The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2026 has revealed its highly anticipated Primetime program for television series, showcasing a diverse range of genres and international productions. The lineup includes world premieres of highly anticipated shows, setting the stage for an exciting festival from September 10–20.
Among the standout premieres is Yaga a supernatural thriller starring Hudson Williams and Carrie-Anne Moss. Based on the Slavic folkloric figure of the Baba Yaga, the series reimagines the myth as a contemporary mystery. Produced by Bell Media-owned Crave, Blink49 Studios, and Front Street Media, Yaga will have its world premiere at TIFF before streaming on AMC+ in the U.S.
Highlighting Canadian Talent and International Productions
The Primetime program opens with Below a Netflix drama directed by Jesse McKeown. Set in a remote Newfoundland town, the series follows the inhabitants as they confront a mysterious sea creature. The program will conclude with the premiere of Carrie Mike Flanagan’s reinvention of the Stephen King classic, which will be available on Prime Video.
Other notable premieres include American Hostage an anthology series from Shawn Ryan starring Jon Hamm, and Crystal Lake a Friday the 13th prequel series from A24. The latter will stream on Peacock and is directed by Brad Caleb Kane. Additionally, the new season of Apple TV’s Slow Horses will have an international premiere at the festival.
International Series and Diverse Genres
The festival’s TV lineup also features a selection of international series, including 2.6 Seconds: Death in the Outback from Australia, Alice from France, and Blindspot Berlin from Germany. From Brazil, Oxygen Masks Will (Not) Drop Automatically adds to the diverse programming.
Geoff Macnaughton, VP of Market Programming & Theatrical, has curated the Primetime section, ensuring a mix of genres and international productions. The lineup promises to deliver a rich and varied viewing experience for festival attendees.
The Full Primetime Lineup
Here is the complete list of series premiering in the Primetime program:
- 2.6 Seconds: Death in the Outback – Darren Dale (Australia)
- Alice – Virginie Verrier, Guillaume Lonergan (France, Canada)
- American Hostage – Shawn Ryan, Eileen Myers, Adam Arkin (U.S.)
- Below – Jesse McKeown (Canada)
- Blindspot Berlin – David Nawrath (Germany)
- Carrie – Mike Flanagan (Canada, U.S.)
- Crystal Lake – Brad Caleb Kane, Michael Lennox (U.S.)
- Oxygen Masks Will (Not) Drop Automatically – Marcelo Gomes, Carol Minêm (Brazil)
- Slow Horses – Will Smith, Adam Randall (UK, U.S.)
- Yaga – Kat Sandler, Rachel Talalay, David Frazee (Canada)
The Toronto International Film festival 2026 is set to be a celebration of television, offering a platform for both established and emerging creators to showcase their work. With a lineup that spans genres and borders, the Primetime program promises to be a highlight of the festival.
