Full Breakdown
New Streaming Premieres for April 24-26 2026
4/25/2026, 12:24:53 PM
Core Weekend Slate
Netflix launches the animated *Stranger Things: Tales From ’85* (10 episodes), the survival thriller *Apex* (Theron/Egerton), *Running Point* Season 2 (10 episodes), the cult drama *Unchosen* (6 episodes) and the adult animation *Kevin* (8 episodes). HBO Max adds Richard Gadd’s *Half Man* (6 episodes, starring Jamie Bell and Gadd) and the sports drama *Marty Supreme* (Timothée Chalamet). Apple TV releases *Criminal Record* Season 2 (6 episodes). Prime Video streams *Kevin* (8 episodes). The CW offers *Sullivan’s Crossing* Season 4 (10 episodes).
Background & Context
Streaming services issue new titles weekly to retain subscribers. This weekend’s lineup features the first animated *Stranger Things* spin-off and several original dramas, illustrating a mix of franchise extensions and fresh content.
Key Figures & Groups
The Duffer Brothers created the *Stranger Things* spin-off. Richard Gadd writes and stars in *Half Man*. Kate Hudson, Justin Theroux and Ray Romano lead *Running Point*. Charlize Theron and Taron Egerton headline *Apex*. Timothée Chalamet leads *Marty Supreme*. Jason Schwartzman and Aubrey Plaza voice *Kevin*.
Data & Statistics
*Running Point* Season 2 holds an 86 % Rotten Tomatoes rating and debuted at #1 on Netflix’s U.S. chart. *Tales From ’85* scores 67 % (critics) and 49 % (audience) and peaked at #6. *Apex* rates 70 %. *Marty Supreme* earned nine Academy Award nominations without a win.
Why It Matters
The animated spin-off shows how legacy franchises can be repurposed, while original titles such as *Half Man* and *Apex* broaden platform offerings. High-profile casts and strong debut rankings intensify competition among Netflix, HBO Max and Apple TV for weekend viewership.
Official Statements & Responses
The Duffer Brothers said the spin-off “aims to capture the feeling of an ‘80s morning cartoon.” Richard Gadd described *Half Man* as “viscerally brilliant, emotionally unsparing.” HBO Max promoted *Apex* as a survival thriller featuring a human antagonist. Netflix highlighted *Running Point* Season 2 as a “breezy sports comedy” suited for binge-watching.
Criticism & Opposition
Reviews label *Tales From ’85* “only sporadically successful,” reflecting its 67 % rating. *Half Man*’s intense tone may limit appeal. *Apex*’s 70 % rating indicates moderate reception, and *Marty Supreme*’s Oscar snub shows limited awards impact despite nine nominations.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Tales From ’85” was created to evoke the feelings of an ’80s Saturday morning cartoon, and that may very well be just what “Stranger Things” fans are looking for right now.” — The Duffer Brothers, *Stranger Things* creators
- “They follow the franchise’s central group of adolescent kids — Eleven, Mike, Will, Dustin, Lucas and Max — as they find themselves facing new monsters from the Upside Down and try to discover the truth behind Hawkins’ latest paranormal mystery.” — TheWrap editorial staff
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Critic and audience scores for *Tales From ’85* differ (67 % vs 49 %). No detailed viewership data are provided for most releases, leaving audience reach unclear.
