If you're anything like me, you probably get that sudden, inexplicable urge to hear the roar of an F-14 Tomcat or see Tom Cruise sprint across a flight deck in a flight suit. It happens. But then you sit down, remote in hand, and realize the streaming landscape has changed—again. You're left staring at the search bar wondering what is Top Gun streaming on right now?
Honestly, it’s a bit of a moving target. In 2026, the short answer is that Paramount+ is your primary home for both the 1986 original and the 2022 blockbuster Top Gun: Maverick. Since Paramount Pictures produced these movies, they keep them close to the vest to drive those monthly subscriptions.
Where to Find Maverick and the OG Classic
Right now, if you want to watch Pete Mitchell defy the laws of physics and his superior officers, Paramount+ is the most consistent bet. It’s been the "forever home" for the franchise since Maverick shattered box office records.
But there’s a catch. Licensing deals are weird. Sometimes a movie will hop over to Prime Video or MGM+ for a few months because of some fine-print agreement signed years ago. As of early 2026, you might also find Top Gun: Maverick popping up on Hulu or Disney+ in certain regions due to bundled service agreements, but Paramount+ is the only one where it stays put.
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- Paramount+: Both movies (usually in 4K).
- Prime Video: Often available via the Paramount+ add-on channel.
- FuboTV: Occasionally carries it for those with live TV packages.
- Netflix: Generally a "no-go" in the US, though it occasionally appears in international libraries like Japan or Brazil.
Why Can't I Find It on Netflix?
You’ve probably noticed that the "big red N" is missing the biggest action movie of the decade. It’s not an accident. Streaming services have moved away from the "one-stop-shop" model of the 2010s and into the "walled garden" era. Paramount Global wants you in their ecosystem.
They know Top Gun is a "sticky" title. That’s industry speak for a movie that keeps people from hitting the cancel button. If they licensed it to Netflix, they’d be giving away their biggest carrot.
Digital Purchases: The "Buy Once, Fly Forever" Strategy
If you're tired of chasing the licensing dragon, honestly, just buy the digital version. I finally caved and bought the "Top Gun 2-Movie Collection" on Apple TV (formerly iTunes).
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The 4K HDR transfer on Maverick is breathtaking, especially if you have a decent OLED screen. You can also grab it on Vudu (Fandango at Home), Google Play, or Amazon. It usually goes on sale for around $10 to $15 during holiday weekends. Considering how often people rewatch these, it’s basically the price of two months of streaming.
The 40th Anniversary Factor
2026 is actually a massive year for the franchise because it's the 40th anniversary of the original 1986 Top Gun. Because of this, keep an eye out for limited theatrical re-releases. There is nothing like seeing that opening sequence on a massive IMAX screen with the "Danger Zone" bass vibrating in your chest.
What About Top Gun 3?
The rumors are swirling like a dogfight. We know a third movie is in development with Miles Teller and Glen Powell expected to return alongside Cruise. While there’s no official release date yet, the hype alone is keeping the first two movies at the top of the "most-watched" lists. This also means Paramount is even less likely to let the streaming rights drift to a competitor anytime soon.
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Quick Tips for the Best Experience
Don't just stream it on your phone. If you're watching Maverick for the first time—or the tenth—check your settings.
- Turn off Motion Smoothing: Your TV's "Soap Opera Effect" ruins the cinematic look of the aerial stunts.
- Check for Dolby Atmos: Both films have incredible sound design. If you have a soundbar or headphones that support spatial audio, use them.
- The "Legacy" Watch: If you’re introducing a friend to the series, start with the 1986 original. The emotional payoff with "Iceman" in the sequel doesn't hit the same way without that history.
Basically, if you have a Paramount+ sub, you're cleared for takeoff. If not, check your Amazon Prime "Channels" to see if you have a free trial waiting for you.
To get the most out of your viewing, verify if your current TV provider (like Xfinity or DirecTV) includes a Paramount+ subscription for free, as many high-tier plans have started bundling it to compete with standalone streamers.