July 2025 rolls in with a packed lineup of new and returning shows across top platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, Apple TV+, Paramount+, and HBO Max. From teen dramas and intense crime thrillers to fantasy and romcoms, this month delivers something fresh for nearly every mood. If you’re looking for what to watch next, this article will share six shows that deserve a spot at the top of your queue.
1. The Summer I Turned Pretty—Season 3
As you share the character’s journey, the series envelops you with nurturing growth. Its coming-of-age story has ranked high on Amazon Prime trending charts and become one of the top-streamed shows in 2023. If you’re looking for a show that mixes in some honest-to-goodness feels, this one’s for you, and it is great for individuals who dig stories that have a real emotional core and are character-driven.
2. Dexter: Resurrection
The beloved antihero returns in this anticipated spinoff, and it’s a continuation with sharp purpose. You should watch if you enjoy complex characters and morally gray narratives that keep you questioning every choice. Perfect for longtime Dexter fans and new viewers alike, this revival brings high-stakes storytelling to Paramount+ with Showtime, proving that some stories are just too twisted to stay buried.
3. Ballard
If you like your shows to have investigations, Ballard is a good choice. Just remember, you can also watch it on Prime Video, and it’s the show for anyone who likes a gritty police investigation and some characters with something to prove. Women-led shows like this are gaining traction, and IMDb data shows a spike in top-rated crime dramas featuring female protagonists over the last five years.
4. The Sandman—Season 2 (Volumes 1 & 2)
Now split into two separate volumes, the show is for bingers who like to dissect complex plots over various realms of fantasy and reality. You’ll accompany characters’ journeys through otherworldly realms and confrontations with their feelings, so it’s fit for lovers of gothic stories. According to Statista, The Sandman ranked among the top 10 most in-demand Netflix shows by U.S. audiences last year.
How to Pick Your Watching Strategy
Some nights, you know what you want to watch; other times, you scroll for 30 minutes, only to rewatch the same comfort show. Instead of getting stuck in choice overload, try building a simple strategy that makes picking faster and viewing better. Here’s how to lock in your perfect watching plan
1. Match the Mood, Not Just the Genre
Before you decide what to stream, consider how you want to feel. If you’re coming off a long day, a romantic comedy can be a better fit than a weighty drama. On the other hand, if you’re in the mood to be challenged, there may be a greater reward in something thought-provoking.
2. Balance New Releases with Ongoing Favorites
New shows create buzz, but continuing a series you’re already into often delivers more satisfaction. If you’re in the middle of something great, finish it first to avoid splitting attention. Once you’re caught up, explore a fresh release with a clear mind. That way, you can keep your watchlist under control.
3. Plan Around Your Schedule
A limited series or mini-season works well for busy weeks, while long-running series fit best when you can commit a few nights. The average U.S. adult watches over three hours of TV per day. According to research, planning your lineup based on time can help you enjoy it without feeling rushed.
4. Try Something Outside Your Comfort Zone
You may be shocked at how nice it is to try a new genre. If you tend to watch a lot of drama, consider a sci-fi show or a slow-burn thriller instead. It’s easy to try out a pilot on a streaming service and then move on if you don’t like it. Changing things up keeps your viewing experience fresh and fun.
Find the Best Shows That Are Already Lined Up for You
With such a rich mix of stories hitting your screen this July, there’s something ready to match every mood and moment. Whether you’re into dark mysteries or epic fantasy, this month’s lineup delivers on all fronts. Instead of scrolling endlessly, you now have solid picks to dive into without second-guessing. So grab a snack, get comfy, and start streaming; you’ve got a great month of watching ahead.
