From horror prequels to prestige docs and returning fantasy epics, here are October’s must-watch series—plus where and when to stream them.
“IT: Welcome to Derry” (HBO/Max US; Sky Atlantic & NOW UK)
Release: US: Sunday Oct 26, 2025 on HBO and streaming on Max; UK: Monday Oct 27, 2025 on Sky Atlantic and streaming on NOW (episodes weekly).
Why watch: Set in the 1960s, this prequel dives into Mike Hanlon’s family history, the burning of the Black Spot, and the rise of Pennywise. Expect the social tensions of the era woven into slow-creeping dread—perfect Halloween season viewing. From the Muschiettis’ “IT” film continuity, with an eight-episode run landing right on spooky weekend.
“The Witcher” — Season 4 (Netflix)
Release: Worldwide: Oct 30, 2025 (all episodes).
Why watch: Liam Hemsworth debuts as Geralt of Rivia as the saga barrels toward its endgame. Season 4 draws from “Baptism of Fire,” “Tower of the Swallow,” and “Lady of the Lake,” splitting Geralt, Ciri, and Yennefer on perilous paths while introducing fan-favorite Regis (Laurence Fishburne). It’s the penultimate chapter before the confirmed final season, making this a high-stakes binge.
“Mr. Scorsese” (Apple TV+)
Release: Global: Oct 17, 2025.
Why watch: A five-part documentary event from Rebecca Miller, offering unprecedented access to Martin Scorsese—personal archives, intimate interviews, and conversations with long-time collaborators (De Niro, DiCaprio, Day-Lewis, Spielberg, and more). For film lovers, it’s a definitive portrait of a modern master.
“Harlan Coben’s Lazarus” (Prime Video)
Release: Global: Oct 22, 2025 (all six episodes drop at once).
Why watch: A tight, six-episode thriller from the king of twisty mysteries. Cold cases, buried secrets, and a grieving investigator collide in a binge-ready package with a prestige cast. Perfect if you want a complete, spoiler-prone story you can finish in a weekend.
“Nobody Wants This” — Season 2 (Netflix)
Release: Worldwide: Oct 23, 2025.
Why watch: The messy, heartfelt charmer returns with sharper writing and bigger emotional swings. If you like smart rom-com drama that isn’t afraid to be cringe, it’s back at peak form—and a great palate cleanser between darker October fare.
How we chose
We prioritised shows with firm October dates across US/UK platforms, official trailers, and strong audience interest—balancing horror season picks with high-profile originals and returning fan favourites.
Tip: UK viewers can stream “IT: Welcome to Derry” on Sky Atlantic/NOW the day after the US premiere. Netflix drops “The Witcher” S4 all at once on Oct 30 for both UK and US, making it an ideal weekend binge.