What to watch in October 2026

sky

This October, Sky is rolling out a diverse slate of programming that balances high-stakes prestige dramas with seasonal horror and major cultural events. Whether you are looking for a gripping weekend binge or a family-friendly Halloween classic, here is your essential guide to what’s arriving on Sky this month.Drama Highlights

• WAR: The month’s headline drama is a high-stakes legal thriller from creator George Kay (Lupin, Hijack). The series pits two powerful London law firms—Cathcarts & Sons and Taylor & Byrne—against each other in a headline-grabbing divorce battle between a British tech entrepreneur (Dominic West) and an international film star (Sienna Miller). It’s a ruthless exploration of ambition, strategy, and betrayal, centered on an ambitious young lawyer played by Archie Renaux.
• YAGA: For those seeking a darker, mystery-driven experience, YAGA follows private investigator Rapp (Noah Reid) as he delves into the disappearance of a young heir in a coastal town. The investigation leads him into a complex web involving an apprehensive local detective (Clark Backo), a charismatic professor (Carrie-Anne Moss), and rumors of ancient magic.
• Baby Doe: This intense drama pulls from real-life tragedy, exploring the case of a young woman from rural Ohio who, after giving birth in secret thirty years ago, is suddenly arrested for murder when DNA evidence links her to a cold case. The series examines the crushing weight of religious stigma and community judgment as she fights to prove her innocence.

Horror & Seasonal Specials

• Crystal Lake: Just in time for Halloween, this Friday the 13th prequel expands the franchise’s mythology. Starring Linda Cardellini as Pam Voorhees, the story begins when two strangers arrive at her door looking into her past, triggering a terrifying chain of events that forces the town of Crystal Lake to confront who Pam really is.
• Scream 7: Sidney Prescott returns to face her darkest fears as a new Ghostface killer emerges, putting her daughter directly in the crosshairs.
• Halloween Collections: Beyond new premieres, Sky is curating a massive library of horror. The “Time to Chill” collection features recent hits like Sinners, 28 Years Later, and Weapons, alongside cult classics like The Shining, The Evil Dead, and Event Horizon.

Arts, Culture, & Entertainment

• The Sky Arts Awards 2026: Taking place at London’s Roundhouse on October 13, this year’s ceremony will be co-hosted by Sir Grayson Perry and Self Esteem. The event remains unique for honoring the entire creative spectrum—from literature and poetry to film, comedy, and classical music.
• Portrait Artist of the Year: The thirteenth series launches with a significant shake-up: an entirely new judging panel. Joining host Stephen Mangan are renowned portrait painter Jonathan Yeo, Frieze London director Eva Langret, and art historian Katy Hessel, who will search for the next standout talent in the art world.
• Rob & Romesh Vs (Series 9): Comedians Rob Beckett and Romesh Ranganathan return for four new episodes of their signature chaotic challenges. As always, the pair will throw themselves into unfamiliar industries to see if they can survive the learning curve.

Additional Premieres to Watch

• How to Make a Killing: A gritty story about a blue-collar worker (Glen Powell) attempting to reclaim his inheritance from an obscenely wealthy family.
• One Last Shot: A high-octane action thriller starring Scott Adkins and Dolph Lundgren, following a Navy SEAL attempting to stop a domestic terrorist from hijacking the U.S. missile defense system.
• Kiss of the Spider Woman: Directed by Bill Condon, this movie musical adaptation follows the unlikely bond between a political prisoner (Diego Luna) and a window dresser (Tonatiuh) in a cell where they escape reality by recounting the plot of a Technicolor musical starring Jennifer Lopez.
• Splitsville: A relationship comedy exploring the messy fallout of an open marriage, starring Dakota Johnson and Adria Arjona.
• Mother’s Pride: A lighthearted story from the producers of Fisherman’s Friends, focusing on a family fighting to save their local pub through the art of beer brewing.