s plenty more on the way, so it’s a great time to explore what the service has to offer in 2025.

**Heated Rivalry**
In a landscape where many shows shy away from adult themes, *Heated Rivalry*—based on Rachel Reid’s *Game Changers* novels—brings a refreshing dose of romance and drama. This frenemies-to-lovers tale unfolds in the world of professional ice hockey, featuring standout performances from Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie. With a second season already confirmed, fans of the series might also want to dive into the source material.

**I Love LA**
Despite its title, Rachell Sennot’s *I Love LA* is more about the trials of late 20s life than the city itself. It captures that bittersweet realization that life isn’t always perfect, yet you still have the energy to hit the town with friends. The show offers a nuanced take on Los Angeles as a hub of the entertainment industry, infused with a sharp, nihilistic humor.

**The Pitt**
*The Pitt* made a strong impression in its first season by delivering a tightly woven procedural drama. Set over a single day, it skillfully develops its characters, making them feel real and relatable beyond the confines of the emergency room. With Season 2 on the horizon, now is the perfect time to catch up on this series that’s best enjoyed slowly rather than binged.

**Adventure Time: Fionna and Cake**
The second season of *Adventure Time: Fionna and Cake* expands its whimsical multiverse as Fionna and Cake embark on a quest to save Finn the Human after a battle injury. While the pacing is a bit slower this time around, the deeper exploration of supporting characters like Huntress Wizard and Simon adds significant depth to the story.

**It: Welcome to Derry**
*Welcome to Derry*, the prequel series to Stephen King’s *It*, successfully incorporates elements from the original novel that were left out of the recent film adaptations. While the story revolves around the familiar horror of Pennywise, it offers fresh insights into the character’s evolving tactics. The finale hints at more of the clown’s story to unfold across different timelines.

**Harley Quinn**
In the latest season of *Harley Quinn*, Harley and Poison Ivy have navigated their ups and downs and are now stronger than ever, relocating from Gotham to Metropolis. This season takes the show’s signature humor to new heights, poking fun at a broader swath of the DC universe.

**Mad Men**
Though *Mad Men* is nearly two decades old, it has recently made its debut on HBO Max, and the streaming issues that plagued its 4K release have been resolved. The series remains a masterclass in storytelling, showcasing character evolution over its seven-season run. If you haven’t experienced this classic yet, now is the ideal time to dive in.

**The White Lotus**
In its third season, Mike White’s dark comedy *The White Lotus* travels to Thailand, exploring the struggles of its wealthy characters as they confront their inner demons. While it takes a bit to gain momentum, the season ultimately delivers the unexpected twists fans have come to expect.

**The Last of Us**
The second season of *The Last of Us* takes bold narrative turns, diverging significantly from the source material. Bella Ramsey’s portrayal of Ellie shines with newfound dynamism, and the show’s production values make it one of HBO’s standout projects. With Season 3 still a ways off, now is a great time to revisit the series from the start.

**Peacemaker**
The latest season of *Peacemaker* delivers a shocking twist that becomes clearer upon a second viewing. While multiverse superhero stories can feel overdone, this series manages to tell a thoughtful and engaging tale about its lead character. Although it may mark the end of Peacemaker’s standalone adventures, it remains a worthwhile watch this holiday season.