Netflix’s Streaming Boom: 14 New and Returning Titles Launching This Week
As Netflix maintains its leadership in the streaming world, the platform is unleashing an exciting array of new and returning titles this week (May 11–17, 2025). With 14 innovative offerings covering genres such as dark comedy, docuseries, anime-inspired dramas, and K-dramas, there’s a selection for every taste. If you’re looking for captivating true crime, tender romance, or imaginative animation, Netflix has something special for you.
Here’s a look at the most eagerly awaited Netflix original shows debuting this week:
1. Tastefully Yours (May 12)
Genre: K-Drama, Romance
This culinary love story revolves around Han Beom-woo, a rich heir turned recipe seeker, and Mo Yeon-joo, an enthusiastic chef. Their fiery competition in the kitchens of Jeonju, South Korea, develops into a romantic bond.
2. Bad Thoughts (May 13)
Genre: Dark Comedy
Comedian Tom Segura leads this offbeat series about a country music star who abducts fans to exploit their traumas for songwriting material. Prepare for sharp humor and unsettling revelations.
3. American Manhunt: Osama bin Laden (May 14)
Genre: Docuseries, True Crime
The newest episode of the American Manhunt series delves back into the worldwide effort to locate Osama bin Laden following 9/11. Featuring exclusive interviews with U.S. officials, it provides a gripping insight into the long quest.
4. Fred and Rose West: A British Horror Story (May 14)
Genre: True Crime Docuseries
This haunting three-part series examines the notorious British serial killer duo, Fred and Rose West. With never-before-seen footage and interviews, it brings new understanding to their gruesome acts.
5. Snakes and Ladders (May 14)
Genre: Drama, Satire
Set in a prestigious school in Guadalajara, this series narrates the story of a teacher whose career is endangered by a rivalry between two students. Directed by Manolo Caro, it’s a pointed commentary on ambition and privilege.
6. Bet (May 15)
Genre: Drama, Teen, Anime-Inspired
Inspired by the Japanese manga/anime Kakegurui, Bet follows a transfer student who disrupts the elite gambling culture at her new boarding school. Anticipate intense drama and psychological clashes.
7. Love, Death & Robots: Volume 4 (May 15)
Genre: Sci-Fi, Animation, Anthology
Netflix’s Emmy-winning animated anthology makes a return with more mind-bending stories. Volume 4 includes dinosaur gladiators, messianic felines, and surreal rock icons, upholding the series’ tradition of visual creativity and storytelling.
8. Franklin (May 15)
Genre: Drama, Thriller
This Lebanese series focuses on a counterfeiter and single dad who partners with an ex-girlfriend to forge a perfect $100 bill to save his ailing daughter. It’s a tense, emotional journey of crime and redemption.
9. Pernille: Season 5 (May 15)
Genre: Drama
All five seasons of this Norwegian series become available on Netflix US. Pernille, a social worker and single mother, balances her demanding profession, three kids, and an elderly father in this touching and realistic drama.
10. Secrets We Keep (May 15)
Genre: Crime, Drama
When a Filipino au pair disappears in an affluent Danish community, a neighbor becomes fixated on discovering the truth. This Danish thriller delves into issues of privilege, race, and justice.
11. Thank You, Next: Season 2 (May 15)
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Drama
After leaving her fiancé at the altar, Leyla begins anew. Season 2 chronicles her voyage of self-discovery, friendship, and fresh romance in a new neighborhood.
12. Dear Hongrang (May 16)
Genre: Historical Romance, K-Drama
Set in the Joseon era, this period piece narrates the tale of Hongrang and his stepsister Jae-yi, whose reunion ignites forbidden emotions. A story of love, tradition, and family secrets.
13. Football Parents (May 16)
Genre: Comedy
This Dutch series humorously examines overzealous parents who go to outrageous lengths to shape their children’s amateur football careers. A satirical exploration of modern parenting and sports culture.
14. Rotten Legacy (May 16)
Genre: Drama, Family
In this Spanish drama, a retired media mogul returns to find his children steering his company in an unwanted direction. Determined to safeguard his legacy, he engages in a relentless battle against his family.
Final Thoughts
This week’s Netflix offerings highlight the platform’s worldwide reach and variety of genres. From the darkly humorous to the deeply moving, these 14 titles illustrate the streaming giant’s dedication to providing fresh, engaging content. Whether you’re in the mood for something light or profound, these new releases are ready to entertain.
