Buzz
Ted Lasso, a heartwarming comedy about an American football coach transitioning to soccer in the U.K., was Apple TV+'s initial major success, though it has since concluded. While no other show has captured the public's attention quite like Ted, Apple TV+ has gradually developed a modest yet impressive collection of original series, ranging from intriguing to excellent, with some truly exceptional entries.
While Apple's catalog still falls short of Netflix or Hulu in terms of sheer quantity, the tech giant's deep pockets have allowed it to take creative risks, especially in high-budget genres like science fiction, which has proven to be a worthwhile endeavor.
Below is a curated list of 35 standout Apple TV+ originals. I’ve focused on lesser-known gems, so while Ted Lasso isn’t included, consider this a nod to its legacy.
Sugar (2024 – )
Sugar embraces its classic Hollywood noir influences with pride: its characters are inspired by the archetypal antiheroes of the past, and vintage film clips are interwoven to emphasize this homage. The plot revolves around detective John Sugar (Colin Farrell), who is called to investigate the disappearance of a movie mogul's (James Cromwell) granddaughter. Though only a few episodes have aired, whispers of a major twist are already circulating. What stands out so far is Sugar's refreshingly kind demeanor in a genre that typically glorifies hardened protagonists. Created by Mark Protosevich (The Cell, I Am Legend) and directed by Fernando Meirelles (City of God), the series exudes sophistication and flair.
Pachinko (2022 – , renewed for a second season)
Though classified as an American production, Pachinko features a predominantly South Korean cast and crew, aligning it with the wave of K-Dramas that have gained popularity in the U.S. This sweeping multigenerational tale chronicles the life of a woman (Youn Yuh-jung and Kim Min-ha) and her family, spanning from Korea's Japanese occupation to the diaspora era. The series masterfully balances intimate storytelling with grand visuals, boasting cinematography that rivals major films, alongside an unforgettable opening sequence. A second season is confirmed, though its release date remains unknown.
Bad Sisters (2022 – , renewed for a second season)
The comedy murder mystery genre is thriving, with hits like Hulu’s Only Murders in the Building, Apple’s The Afterparty (which I’ll revisit later), and the Knives Out films. Bad Sisters fits into this trend but distinguishes itself with its unique Dublin backdrop and dark humor. The series isn’t just about uncovering the truth behind a murder—it’s also about cheering for the killer, whoever they might be. The story centers on a group of sisters, one of whom is married to a despicable man. When he dies, it becomes clear that each sister (including one portrayed by Catastrophe's Sharon Horgan, who also co-created the show) had a compelling motive.
Severance (2022 – , renewed for a second season)
In a world where late-stage capitalism pushes the idea of 'work-life balance' while rendering it unattainable, Severance offers a chilling solution. Lumon Industries, a biotech giant, has developed a procedure to divide employees' consciousness between their work and personal lives. The show’s protagonists (played by Adam Scott, Jack Cherry, Britt Lower, and others) find their work and home selves diverging so drastically that they become two distinct individuals. Blending office satire with the dystopian vibes of films like Brazil and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, the series critiques the perils of modern capitalism and highlights how technology often exacerbates the problems it claims to solve.
The Buccaneers (2023 – , renewed for a second season)
Revitalizing the period drama genre, The Buccaneers takes inspiration from Edith Wharton’s unfinished novel, following five wealthy American sisters sent to Europe to marry into aristocratic families. The show strikes a balance between the historical authenticity of HBO’s The Gilded Age and the playful modern twists of Bridgerton. With its strong female leads and lively storytelling, it’s a fresh take on the clash between new money and old-world traditions.
Hijack (2023 – , renewed for a second season)
In this gripping action thriller, Idris Elba plays a corporate negotiator who becomes a key figure aboard a hijacked flight from London to Dubai. As the only passenger with the skills to potentially save everyone, he must rely on his expertise, intellect, and physical prowess. The series unfolds in real time, heightening the tension, though the announcement of a second season raises questions about how the story will continue. If 24 managed nine seasons, Elba’s character, Sam Nelson, surely has more adventures ahead.
