As the year 2025 draws to a close, the pace of new streaming releases has slowed, offering audiences the perfect opportunity to revisit the finest movies, television shows, music, and video games of the past twelve months. For those looking to catch up, The Associated Press provides comprehensive guides on the year's best releases through its dedicated Year in Review page. This week's fresh offerings cleverly blend music and television, perfectly timed for New Year's Eve celebrations, while Netflix prepares to bid a monumental farewell to one of its flagship series.
A Star-Studded Soundtrack for New Year's Eve
With the new year almost here, viewers have a dazzling array of televised celebrations to choose from. A standout option is "Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest," which promises an unforgettable lineup of musical performances. This special, available for online streaming via ABC.com, features a powerhouse roster of artists set to usher in 2026.
Audiences can expect to see and hear live acts from a wide spectrum of genres, including:
- Chappell Roan and Demi Lovato
- Hip-hop icons like 50 Cent, Chance the Rapper, and Busta Rhymes
- Legendary performer Diana Ross
- Popular acts such as Ciara, Charlie Puth, and AJR
- Artists like 4 Non Blondes, 6lack, and BigXThaPlug
This concert provides a fantastic, family-friendly way to celebrate the transition into the new year from the comfort of your home.
The Final Chapter in Hawkins: Stranger Things Says Goodbye
Earlier on New Year's Eve, before the countdown begins, a major cultural event will unfold on Netflix. The global phenomenon "Stranger Things" will release its highly anticipated series finale, marking the end of an era that began in 2016. The eighth and final episode of Season 5 is scheduled to drop on Netflix at 8 p.m. Eastern Time.
The finale will see the beloved residents of Hawkins, Indiana—including Millie Bobby Brown's Eleven, Finn Wolfhard's Mike, Sadie Sink's Max, and Noah Schnapp's Will—engage in one last, epic confrontation with the sinister entity Vecna. Fans across India and the world have been speculating intensely about which characters might survive this ultimate battle, adding to the episode's immense hype. This event is poised to be one of Netflix's biggest streaming nights, potentially shattering viewership records.
In a unique move, Netflix is also screening this climactic episode in several hundred movie theaters worldwide, allowing fans to experience the conclusion on the big screen.
Making the Most of Year-End Streaming
The slowdown in new content is a blessing in disguise for Indian audiences. It allows time to explore the AP's curated 'Year in Review' selections, ensuring you haven't missed any of 2025's critical or popular hits across all entertainment platforms. Whether it's the emotional payoff of a long-running series like Stranger Things or the communal joy of a live New Year's broadcast, this week offers tailored streaming options to suit every mood as we close the chapter on 2025.
