Apple TV+ has grown into a strong player in the streaming world since its launch. The service offers a mix of shows across many genres, from sci-fi to comedy to drama. The best Apple TV+ shows include critically acclaimed hits like Severance, Ted Lasso, Dope Thief, and Mythic Quest, which have helped the platform stand out in a crowded market.
While newer than some streaming giants, Apple has quickly built a solid library of high-quality shows. Many Apple originals have won awards and praise from critics and viewers alike. The platform keeps adding new content each month, giving subscribers more reasons to stay tuned in.
1. Severance
Severance is the best show on Apple TV+ according to many viewers. It features a unique concept that has grabbed audiences since its debut.
The show stars Adam Scott, Britt Lower, and Patricia Arquette, with the cast earning much praise for their performances. Their work helped the series win two Emmy Awards already.
The plot centers on workers who undergo a procedure to separate their work memories from their personal lives. This “severance” creates fascinating questions about identity and consciousness.
Season 2 recently launched in early 2025 and broke viewing records for Apple TV+. It became the platform’s most-watched series based on unique viewers from January through February 2025.
Critics count Severance among the most acclaimed new shows of the 2020s. The writing takes a clever concept and expands it in unexpected directions that keep viewers guessing.
Some fans have compared its storytelling quality to HBO’s Chernobyl, considering it possibly the best TV show since 2019. The mix of mystery, sci-fi, and workplace drama creates something truly special.
The show’s striking visual style helps tell its story. The stark contrast between the sterile work environment and the outside world reflects the characters’ split lives.
Season 2 has received some criticism about its pacing problems, but this hasn’t stopped fans from tuning in. The story’s progression remains thrilling despite these concerns.
Viewers can watch Severance exclusively on Apple TV+. The streaming service has positioned the show as one of its flagship series to attract subscribers.
The show asks big questions about work-life balance in a way that feels both timely and timeless. Its exploration of corporate control resonates with many modern workers.
2. Ted Lasso
Ted Lasso is one of Apple TV+‘s biggest success stories. This heartwarming comedy about an American football coach hired to manage an English soccer team has won 11 Emmy Awards and countless fans worldwide.
Jason Sudeikis stars as the mustached, optimistic coach who brings his unique coaching style and endless positivity to AFC Richmond. His character shows how kindness can change a workplace and the people in it.
The show features a strong supporting cast including Hannah Waddingham as team owner Rebecca Welton and Juno Temple as marketing expert Keeley Jones. Their performances add depth to the show’s emotional core.
Ted Lasso offers more than just laughs. It tackles tough topics like mental health, divorce, and professional failure with surprising grace.
The writing balances humor with heart. Jokes land perfectly without feeling forced, while emotional moments hit hard without being overdone.
What makes Ted Lasso special is its focus on growth. Characters face real challenges and learn from them. The show avoids making anyone a simple villain or hero.
The series has become so popular that it consistently ranks among the most-watched shows on Apple TV+. Fans and critics alike praise its blend of humor and humanity.
All three seasons are available to stream, making it perfect for a weekend binge. The complete story arc gives viewers a satisfying experience from start to finish.
Ted Lasso has changed how people think about sports shows. It proves that stories about teams can focus on emotions and relationships as much as competition.
For new Apple TV+ subscribers, Ted Lasso is often the first show recommended. Its universal themes and feel-good attitude make it appealing to a wide audience.
The show’s impact extends beyond entertainment. Many fans report adopting Ted’s positive outlook in their own lives, showing the power of good storytelling.
3. Dope Thief
“Dope Thief” is one of Apple TV+’s newest crime dramas that has quickly gained attention. The show stars Brian Tyree Henry and Wagner Moura as two longtime friends in Philadelphia who pose as DEA agents to rob small-time drug dealers.
The premise is both simple and gripping. These low-level criminals have found a clever way to steal drugs while pretending to be law enforcement. This setup creates both tense and funny moments throughout the series.
Critics have praised the show, with some comparing its humor to “Brooklyn Nine-Nine meets Breaking Bad.” The mix of comedy and crime makes for a unique viewing experience that stands out in Apple’s lineup.
Brian Tyree Henry’s performance has been singled out as particularly strong. His character’s personal struggles add depth to what could have been just another crime show.
The show is produced by Ridley Scott, adding some serious Hollywood clout to the production. In fact, some reviewers have placed it among the “top 10 shows of the year” so far.
