Top 5 Must-Watch HBO Max Shows This Week: May 4–8, 2026

This week offers some fantastic streaming choices, including a brand new thriller from the creator of Baby Reindeer and the final season of a hugely popular HBO show. Whether you want a quick show to finish in one night or a longer series to enjoy over the month, HBO Max has something for everyone.

Bitcoin’s Grand Ballet: $1.18B Pirouette in Three Days!

Behold, the steady march of capital into these U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs, a testament to the unyielding desire of institutions. Yet, mark my words, this dance is led by but a few prima donnas, while the chorus remains silent. Bitcoin, ever the dramatic hero, has risen in tandem, breaching the psychological barrier with a flourish. Even Ether ETFs have joined the fray, though their steps are timid, their audience sparse.

Star Wars Confirms Return of Diego Luna’s Cassian Andor — Coming Soon

The first issue of the Star Wars: Rogue One – Cassian Andor comic book arrives on May 6, 2026. Marvel Comics describes it as a story that explores Cassian Andor’s past, showing him on a dangerous solo mission. According to Marvel, the story follows Andor as he goes undercover in the criminal world of Kafrene, trying to outrun both Imperial troopers and bounty hunters in a high-stakes spy adventure. Benjamin Percy writes the story, with art by Luke Ross.

The Best Movies of the Year So Far

Sophy Romvari’s film, Blue Heron, is a deeply personal story drawn from her own childhood. It focuses on her family’s move to Vancouver Island when she was young, and feels less like a traditional movie and more like an attempt to understand the past. Specifically, Romvari uses the film to explore the complexities of her older brother, Jeremy, and things she couldn’t understand as a child. The film delicately balances documentary and fictional elements, using re-creation to reveal a deeper, more honest truth. It’s a moving, yet heartbreaking, work. —Alison Willmore

The Odyssey Is Going to Be Epic

The newest trailer finally shows us the supporting characters in detail, with Robert Pattinson standing out as Antinous, one of the men trying to marry Penelope while her husband, Odysseus, is away. Pattinson’s character is marked by a menacing smile and a distinctly American accent, which he uses to mock Odysseus’s son, Telemachus, with the cutting remark, “You’re pining for a daddy.”

Missing VTuber Filian sparks concern after wiping content from the internet

Filian is a hugely popular independent VTuber, famous for her lively VRChat streams, funny physical comedy, and Minecraft videos. She’s also built a dedicated fan base called the “Snackers” and recently gained even more recognition by hosting the 2024 VTuber Awards, making her a well-known figure in the VTubing world.

Buffy Actor Nicholas Brendon’s Cause of Death Revealed

According to a report from the Putnam County Coroner’s office released on May 5th, Brendon died from heart disease caused by plaque buildup in his arteries and high blood pressure. Pneumonia and a previous heart attack also played a role. The coroner determined a 90% blockage in a major artery was the immediate cause of death.

4 Fantasy Anime Better Than Frieren

The anime Frieren has connected with a wide audience, both those who typically enjoy fantasy and those who don’t, thanks to its sweeping story and unique way of telling a fantasy tale – it starts after most similar anime would finish. While Frieren is already confirmed to return for a third season, there are other excellent fantasy anime available to enjoy in the meantime.

VTubers can use anime hands in real unboxing videos thanks to genius app

VTubers usually use software that lets a digital character move with their body while they’re live streaming. However, making the avatar’s hands match their real-world movements can be difficult. Some VTubers use extra tools for hand-tracking, while others just show their real hands on camera, which can sometimes make the stream feel less immersive.