Max is pulling out all the stops this April with a packed schedule that underscores its status as one of the most dynamic streaming platforms of 2025. Formerly HBO Max, the rebranded service continues to merge prestige storytelling with bold new originals—offering viewers everything from critically acclaimed dramas to surreal comedy, global animation, and buzzy A24 films.
The Big One: The Last of Us Season 2 Arrives April 13
The biggest spotlight this month belongs to The Last of Us Season 2, premiering April 13 at 9 PM ET/PT. Picking up five years after the brutal Season 1 finale, Joel (Pedro Pascal) and Ellie (Bella Ramsey) are now living in Jackson, Wyoming. This season tackles the complex and divisive storyline of The Last of Us Part II, a game known for its emotional gut-punches and layered character arcs.
https://www.max.com/shows/last-of-us/93ba22b1-833e-47ba-ae94-8ee7b9eefa9a
New cast members include:
- Kaitlyn Dever as Abby
- Isabela Merced as Dina
- Young Mazino as Jesse
- Jeffrey Wright as Isaac (reprising his video game role)
- Catherine O’Hara, whose role is still under wraps
This season is shorter—just seven episodes—but promises denser, more cinematic storytelling. Episodes will release weekly through May 25, 2025.
For longtime fans, Sony also launched The Last of Us Complete bundle for PS5, including both remastered games and bonus content. A physical collector’s edition will drop July 10.
More Must-Watch Premieres in April 2025
Hacks (Season 4 – Premiered April 10)
The Emmy-winning comedy is back with Deborah Vance (Jean Smart) and Ava (Hannah Einbinder) dealing with the aftermath of a ruthless career chess move. The dynamic between mentor and mentee hits new highs (and lows) as they gear up for Deborah’s shot at late-night history.
The Rehearsal (Season 2 – Premieres April 20)
Nathan Fielder returns with his surreal docu-comedy that’s equal parts absurdist art and psychological experiment. Season 2 promises an even more ambitious scope, with Fielder reportedly “addressing an issue that affects us all.”
Babygirl (Premieres April 25)
From A24, this erotic thriller stars Nicole Kidman in one of her boldest roles to date. It’s directed by Isabel Sandoval, whose past work has blurred the line between arthouse and pulp. Expect this to generate awards buzz and conversation.
Y2K (Streaming Now)
A genre-bending horror comedy by Kyle Mooney, Y2K imagines a world where the millennium bug actually brought digital doom. It’s nostalgic, weird, and made for midnight movie fans.
Iyanu (Premiered April 6)
This Nigerian-American animated series is a standout in Max’s push for more global animation. Inspired by Yoruba mythology, it features a teenage orphan discovering supernatural powers and ancient secrets. Produced in partnership with Cartoon Network.
Lazarus (Premiered April 6)
Anime lovers take note: This is the latest from Shinichirō Watanabe (Cowboy Bebop), blending sci-fi and cyberpunk aesthetics in a dystopian thriller that premiered on Adult Swim and now streams on Max.
Even More Content Dropping in April
Whether you’re into prestige dramas, true crime, animation, or comfort comedies, Max has something to offer. Highlights include:
- Gremlins: The Wild Batch (S2B) – April 10
- Rock the Block (S6, HGTV) – April 15
- Planet Earth III – April 22
- Cookie Monster’s Bake Sale: Block Party – April 17
- Twitter: Breaking the Bird (CNN) – April 30
And don’t overlook the streaming debut of classics like Logan, Portrait of a Lady on Fire, The Terminator, and The Tree of Life.
Max’s Strategy: Prestige Meets Pop Culture
What makes Max stand out in 2025? It’s the platform’s strategic blend of high-profile franchises (The Last of Us, House of the Dragon), buzzy originals (The Rehearsal, Hacks), and art-forward picks (Babygirl, Y2K). Unlike some competitors that flood with quantity, Max continues to bet on quality and variety.
Plans start at $9.99/month, offering full access to both HBO originals and Max exclusives. Whether you’re a fan of searing drama, sharp comedy, or international storytelling, April’s lineup is one of Max’s best yet.