The pacing is fast and keeps viewers engaged. Each episode builds on the last, creating a story that’s hard to stop watching once you start.
For fans of crime dramas with a twist, this show hits all the right notes. It combines tense moments with enough humor to keep things from getting too dark.
Apple TV+ continues its streak of quality over quantity with this addition to its catalog. The seven-day free trial gives new subscribers a chance to check out “Dope Thief” and other shows before committing to the $9.99 monthly fee.
The show’s setting in Philadelphia adds character and grit to the story. The city almost becomes a character itself, providing the perfect backdrop for this tale of small-time crooks trying to make it big.
4. Mythic Quest
Mythic Quest is one of the best Apple TV Plus shows you’re not watching. The comedy series follows the team behind a popular multiplayer video game.
Despite its fantasy-sounding title, the show focuses on the wild world of video game development. It shows the funny and often chaotic side of creating games that millions play.
The show stars Rob McElhenney as Ian Grimm, the creative director with a huge ego. Charlotte Nicdao plays Poppy Li, the lead engineer who often clashes with Ian. Their work relationship creates many of the show’s funniest moments.
Mythic Quest blends workplace comedy with sharp commentary on the gaming industry. The writers clearly understand gaming culture and its unique challenges.
One standout episode was their special COVID episode, which earned praise for its creative approach. The episode showed how the team worked from home during lockdown.
The show balances humor with surprisingly touching moments. Some episodes break from the main story to explore deeper themes about creativity and connection.
According to Apple TV+, Mythic Quest is about a team building worlds, molding heroes, and creating legends. This mix of big dreams and office politics makes for great TV.
Fans of workplace comedies like The Office or Parks and Recreation will find a lot to enjoy. The show has its own unique voice while still feeling familiar.
The series has grown in popularity and now ranks among the most popular shows on Apple TV+. It sits alongside hits like Severance and Ted Lasso on the platform.
Each season brings new gaming industry challenges for the team to face. From expansion packs to corporate takeovers, the stakes keep changing.
The supporting cast adds depth to the workplace setting. F. Murray Abraham as the storyteller C.W. Longbottom and Danny Pudi as the money-focused Brad Bakshi stand out in their roles.
5. Silo
Silo stands out as one of Apple TV+’s best dystopian series. This sci-fi drama takes viewers into a dark future where the last people on Earth live in an underground silo.
The show stars Rebecca Ferguson, Tim Robbins, and Common in a story about survival and hidden truths. Fans of good sci-fi will find plenty to enjoy in this gripping series.
The plot follows residents of a mile-deep home where strict rules keep society in check. Questions about the outside world are dangerous, and those who ask too much face deadly consequences.
What makes Silo special is how it builds tension through its mystery. Why are people living underground? What happened to Earth? These questions pull viewers deeper into each episode.
The show has gained a strong following since its release. Many viewers rank it alongside other popular Apple TV+ offerings like Severance and For All Mankind.
Production values shine throughout the series. The underground world feels real, with detailed sets that help tell the story of this confined society.
Rebecca Ferguson delivers a standout performance as Juliette, an engineer searching for answers about her lover’s death. Her quest for truth drives much of the show’s tension.
The writing balances character development with world-building. Each episode reveals more about the silo and its strange customs without giving away too much too soon.
For those who enjoy shows like Fallout, Silo offers similar themes of isolation and survival. The difference comes in its tight focus on the mystery of why humanity lives this way.
The series continues to rank among Apple TV+’s most popular shows, proving its appeal to both sci-fi fans and general audiences. New viewers can stream the series on Apple TV+ now.
With its mix of mystery, strong acting, and thought-provoking themes, Silo earns its place among the top shows on Apple’s streaming service. The series proves that good science fiction can ask big questions while telling a compelling human story.
6. Slow Horses
Slow Horses stands out as one of Apple TV+’s most exceptional shows. This spy thriller follows a team of MI5 agents who have been banished to Slough House after making career-ending mistakes.
The show stars Gary Oldman as Jackson Lamb, the grumpy and uncouth leader of these outcasts. His brilliant performance anchors the series with a perfect blend of dark humor and gritty realism.
What makes Slow Horses special is how it mixes workplace comedy with serious spy action. The characters feel like real people with flaws and strengths, not just spy movie stereotypes.
