BBC series named 'best crime show of 2026' and people can't wait to watch

If you've exhausted your list of TV series to binge-watch, there might be something on the horizon that will astound you.

Streaming platforms have paved the way for enthusiasts to enjoy an endless array of TV programmes and films from the cosiness of their own homes, with weekend binge-watching becoming a pastime for many.

Each year, there's usually one programme that garners more chatter than the rest, and in 2026, critics have predicted that the most talked-about series will be a forthcoming BBC crime drama.

Josh, a social media influencer who posts TV and film reviews under his jellyjoshin handle, advised everyone to add Mint to their must-watch list in anticipation of the series' "this spring" release.

Mint is a crime drama penned and directed by Charlotte Regan, acclaimed for her 2023 debut film, Scrapper. The series is set to broadcast on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, and it's currently earmarked for a "spring 2026" premiere, although no specific release date has been disclosed, indicating it could air within the next few months.

Details about the series remain scant, but reviewers like Josh have already had a sneak peek, and he reveals it traces the narrative of a woman named Shannon (portrayed by Emma Laird) who hails from a "crime family".

He stated: "She falls in love with the completely wrong person, who her family are against.

"The way this is filmed is like something I've never seen before. The fight sequences are so unique, and they look stunning. The cast felt so passionate about this project, and I can't wait for everyone else to see it."

Mint is set in Scotland and features the 28 Years Later and Mayor of Kingstown actress. Additionally, Benjamin Coyle-Larner - better recognised as the musician Loyle Carner - will make his on-screen debut in the series as Arran.

Lewis Gribben, Laura Fraser, Sam Riley, and Lindsay Duncan complete the ensemble of the eight-part series, which received its commission from the BBC in February 2024.

Discussing the programme, Josh said: "This is the best crime show of 2026. I've already seen it, and you need to add it to your watchlist immediately. It's going to be coming to BBC iPlayer, so make sure this is on your radar. At the end of the year, I'm telling you, Mint will be number one."

Respondents to Josh's video remarked that the programme appeared compelling, whilst others expressed divided views on the notion that it appears to be a contemporary interpretation of the legendary Shakespeare play, Romeo and Juliet, which similarly centres on warring families and a couple who fall in love despite their circumstances.

One person said: "High potential."

Another asked: "So it's a modern-day Romeo and Juliet?"

And a third seemed disappointed when they wrote: "Romeo and Juliet again..."

Mint will be available on BBC One and BBC iPlayer this spring.