TL;DR: Don’t miss April on Max. Between Joel and Ellie’s return, Deborah Vance’s comeback, and Nicole Kidman going full A24, the streaming calendar is absolutely stacked.
Key Takeaways
- Max is releasing new seasons of hit shows like “The Last of Us” and “Hacks” in April 2025, expanding its already robust content library.
- The streaming service offers diverse programming across multiple genres including comedy, drama, and documentaries with plans starting at $9.99 monthly.
- HBO originals and Max exclusives like “The White Lotus” and “Last Week Tonight” continue to be major draws for the platform’s growing subscriber base.
Current and Upcoming Shows on HBO Max
HBO Max continues to deliver compelling content across various genres. The streaming platform features both returning fan favorites and exciting new series that showcase exceptional storytelling and production value.
Highly Anticipated Series
“The Last of Us” returns for its second season in April 2025, continuing the post-apocalyptic journey based on the acclaimed video game. Fans have eagerly awaited this follow-up since the first season’s critical success.
“The Penguin” has recently premiered, expanding the Batman universe with Colin Farrell reprising his role from “The Batman” film. This DC Universe spin-off explores Gotham’s criminal underworld in greater depth.
“House of the Dragon” continues its epic saga as the Game of Thrones prequel maintains strong viewership numbers. The Targaryen family drama has captivated audiences with its political intrigue and impressive dragon sequences.
Warner Bros has also announced a new True Detective installment following the success of “Night Country,” though details remain limited at this time.
Renowned Continuing Shows
“Succession” may have concluded its award-winning run, but “The White Lotus” returns for another season of dark resort comedy. Creator Mike White takes viewers to a new exotic location with fresh guests and surprising twists.
“Euphoria” is finally moving forward with production on its long-delayed third season, with Zendaya returning to her Emmy-winning role as Rue. The series continues to tackle challenging themes with its distinctive visual style.
“Hacks” enters its fourth season in April, with Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder continuing their comedy mentorship journey. The show has consistently earned critical acclaim and awards recognition.
“The Righteous Gemstones” delivers more televangelist family chaos with Danny McBride’s satirical take on religious empires. The series balances outrageous comedy with surprising emotional depth.
Featured HBO Max Originals
“Tokyo Vice” continues its immersive exploration of Japanese crime journalism with its tense storytelling and cultural authenticity. The series has built a dedicated following through its atmospheric portrayal of 1990s Tokyo.
“Our Flag Means Death” returns with more romantic pirate adventures, blending historical comedy with heartfelt character development. The show has garnered a passionate fanbase for its inclusive storytelling.
“The Gilded Age” from Downton Abbey creator Julian Fellowes depicts 1880s New York society with stunning period detail. The series examines class divides and social climbing during America’s transformative economic period.
“Peacemaker” prepares for its second season as John Cena’s antihero continues his violent yet oddly endearing journey. The DC Universe series balances action, comedy and surprising emotional resonance.
Acclaimed HBO Max Content Categories
HBO Max offers a rich library of content spanning various genres. The platform hosts award-winning dramas, hilarious comedies, and thought-provoking documentaries that cater to diverse viewer preferences.
Critically Praised Drama Series
“The Sopranos” remains one of HBO’s crown jewels, revolutionizing television with its complex characters and storytelling. This mob drama set new standards for what TV could achieve.
“Game of Thrones” dominated popular culture for nearly a decade with its epic fantasy world and unpredictable plot twists. Despite a controversial final season, it stands as one of the most watched series in history.
Limited series have become HBO’s specialty. “Chernobyl” captured the horror and heroism following the nuclear disaster with stunning accuracy. “Mare of Easttown” starring Kate Winslet delivered a gripping murder mystery in a small Pennsylvania town.
Recent medical dramas like “The Pitt” examine the complexities of healthcare systems while maintaining human drama at their core.
Comedy and Satire Gems
“The Righteous Gemstones” skewers televangelist culture with sharp wit. Danny McBride’s creation follows a dysfunctional family of preachers with hilarious results.
