As the holiday season approaches, Netflix is ready to spread some cheer with an exciting array of new films and series set to debut in December. This month promises a blend of festive spirit and engaging storytelling, perfect for cozy nights in. From romantic comedies to insightful documentaries, let’s dive into what’s in store for subscribers this December.
Holiday specials and popular returns
On December 3, viewers can tune into the holiday episode of With Love, Meghan, hosted by Meghan Markle, alongside the charming romantic comedy My Secret Santa, featuring Alexandra Breckenridge from Virgin River. Following this, the platform will release both the iconic 2004 film Mean Girls and its vibrant musical remake, showcasing memorable performances of “Jingle Bell Rock” and “Rockin’ Around the Pole”.
Unscripted content and documentaries
December also brings a plethora of unscripted entertainment, including comedy specials from controversial figures like Matt Rife with Matt Rife: Unwrapped—A Christmas Crowd Work Special on December 2, and Ricky Gervais with Mortality on December 30. The month also introduces the highly anticipated Netflix documentary Evil Influencer: The Jodi Hildebrandt Story, focused on the contentious figure of Ruby Franke, set to air on December 30.
For documentary enthusiasts, December 5 sees the release of The New Yorker at 100, exploring the legacy of the renowned publication, while Simon Cowell: The Next Act premieres on December 10, providing a closer look at the music mogul’s endeavors.
Star-studded films and series to watch
A notable highlight this month is Jay Kelly, an awards season drama featuring George Clooney as an aging movie star. As the film dives into the complexities of fame and self-reflection, it will be available on December 5, accompanied by a behind-the-scenes documentary. Also on December 12, Rian Johnson expands his successful mystery franchise with Wake Up Dead Man, where detective Benoit Blanc, played by Daniel Craig, teams up with a young priest to unravel mysteries in a small-town church.
Returning favorites and new adventures
Fans of Emily in Paris can rejoice as the series returns on December 18, taking our beloved American protagonist, Emily, from Paris to Rome, where romance complicates her life with a new character, Marcello. Meanwhile, the much-anticipated conclusion of Stranger Things arrives on December 25, with the final volume of its fifth season, followed by a special series finale released on December 31. Viewers will join the crew from Hawkins, Indiana, as they face the looming threat of Vecna.
A look ahead and classic fare
In addition to the exciting new content, Netflix is also bidding farewell to some beloved films and series at the end of the year. Iconic titles like Austin Powers, Back to the Future, and Beverly Hills Cop will depart the platform on December 1, alongside classics such as Clueless and E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. Fans are encouraged to binge these beloved films before they leave.
With a delightful mix of holiday cheer and compelling stories, Netflix’s December lineup promises something for everyone, making it the perfect backdrop for cozy evenings spent at home. Whether you’re in the mood for a heartwarming romantic comedy or a gripping documentary, this month is set to deliver plenty of entertainment to enjoy.

