In a strategic move to fortify its Mandarin-language offerings, Netflix has introduced an innovative lineup of seven new original series for 2026, with a strong focus on Taiwan as its primary production hub. This announcement comes as the platform seeks to navigate the challenges posed by the ongoing ban on foreign streaming services in mainland China.
The newly revealed slate encompasses a diverse array of genres, including medical dramas, psychological thrillers, and supernatural action, promising to engage audiences with gripping stories and high production values. Among the stars leading these projects are popular actors Wallace Huo, Ethan Ruan, and Gigi Leung, who are set to draw viewers into a range of thrilling narratives.
Maya Huang, Netflix’s head of Chinese-language content, emphasized the unique qualities of Chinese storytelling, stating, “The vibrancy and emotional depth found in these narratives allow for an exploration of complex and sometimes darker human truths. We are especially thrilled about the creative risks these stories take, engaging audiences in extraordinary settings and experiences.”
At the forefront of the new slate is Miracles of the ER, a compelling medical drama set within a bustling Taipei hospital. Starring Wallace Huo as an associate director in the emergency department, the series delves into the intense challenges faced by medical professionals as they navigate ethical dilemmas, internal conflicts, and life-or-death situations. Co-starring Kent Tsai, Miracles of the ER is scheduled to premiere in the fourth quarter of 2026.
On the more intense side, Confessions marks the first long-form series from Hong Kong filmmaker Wong Ching-po, reuniting the creative minds behind the successful dark comedy The Pig, The Snake and The Pigeon. Featuring Ethan Ruan and Gingle Wang, this psychological thriller explores the generational impact of a violent crime in Taipei, unearthing deep-seated resentments and prompting moral reflections among three families.
The slate also embraces genre-defying narratives. Bloody Smart is set in a highly regulated educational town disrupted by the emergence of a mythical “Bloodfruit Tree,” while the action-comedy The Fixers follows a struggling gangster who becomes embroiled in a secretive problem-solving network linked to an ancient temple. Additionally, Dogman, a musical drama, highlights the rise and subsequent psychological decline of a once-famous rock musician confronting the realities of middle age.
Two more series, How to Survive Med School and the supernatural thriller Pacify, have completed principal photography and are set to debut later this year. How to Survive Med School is a coming-of-age drama focusing on a young man who rebels after being deceived into attending Taiwan’s prestigious medical school. Written and directed by Giddens Ko, this series is co-directed by Kai Ko and Tsai Jia-yin. Meanwhile, Pacify revolves around a cynical young woman who is drawn into a secretive exorcism group after her sister becomes possessed. This project is helmed by Hong Kong directors Derek Kwok, Anthony Yan, and Henri Wong.
In conjunction with the series announcements, Netflix reiterated its commitment to bolstering Taiwan’s creative ecosystem. Since 2020, the platform has initiated numerous training and development programs in collaboration with local partners, including writers’ workshops and production training aimed at nurturing local talent and enhancing the industry’s infrastructure.
“Our vision remains steadfast: a long-term commitment to creative excellence while providing a platform for Chinese-language stories to thrive locally and resonate globally,” Huang stated. “We aspire to be the go-to destination for Chinese-language entertainment that invites audiences into unexpected realms.”
This latest release strategy builds on Netflix’s earlier announcements for early 2026, featuring the much-anticipated film Left-Handed Girl, set to premiere on January 30. Directed and co-written by Shih-Ching Tsou, this visually striking drama follows a single mother and her two daughters as they return to Taipei to manage a night market stall, only to confront unresolved family tensions. Notably, this film has been selected as Taiwan’s entry for the 98th Academy Awards and has made it to the December shortlist.
