Discovery Channel's annual Shark Week is back for its 38th year, bringing a week of thrilling shark documentaries, highly-interesting scientific explorations and fan-favorite franchises.
Running from July 26 to August 1, the event features 20 brand-new specials covering everything from shark behavior and attacks to advanced marine research and prehistoric predators.
When to watch Shark Week 2026?
Shark Week 2026 is set to kick off from today, July 26, and continues with nightly programming through Saturday, August 1.
Three shows will air each evening from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. ET, with the final premiere, Thresher Shark: Stun to Kill, scheduled for 9 p.m. ET on August 1.
The week starts with K-Pop Shark Heroes, featuring comedian Ken Jeong and singer Rei Ami, who explore shark conservation while challenging common misconceptions regarding the ocean's most misunderstood predators.
What to expect this year?
The 2026 lineup offers a blend of adventure, science and conservation-focused storytelling. Opening night also includes Air Jaws: Red, White and Breach and Invasion of the Mega Sharks.
Throughout the week, viewers can stream the interesting programs featuring shark attack survivors advocating for shark protection.
The event wraps up with the Great White Highway, examining the migration of great white sharks along the U.S. East Coast, followed by Thresher Shark: Stun to Kill that explores the phenomenal physics behind the thresher shark's powerful tail strike.
How to watch Shark Week 2026?
Shark Week 2026 airs exclusively live on the Discovery Channel, making it the primary destination for viewers who want to watch the premieres as they happen.
Those without cable can still catch every special. All Shark Week 2026 programming will be available to stream on Discovery+ and HBO Max, allowing viewers to watch live or catch up on episodes at their convenience throughout the week.
