Everything Leaving HBO Max This Week, Including a Cuban Biopic
Streaming libraries regularly update their catalogs as licensing agreements expire and make room for upcoming programming. Subscribers looking to catch acclaimed music documentaries and classic cinema have limited time before several notable titles depart from Max. Keeping track of scheduled removal dates ensures viewers can prioritize these selections before they become unavailable on the service. The following four titles are departing the platform throughout the final week of August 2026.
‘Mavis!’ (2015)
Directed by Jessica Edwards, ‘Mavis!’ is a biographical music documentary that chronicles the life and enduring career of gospel and soul icon Mavis Staples. The film tracks her journey from her early days performing with The Staple Singers to her prominent role soundtracking the civil rights movement and collaborating with contemporary artists. Featuring archival performance footage and candid interviews with musicians like Bob Dylan and Jeff Tweedy, the documentary highlights her cultural and musical legacy. This film is scheduled to leave the Max streaming library on August 24, 2026.
‘Gente de Zona: En Letra de Otro’ (2018)
‘Gente de Zona: En Letra de Otro’ captures the Cuban reggaeton duo Alexander Delgado and Randy Malcom as they perform their unique renditions of classic Latin songs. Filmed in Havana, the music special features live performances against the backdrop of the city alongside interviews discussing the musical influences that shaped their careers. The documentary special was produced as part of HBO Latino’s ongoing concert series highlighting influential Latin artists. Subscribers have until August 27, 2026, to stream the performance before it is removed from the Max catalog.
‘The Poet of Havana’ (2015)
Directed by Ron Chapman, ‘The Poet of Havana’ explores the life, music, and cultural impact of celebrated Cuban singer-songwriter Carlos Varela. The documentary examines Varela’s role as a lyrical voice for freedom of expression and a chronicler of his nation’s social complexities over several decades. Narrated by actor Benicio del Toro, the film includes interviews with international artists such as Jackson Browne alongside live concert performances filmed in Havana. This musical portrait will officially depart the Max platform on August 27, 2026.
‘My Favorite Wife’ (1940)
Directed by Garson Kanin, ‘My Favorite Wife’ is a classic screwball romantic comedy starring Irene Dunne and Cary Grant. The storyline follows a woman who returns home after being shipwrecked on a deserted island for seven years, only to discover that her husband has just had her declared legally dead and remarried. As comedic complications escalate, the husband attempts to navigate his feelings and untangle the chaotic situation without alienating either woman. The Oscar-nominated feature will remain available on Max until its departure on August 30, 2026.
Share which of these departing titles you plan to watch first in the comments.