For All Mankind (2019 — , renewed for fourth season)
While a compelling premise is essential, execution is paramount, and For All Mankind delivers brilliantly under the guidance of writer/co-creator Ronald D. Moore (Battlestar Galactica). The series explores an intriguing alternate history: what if Soviet space visionary Sergei Korolev had lived longer, propelling the USSR’s space program to new heights and prolonging the space race? By imagining a world where space exploration advanced further and faster, the show offers a fascinating glimpse into an alternate past and future, spanning multiple decades.
Dickinson (2019 – 2021, two seasons)
Dickinson stands out for its deliberate eccentricity, earning praise not just for its uniqueness but for its quality. The series reimagines the life of 19th-century poet Emily Dickinson, portraying her as a misfit in her own era through clever anachronisms and contemporary perspectives. Comparable to Netflix’s Bridgerton or Sofia Coppola’s
Visible: Out on Television (2020, miniseries)
A modern successor to The Celluloid Closet, Visible leverages Apple’s resources to assemble an impressive roster of interviewees. The docuseries chronicles the evolution of LGBTQ+ representation on television, from its early days of coded messages and stereotypes to the present era of greater visibility. It celebrates progress while underscoring the ongoing need for improvement, offering an engaging and insightful look at the journey so far.
Manhunt (2024 – )
Adapted from James L. Swanson’s Manhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln’s Killer, this series meticulously recounts the events surrounding Abraham Lincoln’s assassination by John Wilkes Booth (Anthony Boyle). It delves into the aftermath, exploring the political and cultural repercussions during the early days of Reconstruction. Tobias Menzies delivers a standout performance as Edwin Stanton, the war secretary striving to uphold Lincoln’s legacy. The show also draws striking, if unintentional, parallels between Booth’s toxic traits—violent racism, arrogance, and a victim complex—and certain contemporary political figures.
The Last Thing He Told Me (2023 – , renewed for a second season)
The Last Thing He Told Me has sparked mixed reactions, with critics offering lukewarm reviews while audiences have made it Apple TV+'s most-watched limited series. Adapted from Laura Dave’s bestselling novel, its success may stem from the book’s popularity and Jennifer Garner’s heartfelt portrayal. Initially planned as a limited series, its renewal for a second season will be based on a forthcoming sequel novel, set to release in 2025. Alongside Angourie Rice, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, and David Morse, Garner’s character navigates a deepening relationship with her stepdaughter as they unravel the mystery of her husband’s disappearance.
Monarch: Legacy of Monsters (2023 – , renewed for a second season)
Monarch skillfully carves out its own narrative within the expansive Godzilla cinematic universe, grounding the colossal tales in human drama while expanding the Monsterverse lore. Anna Sawai plays a teacher on a quest to find her father, who vanished after Godzilla’s 2014 attack on San Francisco. Her journey uncovers the secrets of a covert government agency, with Wyatt and Kurt Russell portraying the same character across different timelines, bridging the past and present of the unfolding saga.
See (2019 — 2022, three seasons)
The concept behind this series must have sparked some lively discussions. Imagine a futuristic take on H.G. Wells’ The Country of the Blind, where being one of the few sighted individuals in a blind society doesn’t guarantee any advantages. Set centuries in the future, the show explores a world where sight is a rarity, and those who possess it are hunted and shunned. While the premise might seem quirky (and reviews have been mixed), the series combines the grandeur of Game of Thrones with dystopian sci-fi, featuring standout performances by Jason Momoa and the ever-talented Alfre Woodard.
Central Park (2020 — 2022, three seasons)
From the minds of Loren Bouchard, Josh Gad, and Nora Smith, Central Park shares the visual charm and humor of Bouchard’s iconic Bob’s Burgers, making it an easy sell for fans of adult animation. However, it sets itself apart with a more ambitious narrative, focusing on a park manager’s battle to protect Central Park from profit-driven developers. The show also embraces its identity as a full-fledged musical, with elaborate song-and-dance numbers in every episode—a delightful expansion of the musical elements that made Bob’s Burgers so memorable.
Foundation (2021 —, renewed for a third season)
While Foundation often strays from the core themes of Isaac Asimov’s seminal novels, it stands tall as a visually stunning and ambitious sci-fi saga. Starring Lou Llobel and Lee Pace, the series spans centuries, following a group of intellectuals and revolutionaries determined to dismantle a galactic empire to ensure its survival. The first season was impressive, but the second season elevated the storytelling to even greater heights.