The cast includes Jack Lowden and Kristin Scott Thomas, who bring depth to their roles. Each actor makes their character feel lived-in and authentic, adding to the show’s appeal.
Many viewers consider it among Apple’s best offerings, though it sometimes flies under the radar. The show has earned praise for its consistent quality across all seasons.
Critics love it too. Slow Horses has earned ratings above 90% on Rotten Tomatoes, placing it among the streaming service’s top-rated content.
The first season premiered on April 1, 2022, and was quickly followed by a second season in December of the same year. The second season adapted Mick Herron’s novel “Dead Lions” for the screen.
Slow Horses strikes a perfect balance between old-school spy thriller elements and modern prestige TV production values. This mix creates something that feels both fresh and familiar.
The writing deserves special mention. Sharp dialogue and tight plotting keep viewers guessing without resorting to confusing twists just for shock value.
If you enjoy spy stories that feel grounded and character-driven rather than filled with impossible gadgets and stunts, this show will hit the mark. It respects viewers’ intelligence while remaining thoroughly entertaining.
7. Foundation
“Foundation” is one of the most ambitious sci-fi shows on Apple TV+. It’s based on Isaac Asimov’s award-winning novels and follows a group of exiles trying to save humanity.
The show tells the story of mathematician Hari Seldon, who predicts the fall of a galactic empire. His followers work to save mankind’s knowledge and rebuild civilization amid the collapse.
Apple TV+ has turned the almost unfilmable source material into a TV series that many fans enjoy. The adaptation takes liberties with Asimov’s work but keeps its big ideas.
The show is visually stunning and thought-provoking. Its impressive special effects and set designs create a believable future world spanning multiple planets.
“Foundation” features a strong cast who bring depth to their roles. The acting helps viewers connect with the complex story that spans centuries.
The plot follows the band of exiles on their journey to preserve human knowledge. Each episode builds on the rich world-building while adding new twists to keep viewers engaged.
One of the show’s strengths is how it handles big concepts like fate, free will, and the rise and fall of civilizations. These themes make viewers think long after the credits roll.
The show faces the challenge of adapting Asimov’s complex work. The books contain abstract ideas that aren’t easy to show on screen.
Despite these hurdles, “Foundation” creates an interesting viewing experience. It mixes politics, science, and human drama in an epic story spanning generations.
For sci-fi fans who enjoy big ideas and stunning visuals, “Foundation” is worth watching. It stands out as one of Apple TV+’s most ambitious projects to date.
8. For All Mankind
For All Mankind takes viewers on an exciting journey through an alternate history where the space race never ended. The show stars Joel Kinnaman, Toby Kebbell, and Krys Marshall in a gripping “what if” scenario about space exploration.
The series begins with a simple but powerful premise: What if the Soviet Union had reached the moon first? This change sets off a chain of events that creates a completely different world from the one we know.
Each season jumps forward in time, showing how this alternate timeline develops. The show mixes real historical figures with fictional characters to tell its story.
The visual effects stand out as some of the best on TV. The space scenes look real and help viewers feel like they’re right there with the astronauts.
For All Mankind was one of the first shows to appear when Apple TV+ launched. It has grown into one of the platform’s most loved series over time.
The show does more than just show cool space scenes. It explores deep themes like national pride, personal sacrifice, and what drives humans to explore.
The characters grow and change over the seasons in believable ways. Viewers become attached to the astronauts, engineers, and their families as they face both personal and global challenges.
Many viewers consider For All Mankind to be among Apple’s best shows. It sits alongside other hit series like Foundation, Silo, and Severance in the platform’s top sci-fi offerings.
What makes this show special is how it blends exciting space action with human drama. The stakes feel real, both for the characters and for their version of Earth.
For sci-fi fans, this show offers a perfect mix of realistic space travel and compelling storytelling. The attention to technical details pleases space enthusiasts while still being accessible to casual viewers.
9. Shining Girls
Shining Girls is a gripping thriller series on Apple TV+ starring Elisabeth Moss as Kirby Mazrachi, a woman who survives a brutal attack.
The show follows Kirby as she discovers that a recent murder connects to her own assault. She teams up with veteran reporter Dan Velazquez, played by Wagner Moura, to make sense of what’s happening around her.
What makes this series stand out is its mind-bending approach to reality. Kirby experiences shifts in her present life that leave her confused about what’s real and what isn’t.
