Apple TV+ launched in November 2019 with a modest slate of originals. Fast forward to 2025, and it’s evolved into a formidable player in the streaming wars, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with giants like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and HBO Max. Despite offering a smaller library compared to its competitors, Apple TV+ has carved out a niche by embracing a “quality over quantity” philosophy.
The result? A catalog packed with Emmy-winning series, Golden Globe nominees, and some of the most talked-about prestige television of recent years. Whether you’re craving an uplifting comedy, a pulse-pounding thriller, or a sprawling sci-fi epic, Apple TV+ delivers content that consistently punches above its weight.
With competitive pricing (starting at $9.99/month as of 2025) and seamless bundling options through Apple One, there’s never been a better time to explore the platform’s growing lineup of must-watch TV shows. Below is a curated list of standout Apple TV+ series you should stream right now—whether you’re new to the platform or looking for your next binge.
🎬 10 Must-Watch Apple TV+ Series in 2025
1. Severance
- Genre: Sci-Fi / Psychological Thriller
- Why Watch: A masterclass in world-building and suspense, Severance follows employees at Lumon Industries who undergo a controversial “severance” procedure that surgically divides their work and personal identities. Created by Dan Erickson and directed by Ben Stiller, the series has been lauded for its cerebral storytelling and unsettling visuals.
- Awards & Accolades: Emmy-winning for Outstanding Main Title Design and multiple nominations, including Best Drama Series.
- Vibes: Black Mirror meets Office Space, with a 1984-style dystopian twist.
- Seasons: 1 (Season 2 expected late 2025)
2. Ted Lasso
- Genre: Comedy / Feel-Good Drama
- Why Watch: Winner of multiple Primetime Emmy Awards, Ted Lasso is more than just a sports comedy. It’s a heartwarming exploration of optimism, leadership, and human connection. Jason Sudeikis delivers a career-defining performance as an American football coach who takes on a struggling British soccer team.
- Cultural Impact: Popularized “Believe” posters and sparked real-life mental health discussions.
- Vibes: Wholesome, heartfelt, and funny—think Parks and Recreation meets Friday Night Lights.
- Seasons: 3 (Rumors of spinoffs are swirling)
3. For All Mankind
- Genre: Sci-Fi / Alternate History Drama
- Why Watch: What if the space race never ended? This alternate history series from Battlestar Galactica’s Ronald D. Moore imagines a world where the Soviet Union beats the U.S. to the moon, setting off an accelerated space exploration era. The series spans decades, offering deep character development and spectacular space sequences.
- Vibes: The Right Stuff meets Mad Men, with heavy doses of space politics.
- Seasons: 4 (Season 5 in pre-production)
4. The Morning Show
- Genre: Drama
- Why Watch: Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, and Steve Carell headline this gripping look behind the scenes of a major morning news program rocked by scandal. Addressing topics like #MeToo, media ethics, and gender politics, it’s an intense, star-studded drama that continues to evolve with every season.
- Awards: Emmy wins for Outstanding Lead Actress (Aniston) and multiple Golden Globe nominations.
- Vibes: The Newsroom meets Big Little Lies.
- Seasons: 3 (Season 4 expected late 2025)
5. Silo
- Genre: Dystopian Sci-Fi / Thriller
- Why Watch: Based on Hugh Howey’s bestselling Wool novels, Silo paints a claustrophobic world where humanity clings to survival in an underground silo. As inhabitants uncover dark secrets about their existence, the show becomes an engrossing mystery wrapped in a dystopian thriller.
- Notable Cast: Rebecca Ferguson (Dune), Tim Robbins.
- Vibes: Snowpiercer meets The Hunger Games.
- Seasons: 1 (Season 2 filming completed)
6. Shrinking
- Genre: Comedy / Drama
- Why Watch: Co-created by Jason Segel and Ted Lasso’s Bill Lawrence, this series features Segel as a grieving therapist who breaks professional norms by telling his clients exactly what he thinks. Harrison Ford shines as his grumpy mentor in one of his best recent performances.
- Vibes: Ted Lasso’s humor mixed with Good Will Hunting‘s heart.
