2026 Kicks Off with a Bang: What to Watch and Expect in the Entertainment Industry

The first full week of 2026 is already shaping up to be a landmark moment in entertainment. From major awards shows to the return of beloved TV series and the launch of highly anticipated anime arcs, this week sets the tone for the year ahead. Whether you follow film, television, anime, or gaming, January 4 to 11 offers a packed schedule that promises to engage audiences across the globe. Let’s explore the key highlights and what they mean for fans and industry watchers alike.

Awards Season Begins with Critics Choice and Golden Globes

The week opens with the Critics Choice Awards on Sunday, January 4. This event often signals early frontrunners for the awards season and provides a snapshot of critical favorites across film and television. It’s a chance to see which performances and productions are gaining momentum before the bigger ceremonies.

The 83rd Golden Globe Awards close the week on Sunday, January 11, returning to CBS with comedian Nikki Glaser as host. Glaser’s involvement suggests a sharper, more modern tone for the Globes, aiming to refresh the ceremony’s image. A new “Golden Eve” pre-event is also debuting, designed to extend the celebration into a multi-day cultural moment. This move reflects the Globes’ effort to create more buzz and engagement beyond the main night, turning awards season into a broader entertainment experience.

Prestige TV Returns with Industry and The Night Manager

Sunday, January 4, also marks the release of two high-profile TV series that promise to captivate viewers. HBO’s Industry Season 4 returns, pulling audiences back into the high-stakes world of Pierpoint. This season dives into themes of market volatility, power struggles, and the culture of modern finance. The show’s sharp writing and intense character dynamics make it a must-watch for fans of drama rooted in real-world issues.

At the same time, Prime Video releases The Night Manager Season 2, marking Tom Hiddleston’s return to the spy thriller genre after nearly a decade. This series is positioned as a high-budget, luxury production, blending suspense with stylish storytelling. Fans of espionage and intricate plots will find plenty to enjoy in this new season.

Anime Culture Peaks with Jujutsu Kaisen and More

Anime fans have a major event to look forward to on Thursday, January 8, when Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 launches the long-awaited “Culling Game” arc. This storyline is expected to raise the stakes dramatically, with top-tier animation quality and intense narrative developments. The arc’s release will likely dominate online discussions and fan communities, reinforcing anime’s growing influence in global pop culture.

Hulu adds to the momentum with A Thousand Blows Season 2, continuing its gritty Victorian boxing drama. This series offers a unique blend of historical setting and raw emotion, appealing to viewers who appreciate character-driven stories with a tough edge.

Meanwhile, network TV maintains steady viewership with The Rookie Season 8, providing familiar procedural drama for audiences who prefer traditional formats.

Film and Streaming Releases Offer Variety

The week also features notable film and streaming releases. The Luckiest Man in America hits theaters and video-on-demand platforms, offering a fresh story that blends humor and heart. This film is expected to attract a diverse audience looking for relatable, feel-good entertainment.

Netflix’s January slate includes several romance adaptations, international series expansions, and new reality formats. These releases aim to appeal to global audiences, reflecting the streaming giant’s strategy to diversify content and reach viewers worldwide.

Gaming and Tech Rumors Heat Up

The entertainment buzz extends beyond screens with growing chatter about gaming and technology. Rumors about the “Switch 2” console are shaping expectations for hardware releases in early 2026. Fans eagerly anticipate what new features and improvements Nintendo might bring to the table.

New game releases also reflect current trends. StarRupture enters PC early access, offering a co-op survival experience that taps into popular multiplayer gameplay. Fairy Tail: Dungeons and Code Violet highlight the ongoing appeal of anime adaptations and cyberpunk aesthetics in gaming. These titles cater to niche audiences while pushing creative boundaries in their genres.

What This Week Means for the Year Ahead

This first full week of 2026 is more than just busy; it lays a foundation for the entertainment industry’s direction in the coming months. Awards narratives begin to take shape, flagship series return with fresh stories, and anime culture reaches new heights. The mix of film, TV, streaming, and gaming content reflects a diverse and evolving landscape that offers something for every type of fan.

For viewers, this week is an opportunity to catch up on major releases and join conversations that will influence entertainment trends throughout the year. For creators and industry professionals, it signals where audience interests are headed and what kinds of stories and experiences will resonate most.

As 2026 unfolds, keeping an eye on these early developments will provide insight into the entertainment world’s evolving priorities and innovations.