Silo (2023 —, renewed for a second season)
This sci-fi series boasts an exceptional ensemble cast, including Rebecca Ferguson, Rashida Jones, David Oyelowo, Common, and Tim Robbins. Adapted from Hugh Howey’s self-published hit Wool, the story unfolds in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity’s remnants reside in a massive 144-story silo. This sealed environment serves as both a sanctuary and a prison, with layers of societal intrigue and mystery woven into its dystopian fabric.
Schmigadoon! (2021 — 2023)
Schmigadoon radiates a theatrical charm, packed with references and humor that might fly over some heads but delight theater enthusiasts. The story follows Melissa (Cecily Strong) and Josh (Keegan-Michael Key), who, during a relationship-repairing camping trip, find themselves in a whimsical town where everyone communicates through song. To escape, they must discover true love—something they thought they already had. The show cleverly parodies and pays homage to classic musicals, with its second season shifting to a 1970s-inspired “Schmicago” setting, tackling darker musical themes.
The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin (2024 – )
Noel Fielding, known for The Great British Bake Off, leads this wildly fictionalized British series about the infamous 18th-century highwayman Dick Turpin. Blurring the lines between fact and folklore, the show leans into legend, infusing the story with absurd humor. While it doesn’t quite reach the heights of Our Flag Means Death, it shares a similarly playful and irreverent take on historical storytelling.
Masters of the Air (2024)
A thematic follow-up to the acclaimed WWII miniseries Band of Brothers (2001) and The Pacific (2010), Masters of the Air centers on the “Bloody Hundredth,” the 100th Bomb Group responsible for perilous missions over Nazi-occupied Europe. The series features a stellar cast, including Austin Butler (Elvis), Barry Keoghan (Saltburn), and Ncuti Gatwa (Doctor Who).
Constellation (2024 – )
With hits like Severance, Foundation, For All Mankind, and Silo, Apple TV+ has carved out a niche for ambitious, high-concept sci-fi. Constellation continues this trend, following astronaut Noomi Rapace as she returns to Earth after a disaster, only to find her reality altered in unsettling ways.
Criminal Record (2024 – , renewed for a second season)
Peter Capaldi, known for his charming real-life persona, brings a chilling intensity to his role as a seasoned detective with a troubled history. Opposite him is Cush Jumbo’s June Lenker, a principled and optimistic detective who questions both Capaldi’s DCI Hegarty and the details of the cold case they’re revisiting. Their dynamic evokes a darker, more grounded version of Mulder and Scully, minus the extraterrestrial elements.
The Morning Show (2019 — , renewed for a fourth season)
While not as conceptually ambitious as some of Apple’s other offerings, The Morning Show delivers compelling drama, anchored by Jennifer Aniston’s standout performance as Alex Levy, a veteran morning show co-host. When her longtime colleague Mitch (Steve Carell) is abruptly fired for misconduct, Alex must navigate the fallout, leading to a series of power struggles and alliances. Inspired by Brian Stelter’s Top of the Morning, the series offers a gripping, behind-the-scenes look at the high-stakes world of morning television.
The Me That You Can’t See (2021, miniseries)
A collaboration between Oprah Winfrey and Prince Harry might initially raise eyebrows, but this miniseries proves its value by tackling mental health issues with sincerity and depth. Featuring candid interviews with celebrities and everyday individuals from diverse backgrounds, it sheds light on the stigma surrounding mental illness and the challenges of accessing care. While the production is polished, its focus on expanding conversations about mental health makes it a meaningful watch.
Truth Be Told (2019 — 2023, three seasons)
Octavia Spencer’s presence alone makes this series compelling, but the stellar cast—including Lizzy Caplan, Aaron Paul, Mekhi Phifer, and Kate Hudson—elevates it further. Spencer portrays a true crime podcaster who reexamines a case she once reported on, only to discover potential errors in her conclusions. Though the first season has its flaws, the show improves significantly in its second and third seasons.
The Afterparty (2022 — 2023, two seasons)
A murder at a high school reunion afterparty sets the stage for this clever comedy mystery. Each episode revisits the night through the perspective of a different attendee, adopting unique genre styles to reflect their personalities. Tiffany Haddish and Sam Richardson shine as the leads, adding humor and intrigue to the unfolding drama.