- Seasons: 1 (Renewed for Season 2)
7. Foundation
- Genre: Epic Sci-Fi / Space Opera
- Why Watch: Loosely adapted from Isaac Asimov’s genre-defining series, Foundation spans galaxies and millennia. Its grand narrative of mathematics, politics, and destiny features stunning visuals and complex world-building.
- Critical Praise: Called “the most ambitious sci-fi show since Game of Thrones in space.”
- Seasons: 2 (Season 3 confirmed)
8. Pachinko
- Genre: Historical Drama
- Why Watch: Based on Min Jin Lee’s acclaimed novel, this saga spans four generations of a Korean family living in Japan. It’s a powerful story of love, loss, and identity, with breathtaking cinematography and heartfelt performances (Youn Yuh-jung, an Academy Award winner, stars).
- Awards: BAFTA nomination, Peabody Award winner.
- Vibes: The Crown meets Memoirs of a Geisha.
- Seasons: 1 (Season 2 anticipated late 2025)
9. Hijack
- Genre: Thriller / Action
- Why Watch: This high-stakes thriller starring Idris Elba unfolds in real-time aboard a hijacked plane. Each episode ratchets up the tension as Elba’s character uses negotiation skills to defuse the deadly situation.
- Vibes: 24 meets Non-Stop (the Liam Neeson movie).
- Seasons: 1 (Renewed for Season 2 with a new location)
10. Slow Horses
- Genre: Spy Thriller / Dark Comedy
- Why Watch: Gary Oldman stars as Jackson Lamb, the slovenly but brilliant leader of Slough House—a dumping ground for MI5 agents who’ve messed up. Combining dry wit with sharp espionage, this show is the perfect mix of smart and suspenseful.
- Vibes: Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy meets The Office (UK version).
- Seasons: 3 (Seasons 4 and 5 greenlit)
⚡ Honorable Mentions
- Black Bird – True crime thriller starring Taron Egerton and the late Ray Liotta, based on a harrowing true story.
- Lessons in Chemistry – Brie Larson shines in this 1950s feminist drama adapted from the bestselling novel.
- City on Fire – An adaptation of Garth Risk Hallberg’s novel. Mystery, murder, and punk rock in 2003 New York.
- Servant – M. Night Shyamalan’s eerie psychological thriller entering its final chapter.
- Echo 3 – A military action series from The Hurt Locker writer Mark Boal.
🎟️ Why Apple TV+ Is Worth It in 2025
Beyond great shows, Apple TV+ has a growing library of original films like CODA (the first streaming movie to win Best Picture at the Oscars) and Killers of the Flower Moon starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro. The service has become synonymous with prestige and awards-season buzz.
Pro Tip: Subscriptions are bundled into Apple One, and if you’ve recently purchased an Apple device, you might qualify for a 3-month free trial.
👉 Bottom Line: Whether you’re a fan of sharp comedies, mind-bending sci-fi, or prestige dramas, Apple TV+ has something for you in 2025—and it’s only getting better.
Key Takeaways
- Apple TV+ features over 40 original series spanning multiple genres from comedy to sci-fi, with new content regularly added in 2025.
- The streaming service prioritizes quality production value, attracting award-winning creative talent and earning industry recognition.
- Viewers can access Apple TV+ on multiple devices through various subscription options, including bundles with other Apple services.
Understanding Apple TV+
Apple TV+ has established itself as a significant player in the streaming landscape with its focus on high-quality original content. The platform offers a diverse collection of shows and movies across multiple genres, distinguishing itself through premium productions and award-winning titles.
History and Development
Apple TV+ launched in November 2019 as part of Apple’s expansion into services beyond hardware. The streaming service represented a major shift in Apple’s business strategy, focusing on content creation rather than just distribution.
Initially, the platform started with a small library of originals but quickly invested billions in content development. Apple leveraged its brand power and financial resources to attract top-tier talent including Steven Spielberg, Oprah Winfrey, and Jennifer Aniston.
