Buzz
From a pop star's mysterious death at a high school reunion to a power-hungry game designer and ambitious immigrants adapting to life in America, Apple TV+ showcases a diverse array of captivating characters. (And, of course, there's also a soccer coach with no knowledge of the sport.)
Since its debut in 2019 with a mix of sci-fi and dramatic series, Apple TV+ has solidified its reputation as a top-tier streaming service, offering a variety of innovative, critically acclaimed shows that explore the fascinating complexities of human life. Here are 15 standout picks.
1. Ted Lasso (2020-present)
Ted Lasso (Jason Sudeikis), an oddly charming American football coach, finds himself out of his depth when Rebecca Welton (Hannah Waddingham), a football club owner, hires him to sabotage her own team. Despite the team's struggles, his genuine kindness and optimism win over everyone around him. The show's second season delves deeper, adding layers of complexity and creativity, making it a must-watch that your friends have probably already recommended.
2. Little America (2020-present)
Little America is a heartfelt and humorous anthology that follows the lives of eight immigrant families striving to carve out their place in the United States. Created by the minds behind The Big Sick and Master of None, the series masterfully captures the mix of absurdity, isolation, and triumph that comes with navigating a new world full of opportunities.
3. The Afterparty (2022-present)
When the insufferable celebrity Xavier (Dave Franco) meets his demise at a high school reunion afterparty, every attendee becomes a suspect due to their shared disdain for him. Led by Tiffany Haddish as the sharp-witted detective, the stellar comedic cast includes Sam Richardson (Veep), Ilana Glazer (Broad City), and Ben Schwartz (Parks and Rec). Each episode adopts a unique genre and perspective, unraveling the mystery through the eyes of different partygoers.
4. Severance (2022-present)
At Lumon Industries, employees undergo a radical procedure that completely divides their work memories from their personal ones, ensuring the two never overlap. Once inside the office, they forget their outside lives, and upon leaving, their work memories vanish. Mark S. (Adam Scott), after a promotion, is approached in his personal life by a former colleague claiming to be his close friend, plunging him into a deep investigation of the company's true motives. This gripping psychological thriller also serves as a compelling case for remote work. To heighten its eerie realism, Lumon Industries even set up a LinkedIn page
5. Mythic Quest (2020-present)
Ian Grimm (Rob McElhenney) is laser-focused on releasing the groundbreaking expansion for Mythic Quest, his cherished online RPG, while ensuring he gets all the glory. However, he must first navigate clashes with the team responsible for the game's actual development. Mythic Quest is a high-energy workplace comedy that humorously tackles the chaos of creating realistic video game effects, like exploding heads, no matter how many watermelons it takes.
While McElhenney is renowned for creating It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, he isn't the only Sunny alum involved. He co-created the series with Sunny star, writer, and executive producer Charlie Day, alongside writer and executive producer Megan Ganz. David Hornsby, who portrays David in Mythic Quest, also serves as a writer and executive producer for both shows, in addition to playing Sunny's endearing yet troubled Rickety Cricket.
6. El Deafo (2022-present)
Cece Bell, a young rabbit, relies on a Phonic Ear hearing aid to navigate her world. Feeling isolated from her peers, she transforms into her superhero persona, El Deafo, finding the courage to build meaningful friendships. Inspired by creator Cece Bell's own childhood experiences (though she isn't an animated rabbit in real life), this children's series is both entertaining and heartwarming, offering something special for parents as well.
7. Swagger (2021-present)
Swagger mirrors the intensity of Friday Night Lights, but centers on youth basketball. With standout performances from O'Shea Jackson Jr. (Straight Outta Compton) and Isaiah Hill, this gripping sports drama explores the lives of its characters both on and off the court as they chase greatness and use basketball to cope with life's challenges. Produced by NBA star Kevin Durant, the series is partially inspired by his personal journey.
8. The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey (2022-present)
Ptolemy Grey (Samuel L. Jackson), a man suffering from dementia, is offered a chance to regain his memories temporarily, knowing it will ultimately worsen his condition. He takes the risk, reliving his past and uncovering the truth behind his nephew's death. Created by crime fiction icon Walter Mosley, this powerful and unique series captivates with its emotional depth and originality.
9. Mr. Corman (2021)
Mr. Corman (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) once dreamed of rock stardom but now teaches at a public school, grappling with anxiety and depression over his unfulfilled aspirations. Blending reality with imaginative fantasy, this heartfelt and humorous series delves into the struggles of accepting life's imperfections and unfairness.
10. The Morning Show (2019-present)
Apple TV+'s flagship series, starring Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, and plenty of heated confrontations, centers on the rivalry between a seasoned morning show host and a rising star. Adapted from Brian Stelter's book Top of the Morning: Inside the Cutthroat World of Morning TV, this gripping drama boasts an exceptional cast, including Mark Duplass, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Billy Crudup, and Steve Carell, as it explores power dynamics and truth in the world of broadcast news.
11. Dr. Brain (2021-present)
Sewon (Parasite's Lee Sun-kyun), a brilliant but unconventional scientist, delves into the minds of the deceased to uncover the truth behind his family's tragic accident. As he absorbs their memories, his own consciousness begins to blur the lines between his reality and theirs. Created by Kim Jee-Woon, the acclaimed South Korean director of A Tale of Two Sisters and I Saw the Devil, this series masterfully blends psychological intrigue with gripping sci-fi and detective storytelling.
12. Dickinson (2019-2021)
This clever series reimagines the formative years of Emily Dickinson, played by Hailee Steinfeld, with a modern twist on language and attitudes. It vividly brings Dickinson's poetry to life while boldly challenging the restrictive gender and societal norms of her time, even if it takes creative liberties with historical accuracy.
13. Harriet the Spy (2021-present)
This new adaptation of the beloved children's book features Beanie Feldstein and Jane Lynch lending their voices to introduce the inquisitive Harriet to a fresh audience. Produced by The Jim Henson Company, the series captures Harriet's adventurous nature as she balances school, friendships, and her insatiable curiosity in a lively and humorous way.
14. Pachinko (2022-present)
Based on Min Jin Lee's acclaimed novel, this sweeping generational drama stars Youn Yuh-jung as Sunja, a Korean woman striving for a better life under Japanese occupation. The series beautifully captures the profound cultural and personal transformations experienced by one family, blending grand historical scope with deeply personal storytelling. The meticulous production brings both the vastness and intimacy of the narrative to life.
15. Schmigadoon! (2021-present)
Josh (Keegan-Michael Key) and Melissa (Cecily Strong) hope a hiking trip will mend their troubled relationship, but they stumble into the whimsical, musical world of Schmigadoon. Trapped in a living musical, they navigate the town's relentlessly cheerful inhabitants and a series of song-and-dance parodies. The show's delightful absurdity is perfectly balanced by Strong and Key's sharp wit, with standout performances from Kristin Chenoweth, Martin Short, Alan Cumming, and Jane Krakowski adding to the charm.
