Whenever HBO Max comes to mind, I think of high-quality programming. The streaming service has certainly proved its worth, topping the Emmy nominations for the 2026 awards with a remarkable total of 122 nominations. This achievement reflects its dedication to creating prestigious dramas and comedies.
With the 2026 Primetime Emmys approaching on September 14, I’ve highlighted some of HBO Max’s Emmy-nominated series this year. While the network boasts a few well-discussed titles, I have chosen to focus on other nominees, including a Game of Thrones spin-off and a captivating crime drama.
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms
A New Chapter in the Game of Thrones Universe
When I first learned about A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, I initially groaned at the thought of yet another Game of Thrones spin-off. However, after viewing the first season, I found myself eager for many more episodes featuring Dunk and Egg. Based on George R. R. Martin’s fantasy novellas, the show tells the tale of the unique friendship between Ser Duncan the Tall (Peter Claffey) and his young squire, Egg (Dexter Sol Ansell).
This series differentiates itself from Game of Thrones by offering a more intimate narrative, focusing on character development rather than epic battles. Set over the course of about two weeks, it follows Duncan’s journey as he aims to become a true knight through a tournament, while Egg seeks to prove his own worth. With concise episodes lasting 30 to 40 minutes, HBO certainly seems to have a new franchise on its hands.
In its first season, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms garnered nine Emmy nominations, including for Outstanding Drama Series.
The Gilded Age
A Journey to 19th Century New York City
Julian Fellowes is renowned for his exceptional period dramas, with notable works like the Oscar-winning screenplay for Gosford Park and the Emmy-winning series Downton Abbey. His latest endeavor, The Gilded Age, explores New York City at the turn of the 19th century.
The series showcases a clash between established aristocrats and newly wealthy social climbers, led by matriarch Agnes van Rhijn (Christine Baranski) and the ambitious Bertha Russell (Carrie Coon). With stunning costumes and lavish settings, it presents a compelling high-society drama. As The Gilded Age gears up for its fourth season premiere on November 1, now is the perfect time to catch up.
This series has received eight Emmy nominations for its third season, including Outstanding Drama Series and Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series (Coon).
Task
A Dive into Delaware County’s Dark Realities
Brad Ingelsby has a knack for weaving intricate narratives set in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. He brought viewers a deep look at trauma and loss through a detective’s perspective in Mare of Easttown. In 2025, he returned to this landscape with Task, a gripping crime drama that contrasts an aging lawman with a determined thief seeking a better life.
The story follows former priest-turned-FBI-agent Tom Brandis (Mark Ruffalo), who joins a task force to track a series of robberies targeting drug houses in the Philadelphia region. The mastermind behind these heists is trash collector Robbie Prendergrast (Tom Pelphrey). The dynamic between Tom and Robbie promises to be a compelling watch, with a narrative that cleverly blurs the lines between hero and villain, providing Ruffalo and Pelphrey with the opportunity to explore complex moralities. Task is noted for its exceptional writing in the past year, earning six Emmy nominations for season 1, including for Lead Actor (Ruffalo) and Supporting Actor (Pelphrey).
Rooster
Steve Carell’s Return to the Classroom
Bill Lawrence, known for his charming ensemble comedies, including Scrubs and Ted Lasso, introduces viewers to his latest series, Rooster, featuring comedy stalwart Steve Carell in the leading role.
In this series, Greg Russo (Carell), an author who created the fictional detective Rooster, visits Ludlow College for a speaking engagement while secretly aiming to check in on his daughter, Katie (Charly Clive), a professor at the institution. After Katie faces difficulties at work due to personal issues, Greg takes on a job at the college to help her save her position. Although described as a midlife crisis show, it’s the endearing support characters that truly capture the audience’s heart.
Rooster has received one Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series (Carell).
Honorable Mentions: The Pitt, Hacks, and DTF St. Louis
HBO Max’s Heavyweights
I couldn’t wrap up this article without recognizing HBO Max’s three top nominees for the 2026 Emmys: The Pitt, Hacks, and DTF St. Louis. These shows have been widely discussed for good reason, as they are competing for awards in their respective drama, comedy, and limited series categories. If you find yourself with some free time, these series are definitely worth a watch.
The Pitt is leading with 25 Emmy nominations, followed closely by Hacks with 24 and DTF St. Louis with 13.
How to Watch the 2026 Emmys
If you’re keen on catching the 2026 Primetime Emmy Awards, mark your calendar for live coverage on Monday, September 14, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC. The ceremony will also be accessible for streaming live and on-demand.