Little America (2020 — 2022, two seasons)
This heartfelt anthology brings to life stories from Epic Magazine, focusing on the experiences of immigrants in America. Each 30-minute episode is a compact yet emotionally rich narrative, blending humor, heartbreak, and joy. The series concludes each story with a nod to the real-life individuals who inspired it, adding a layer of authenticity and depth.
Home Before Dark (2020 — 2021, two seasons)
Inspired by the remarkable true story of Hilde Lysiak, a young journalist who began her career at age 9, Home Before Dark follows the fictionalized Hilde Lisko (Brooklynn Prince). After moving to a mysterious coastal town, she tenaciously investigates a decades-old cold case, channeling the eerie vibes of Twin Peaks while showcasing her relentless pursuit of the truth.
Servant (2019 — 2023)
This eerie psychological thriller, co-executive-produced by M. Night Shyamalan and created by Tony Basgallop, combines a mysterious nanny with an unsettling doll. The story revolves around a grieving couple, Lauren Ambrose and Toby Kebbell, who, after losing their infant son, use a lifelike doll as a coping mechanism. However, the doll—and their new nanny—harbor unsettling secrets, creating a tense and unnerving atmosphere.
Ghostwriter (2019 — 2022, three seasons)
A modern reboot of the ‘90s classic, this version of Ghostwriter shifts focus from pure mystery to emphasizing literacy and storytelling. Set in a bookstore owned by the grandfather of two main characters, the show follows four kids who team up with a ghost that brings literary characters to life. While the CGI varies in quality, the series excels in portraying intelligent, relatable kids, making it a standout for younger audiences.
Defending Jacob (2020, miniseries)
Adapted from William Landay’s novel, this gripping miniseries follows Andy (Chris Evans) and Laurie (Michelle Dockery) as their lives unravel after their 14-year-old son is accused of murdering a classmate. Set in an affluent Massachusetts suburb, the show balances melodrama with strong performances and a captivating central mystery that keeps viewers hooked.
Black Bird (2022, miniseries)
Developed by novelist Dennis Lehane (Gone Baby Gone, Mystic River), this true-story-inspired miniseries showcases his signature style. Taron Egerton stars as Jimmy Keene, a former football star serving a decade-long sentence for drug trafficking. His life takes a dramatic turn when he’s offered a deal: freedom in exchange for infiltrating a maximum-security prison for the criminally insane to extract a confession from a suspected serial killer. The gripping premise and Egerton’s stellar performance make this a must-watch.
Trying (2020 — , renewed for fourth season)
This heartfelt comedy follows Nikki and Jason as they navigate the complexities of adoption after struggling to conceive. Unlike biological parenthood, adoption involves a rigorous process of screenings, classes, and home visits, all of which the series portrays with humor and warmth. Each episode concludes with updates on the characters, adding a touching layer of closure and connection.
Mythic Quest (2020 — , renewed for a fourth season)
While it may seem niche, the backdrop of a video game development studio provides fertile ground for dark, sharp comedy, especially given the industry’s notorious working conditions. Charlotte Nicdao and Rob McElhenney lead the cast as a work-obsessed genius and a socially inept narcissist, respectively. Their dynamic chemistry fuels the show’s humor and energy, making it a standout workplace comedy.
Acapulco (2021 – , renewed for a third season)
Based on the 2017 film How to Be a Latin Lover, this bilingual comedy follows Maximo Gallardo Ramos (Eugenio Derbez), a wealthy Malibu entrepreneur who started his career as a pool boy at a luxurious resort. The series, with its vibrant retro aesthetic, offers a heartwarming and visually stunning journey across generations.
Slow Horses (2022 – , renewed for fourth and fifth seasons)
Channeling the spirit of John le Carré’s spy classics, Slow Horses modernizes the genre while retaining its suspense and sophistication. The titular “Slow Horses” are a group of disgraced MI5 agents relegated to mundane tasks, led by Gary Oldman and Jack Lowden, with Kristin Scott Thomas as their enigmatic spymaster. Despite their low expectations, the team is thrust into high-stakes espionage, blending dry humor with themes of redemption and resilience.
