From the moment The Pitt returned for its second season in January 2026, it captured the attention of critics and viewers alike. The HBO Max original, which first premiered in 2025 to strong acclaim, now opens its sophomore run with a perfect Rotten Tomatoes score, a rare achievement that highlights the show’s mastery of blending high-stakes medical drama with deeply human storytelling.
Set in the high-pressure emergency department of a Pittsburgh trauma center, the series relies on real-time storytelling and unvarnished portrayals of frontline healthcare workers, led by Noah Wyle as Dr. Michael “Robby” Robinavitch.
Produced by R. Scott Gemmill and backed by a cast that balances procedural precision with nuanced character arcs, it has distinguished itself not only through its meticulous craft but also by fostering an immersive sense of empathy that resonates with both critics and audiences alike.
Pluribus (Season 1) — 98 %
(Source: IMDb)
- Platform: Apple TV+
Created by Vince Gilligan, the mind behind Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, Pluribus is a sci-fi drama that blends intricate world-building with deeply human storytelling. The series centers on Dr. Amara Ellis, a neuroscientist grappling with a technology that can merge human consciousness, raising questions of morality, identity, and free will.
Critics have praised the show for its daring narrative structure, compelling performances, and Gilligan’s signature ability to balance suspense with character depth. The early 98 % Rotten Tomatoes score reflects universal acclaim, signaling the series as a major contender in the sci-fi genre and a must-watch for viewers seeking both intellectual engagement and emotional resonance.
Pee‑Wee As Himself (Miniseries) — 100 %
(Source: IMDb)
- Platform: HBO Max
This intimate, archival-style miniseries pays tribute to Paul Reubens and his beloved character, Pee-Wee Herman. Rather than a traditional biography, the series interweaves behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, and cultural commentary, offering a nuanced portrait of a performer who defied convention and inspired generations.
Critics lauded the miniseries for balancing nostalgia with critical insight, celebrating Reubens’ creativity while exploring the pressures of fame and public persona. The 100 % score reflects consensus that this is both a heartfelt homage and an innovative documentary approach to a familiar character.
The Chair Company (Season 1) — 100 %
(Source: IMDb)
- Platform: HBO Max
A dark comedy centered on the behind-the-scenes world of high-stakes furniture design, The Chair Company follows ambitious designer Lara Quinn as she navigates office politics, creative rivalries, and personal dilemmas.
Critics have praised the show for its razor-sharp writing, character-driven humor, and the way it satirizes the absurdities of corporate culture without losing emotional warmth.
Its perfect Rotten Tomatoes score underscores how the series resonates both intellectually and emotionally, offering a rare combination of wit, style, and heart in contemporary comedy.
The Narrow Road to the Deep North (Miniseries) — 100 %
(Source: IMDb)
- Platform: Prime Video
Set during World War II, this historical miniseries adapts the acclaimed novel of the same name, following a group of Australian POWs in the construction of the Burma Railway. The story is anchored by Major Dorrington, a conflicted officer who must navigate survival, loyalty, and moral choices in brutal conditions.
Critics have hailed the series for its cinematic visuals, emotional gravity, and meticulous historical detail, emphasizing the nuanced performances that elevate it beyond standard war dramas. The 100 % rating signals that it has struck a chord with audiences seeking both historical authenticity and compelling storytelling.
Long Story Short (Season 1) — 100 %
(Source: IMDb)
- Platform: Netflix
An animated series blending family comedy with poignant life lessons, Long Story Short follows young protagonist Milo as he navigates school, friendships, and family challenges, often breaking the fourth wall to speak directly to the audience.
Critics praised the series for its clever narrative techniques, humor, and surprising emotional depth, noting that it appeals to children and adults alike. Its perfect score reflects the way the series balances entertainment with meaningful life insights, earning it recognition as one of the year’s most charming and critically acclaimed debuts.
Common Side Effects (Season 1) — 100 %
(Source: IMDb)
- Platform: HBO Max and Adult Swim
This tightly plotted thriller explores pharmaceutical malpractice and corporate corruption, following investigative journalist Lena Carter as she uncovers hidden dangers behind a blockbuster drug.
Critics have praised the series for its sharp pacing, moral complexity, and grounded performances, noting that it elevates procedural storytelling into a tense, socially relevant drama. Its perfect Rotten Tomatoes score reflects widespread critical enthusiasm for both content and execution.
Code of Silence (Season 1) — 100 %
(Source: IMDb)
- Platform: BritBox
A procedural drama about an internal affairs unit investigating corruption in a large metropolitan police department, Code of Silence has been celebrated for its nuanced portrayal of law enforcement, moral ambiguity, and character-driven storytelling.
Lead actor Anthony Ramos anchors the ensemble with a performance praised for emotional depth and authenticity. Critics gave Season 1 a 100 % Rotten Tomatoes score, highlighting its skillful balance of suspense, drama, and social commentary.
North of North (Season 1) — 100 %
(Source: IMDb)
- Platform: Netfix
A Canadian comedy about a culturally distinct small town navigating modern life and absurd situations, North of North blends sharp wit with socially relevant satire. Critics have praised its unique voice, ensemble cast, and clever scripting, noting that it manages to deliver laughs while addressing nuanced social dynamics.
Its 100 % Rotten Tomatoes score places it among the most acclaimed debuts of the year, highlighting the global appetite for innovative storytelling beyond mainstream markets.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians (Season 2) — 95 %
(Source: IMDb)
- Platform: Disney+
The second season of Percy Jackson continues to garner universal critical praise, maintaining a perfect Rotten Tomatoes score from critics. The fantasy series faithfully expands Rick Riordan’s beloved young‑adult mythology, following Percy and his friends as they navigate the world of gods and monsters with increasing stakes and deeper emotional arcs. Review aggregators note that critics appreciate both the faithfulness to the source material and the maturity of its storytelling as it grows beyond its first season.
Heated Rivalry (Season 1) — 98 %
(Source: IMDb)
- Platform: HBO Max
This romantic drama geared around professional sports combines emotional storytelling with authentic character chemistry. Holding a 98 % Rotten Tomatoes critic score, Heated Rivalry has been praised for its engaging lead performances and its sensitive, authentic treatment of queer relationships in a competitive world. Critics frequently pointed to its balance of heartfelt emotion and narrative momentum.
Fallout (Season 2) — 95%
(Source: IMDb)
- Platform: Prime Video
While not at the very top of the 95 % critic list, Fallout registered strong approval on Rotten Tomatoes with critic scores around the low‑to‑mid 90s and matching audience response, reflecting broad praise for its post‑apocalyptic storytelling. Based on the iconic video game, the series weaves complex survival narratives with rich world‑building that appeals to both genre fans and critics alike.
Stranger Things (Season 5) —90 %
(Source: IMDb)
- Platform: Netflix
The latest instalment of Netflix’s genre‑defining sci‑fi series holds a solid 90 % critic score on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics acknowledged its ambition, nostalgic impact and sustained character arcs, even as discussions around storytelling choices and finale pacing generated debate among reviewers. Its place on the list underlines its continued critical relevance even late in its run
Spartacus: House of Ashur (Season 1) — 92%
(Source: IMDb)
- Platform: Starz
The Spartacus universe expands with this spin‑off centered on Ashur’s rise to power, earning an early 92 % Rotten Tomatoes critic score based on initial reviews. Though early data is limited and likely to evolve as more critics publish, the show’s strong start reflects enthusiasm for its character focus, gritty storytelling and high‑impact drama within the broader franchise.