Jamie Bell joins the cast as a mysterious character who plays a key role in the story. The show keeps viewers guessing with its unusual structure and shifting timelines.
Elisabeth Moss doesn’t just star in the series – she also directed two episodes and served as an executive producer. Her performance brings depth to a complex character navigating an unstable reality.
The series premiered on April 29, 2022 and quickly gained attention for its unique storytelling approach. It’s based on Lauren Beukes’ novel of the same name.
Critics have praised the show as a genre-bending crime thriller that mixes elements of mystery, sci-fi, and psychological drama. The blend creates a viewing experience that keeps audiences on their toes.
Though some viewers found the show confusing at first, many agree that the payoff is worth it. The series rewards careful watching with its intricate plot and surprising twists.
The production quality matches Apple TV+’s high standards with excellent cinematography and a tense atmosphere that fits the story perfectly. The setting adds to the show’s eerie tone.
For fans of psychological thrillers that challenge traditional storytelling, Shining Girls offers a fresh take on the genre. Its mix of crime drama and reality-bending elements makes it one of Apple TV+’s most unique offerings.
10. Black Bird
Black Bird is a gripping drama series on Apple TV+. This limited series was nominated for four Emmy Awards in 2023 and features a stellar cast including Taron Egerton, Ray Liotta, and Greg Kinnear.
The show tells the story of Jimmy Keene, a high school football hero and son of a decorated policeman. After being sentenced to 10 years in a minimum security prison, Jimmy makes a life-changing deal with the FBI.
The deal requires Jimmy to befriend a suspected serial killer in prison. His task is to get a confession and find out where the bodies are buried before the killer’s appeal goes through.
What makes Black Bird stand out is its top-notch acting and gripping storyline based on true events. The show creates tension that keeps viewers on edge throughout each episode.
Some viewers consider it one of the best shows of the year on Apple TV+. It maintains a remarkable 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, showing its strong reception from critics and audiences alike.
The series joins other highly rated Apple TV+ offerings that viewers recommend. Many fans on Reddit have ranked it alongside shows like Severance, Slow Horses, and Silo as must-watch content on the platform.
Black Bird stands out for its strong character development and the way it handles its dark subject matter. The psychological cat-and-mouse game between the main characters creates a viewing experience that’s both unsettling and compelling.
The limited series format works perfectly for this story, allowing enough time to build the narrative without stretching it too thin. Each episode moves the story forward with purpose.
For those who enjoy true crime dramas with exceptional acting performances, Black Bird represents some of the best content Apple TV+ has to offer.
Understanding Apple TV Plus
Apple TV Plus stands out in the streaming landscape with its focus on original content and quality programming. The service has grown its library since launching in November 2019, building a reputation for award-winning shows.
Platform Overview
Apple TV Plus costs $9.99 per month after a 7-day free trial. New Apple device buyers receive three months free access to the service.
The platform works on various devices including Apple products (iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV), smart TVs, gaming consoles, and streaming devices like Roku and Amazon Fire TV. Users can enjoy content in 4K HDR with Dolby Atmos sound when available.
Unlike Netflix or Hulu, Apple TV Plus doesn’t include a back catalog of licensed shows. It focuses exclusively on original content created specifically for the platform.
The service allows for family sharing with up to six family members. It also offers offline viewing by downloading shows and movies.
Content Licensing and Creation
Apple takes a quality-over-quantity approach to its programming. The company invests heavily in top talent both in front of and behind the camera.
Big names like Steven Spielberg, Oprah Winfrey, and Martin Scorsese have created content for the platform. This strategy has led to critical success with shows like Severance, Dope Thief, and Silo earning praise.
Apple produces content across many genres including drama series, comedy shows, sci-fi programs, documentaries, and children’s programming.
The company continues to expand its sci-fi offerings, which have become particularly popular with viewers. Many Apple originals have won Emmy, Oscar, and other prestigious awards.
Unlike traditional networks, Apple releases most series weekly rather than all at once, encouraging longer viewer engagement.
Exploring Genres on Apple TV Plus
Apple TV Plus offers a wide range of shows across different genres. The streaming service has built an impressive library that caters to various tastes and preferences.
Drama and Thrillers
Apple TV+ has become known for its high-quality drama and thriller shows. “Severance” stands out as a mind-bending workplace thriller that blends sci-fi elements with existential questions about work-life balance.
“The Morning Show” features stellar performances from Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon, exploring the cutthroat world of morning television. The series tackles timely issues like workplace harassment and media ethics.