“Veep” stands as one of the most biting political satires ever made. Julia Louis-Dreyfus won multiple Emmys for her portrayal of the incompetent Vice President Selina Meyer.
“Curb Your Enthusiasm” continues Larry David’s unique brand of cringe comedy. The semi-improvised show delivers uncomfortable situations and social faux pas that viewers can’t look away from.
“Silicon Valley” brilliantly parodied tech culture before many of its satirical predictions came true in the real world. Its smart writing made complex tech concepts accessible and funny.
“The White Lotus” anthology series uses dark humor to examine wealth and privilege at luxury resorts.
Documentaries and Reality Series
HBO excels in documentary storytelling. “I’ll Be Gone in the Dark” follows author Michelle McNamara’s obsessive search for the Golden State Killer. It combines true crime with a poignant personal journey.
“Tiger” examines golf legend Tiger Woods’ rise, fall, and comeback through a thoughtful two-part documentary. It provides context around the athlete’s personal struggles and professional achievements.
“Common Side Effects” investigates pharmaceutical industry practices with meticulous research and powerful interviews. The series exposes how corporate interests sometimes override patient safety.
HBO’s documentaries often tackle difficult social issues with nuance. From environmental concerns to political divisions, these films provide deeper understanding of complex topics.
The platform’s reality content tends toward quality over quantity, focusing on unique concepts rather than following reality TV formulas.
Frequently Asked Questions
HBO Max has undergone significant changes recently, including its rebranding to Max. Viewers have many questions about current programming, upcoming releases, and changes to the streaming platform.
What are the latest original series released on HBO Max?
Recent original series launched on Max include “The Regime” starring Kate Winslet, “The Penguin” with Colin Farrell, and “Tokyo Vice” season 2.
“Hacks” returned with its third season to critical acclaim, continuing the story of veteran comedian Deborah Vance and her young writer.
The platform also debuted “Dune: Prophecy,” a prequel series set in the Dune universe that explores the origins of the Bene Gesserit.
What is the current highest-rated series available on HBO Max?
“Succession” remains one of the highest-rated series on the platform, having concluded its final season with widespread critical acclaim and multiple Emmy wins.
“The Last of Us” continues to hold impressively high ratings following its successful first season. The adaptation of the popular video game has become a standout hit.
“House of the Dragon” maintains strong ratings in its second season, continuing the Game of Thrones legacy with impressive viewership numbers.
Which HBO Max series are returning with new seasons this year?
“The White Lotus” is set to return in late 2025 with its third season, taking place at a new luxury resort location in Thailand.
“Euphoria” has confirmed production on its highly-anticipated third season after significant delays.
“Industry” will return for its third season, continuing to explore the high-pressure world of international finance.
“The Last of Us” has begun production on its second season, adapting the events of the second game in the franchise.
Are there any exclusive movie releases coming to HBO Max soon?
Max will premiere “Dune: Part Two” on the streaming platform in April 2025 after its successful theatrical run.
Several DC Universe films are scheduled for exclusive streaming debuts, including new animated features.
“The Color Purple” musical adaptation will arrive on the platform in the coming months.
Max has also secured streaming rights to several festival favorites that will debut as Max Originals.
What are some trending shows on HBO Max currently?
“True Detective: Night Country” starring Jodie Foster has become one of the most-watched series on the platform this year.
“The Last of Us” continues to attract new viewers despite its first season concluding over a year ago.
Reality series like “The Real Housewives” franchise and “FBoy Island” maintain strong viewership numbers.
Crime documentaries and true crime series have seen increased popularity, with several new additions to the catalog.
How has HBO Max’s content library changed recently?
Max (formerly HBO Max) now includes more content from Discovery networks, adding reality programming, documentaries, and food shows to its library.
Several older HBO shows have been removed from the platform as part of content restructuring decisions.
The platform has increased its international content, adding more foreign language films and series with English subtitles.
Children’s programming has expanded significantly with more animated series and educational content for younger viewers.
