What to watch this week (May 19–25): ‘Sirens,’ ‘The Last of Us’ finale, and Nicole Kidman’s return in ‘Nine Perfect Strangers’
From haunting seaside thrillers to unscripted emotional therapy sessions, this week’s TV lineup delivers drama, satire, and reality-checks across major streaming platforms.
Whether you're in the mood for a suspenseful new mini-series, long-awaited season finales, or a dose of real-world discomfort via dark comedy and therapy sessions, the week of May 19–25 offers something for every kind of viewer. Streaming platforms like Netflix, HBO, Hulu, and Showtime are all premiering or wrapping up buzzy shows — and yes, even Stanley Tucci’s back with more pasta.
Here are the top 7 shows and specials to check out this week — with plenty of drama, psychological tension, and unforgettable performances.
New series and returning favorites
‘Sirens’
Streaming Thursday on Netflix
Meghann Fahy leads this moody new mini-series as Devon, an assistant entangled in a web of secrets at a seaside estate. Her billionaire boss’s suspicious bond with her sister sets off a chain of unsettling events in a stunning but tense setting — classic Fahy territory. Expect luxe backdrops and toxic vibes in this slow-burning thriller.
‘Nine Perfect Strangers’ – Season 2
Streaming Tuesday on Hulu
Nicole Kidman returns as the enigmatic Masha, who now runs a retreat in the Austrian Alps offering psychedelic therapy. The cast expands this season with Henry Golding, Annie Murphy, and Christine Baranski, as guests dive into an unconventional 10-day experience that quickly spirals out of control.
‘The Last of Us’ – Season 2 Finale
Streaming Sunday at 9 p.m. on HBO and Max
This post-apocalyptic series wraps its emotional second season with high stakes and unresolved vengeance. While fans knew a major character death was coming, the fallout continues to ripple through the finale. A third season is confirmed — but don’t expect it before 2026.
HBO, Netflix, and Hulu are streaming platforms that offer a wide catalog of series and movies. Photo: MDTech
Reality, documentaries, and satire
‘The Rehearsal’ – Season 2 Finale
Sunday at 10:30 p.m. on HBO and streaming on Max
Nathan Fielder closes out the latest chapter of his awkward, hyper-controlled reality project. Season 2 pushed the boundaries even further — with real people caught in elaborately staged life simulations. One aspiring singer even spent $10,000 on a fake audition, proving once again that Fielder’s art of discomfort hits deeply.
‘Tucci in Italy’
Streaming Monday on Hulu and Disney+
Stanley Tucci explores five regions of Italy — from Tuscany to Lazio — in this charming food docuseries. Along the way, he shares meals and conversations with local artisans, learning about regional cuisine, culture, and the people who preserve it.
‘Jordan Klepper Fingers the Pulse: MAGA: The Next Generation’
Monday at 11:30 p.m. on Comedy Central (next day on Paramount+)
Klepper takes his political satire to college campuses, interviewing young conservative voters in the wake of Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign. With humor and sharp questions, he digs into what motivates Gen Z support for MAGA.
‘Sneaky Links: Dating After Dark’
Streaming Tuesday on Netflix
This new dating reality show gathers singles for a motel rendezvous — only to be surprised by the presence of their ex-hookups. Netflix dives into “situationship” territory, testing whether casual flings can evolve into something deeper under the glow of fluorescent lighting.
‘Couples Therapy’ – Season 4, Part 2
Friday at 9 p.m. on Showtime
Dr. Orna Guralnik returns to counsel couples as they navigate love, resentment, and everything in between. This observational docuseries offers raw, unfiltered insight into real therapy sessions — and shows just how powerful compassionate communication can be.