For spy thriller fans, “Slow Horses” offers a gritty, realistic look at MI5 outcasts working in a departmental dumping ground. Gary Oldman’s performance as the cynical leader Jackson Lamb has earned widespread praise.
“Foundation,” based on Isaac Asimov’s classic sci-fi novels, presents an epic story spanning centuries about the fall and rebirth of a galactic civilization. Its stunning visuals and complex storytelling make it a must-watch for sci-fi enthusiasts.
Comedy and Family Shows
“Ted Lasso” remains Apple TV+’s breakout comedy hit, featuring Jason Sudeikis as an American football coach hired to manage a British soccer team. The show’s heartwarming humor and positive messages have won multiple Emmy Awards.
“Mythic Quest” offers a hilarious look inside a video game development studio, bringing smart workplace comedy to the gaming world. It balances humor with surprising emotional depth.
For family viewing, “Snoopy in Space” brings the beloved Peanuts characters into educational adventures about space exploration. The short episodes make it perfect for young viewers.
“Schmigadoon!” provides a unique musical comedy experience, following a couple who find themselves trapped in a town where everyone acts like they’re in a 1940s musical. The show features catchy songs and clever parodies of classic musicals.
Apple TV+ organizes these shows by genre, making it easy to browse by category like drama, comedy, or family content.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apple TV+ offers many top-rated shows across different genres. From workplace thrillers to comedy series, there’s something for everyone on this streaming platform.
What are the critically acclaimed Apple TV+ original series?
“Severance” stands out as one of the most critically acclaimed shows on Apple TV+. This mind-bending thriller about workers who separate their work and personal memories has earned widespread praise from critics.
“Ted Lasso,” the heartwarming comedy about an American football coach leading a British soccer team, has become a cultural phenomenon. Its positive message and character development have made it a fan favorite.
“Silo” has also received strong critical acclaim for its dystopian storytelling. The series explores life in an underground community with mysterious origins.
Which Apple TV+ shows have the highest ratings on IMDb?
“Severance” holds some of the highest ratings among Apple TV+ shows on IMDb. Viewers praise its unique concept and exceptional performances.
“Ted Lasso” continues to maintain impressive ratings due to its uplifting story and memorable characters. Its mix of humor and heart connects with audiences.
“Mythic Quest,” a comedy about a video game development studio, has earned strong ratings for its smart writing and ensemble cast.
What new Apple TV+ series are trending currently?
“Dope Thief” is currently one of the hottest new shows on the platform. This neo-noir series has quickly gained popularity and is listed among the best offerings on Apple TV+ in March 2025.
New seasons of established hits like “Mythic Quest” continue to trend as they release new episodes. The show’s blend of workplace comedy and gaming culture keeps viewers coming back.
Apple TV+ regularly introduces new limited series that gain traction with viewers looking for fresh content.
Can you recommend top family-friendly shows available on Apple TV+?
“Ted Lasso” works well for family viewing with older children. While it contains some adult language, its positive messages about teamwork and kindness make it worthwhile.
“Mythic Quest” offers a glimpse into video game development with humor that appeals to teens and adults alike. The workplace setting provides relatable situations.
“Schmigadoon!” brings musical comedy to Apple TV+ with its parody of classic musicals. This light-hearted series works well for family movie nights.
What are the award-winning shows to watch on Apple TV+?
“Ted Lasso” has dominated awards seasons, winning multiple Emmy Awards including Outstanding Comedy Series. The performances by Jason Sudeikis and the supporting cast have received particular recognition.
“Severance” has earned awards for its innovative storytelling and direction. The show’s unique premise has helped it stand out at various awards ceremonies.
“Mythic Quest” has received nominations for its writing and performances. The show balances comedy with thoughtful exploration of the gaming industry.
How do popular Apple TV+ series compare to top shows on other streaming platforms?
Apple TV+ focuses on quality over quantity. Shows like “Severance” match the production value of premium cable networks. The psychological thriller stands toe-to-toe with top-tier dramas on any platform.
“Ted Lasso” has become a cultural phenomenon similar to major hits on other services. Its positive message has helped it break through in a crowded streaming landscape.
Science fiction fans note that “Silo” offers epic world-building comparable to big-budget sci-fi series on competing platforms. The show’s production design and storytelling have earned it a place among the best in its genre.