The service adopted a quality-over-quantity approach, focusing on fewer but higher-budget productions. This strategy has paid off with numerous Emmy and Oscar nominations and wins since its inception. Apple typically offers the service at $4.99 monthly, with free trials through device purchases.
Content and Genres
Apple TV+ features content across diverse genres, with particularly strong offerings in drama, comedy, and thriller categories. Hit shows like “Ted Lasso,” “Severance,” and “The Morning Show” have become cultural touchstones and critical darlings.
The platform has expanded into various genres including science fiction with “For All Mankind,” spy thrillers with “Slow Horses,” and historical dramas like “Masters of the Air.” Apple has also invested in documentaries and limited series, creating a well-rounded content library.
Many Apple TV+ shows boast high production values and star-studded casts. “Servant,” executive produced by M. Night Shyamalan, exemplifies the platform’s commitment to cinematically ambitious storytelling. Meanwhile, “Pachinko” and “Disclaimer” demonstrate Apple’s willingness to tackle complex narratives and diverse storylines.
The service continues to build its catalog with new originals rather than licensing existing content, maintaining its unique position in the streaming market.
Top Apple TV+ Original Series
Apple TV+ has established itself as a premium streaming platform with critically acclaimed shows across multiple genres. Since its launch in 2019, the service has built an impressive catalog featuring award-winning talent both in front of and behind the camera.
Drama
“The Morning Show” stands as one of Apple TV+’s flagship dramas, starring Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon. The series explores the competitive world of morning television and the power dynamics that shape it. Each season tackles relevant social issues while maintaining compelling character development.
“For All Mankind” presents an alternative history where the global space race never ended. The series has garnered praise for its meticulous attention to detail and ambitious storytelling spanning decades of space exploration.
“Severance” emerged as a breakout hit with its unique premise about employees who surgically separate their work memories from their personal lives. Director Ben Stiller crafts a visually distinctive world that balances corporate satire with existential dread.
“Foundation,” based on Isaac Asimov’s classic sci-fi novels, offers breathtaking visuals and complex storylines about the fall and rebuilding of a galactic civilization. The ambitious production features stunning planetary landscapes and thoughtful exploration of mathematical predictions.
Comedy
“Ted Lasso” quickly became Apple TV+’s signature comedy hit, winning multiple Emmy Awards. Jason Sudeikis plays an American football coach who moves to England to coach a soccer team, bringing unexpected optimism and wisdom to the struggling club.
“Mythic Quest” takes viewers inside a video game development studio, combining workplace comedy with sharp observations about creative industries. The show balances humor with surprising emotional depth.
“Schmigadoon!” offers a delightful musical comedy parody starring Keegan-Michael Key and Cecily Strong as a couple who find themselves trapped in a town that operates like a 1940s musical. The series features original songs and performances from Broadway veterans.
“Dickinson” reimagines the life of poet Emily Dickinson with modern sensibilities and music. The series blends historical elements with contemporary themes, creating a fresh take on the iconic writer’s life.
Thriller
“Slow Horses” follows a group of MI5 agents who have been exiled to Slough House after career-ending mistakes. Gary Oldman delivers a standout performance as the cynical leader of these intelligence service misfits.
“Bad Sisters” combines dark comedy with murder mystery, following five close-knit sisters dealing with the suspicious death of one sister’s abusive husband. The blend of humor and suspense makes it a unique entry in Apple’s lineup.
“Defending Jacob” stars Chris Evans as an assistant district attorney whose son becomes a murder suspect. The limited series explores the impact of a criminal investigation on a family and community.
“Servant” from M. Night Shyamalan presents a psychological thriller about a couple who replace their deceased infant with a lifelike doll. The claustrophobic setting and unsettling atmosphere create a consistently tense viewing experience.
Award-Winning Content
Apple TV+ has established itself as a powerhouse of prestigious programming, earning numerous accolades across the entertainment industry. The streaming service‘s commitment to quality content has resulted in critical acclaim and significant recognition at major award ceremonies.
Critically Acclaimed Series
“Ted Lasso” stands as Apple TV+’s crown jewel, winning multiple Emmy Awards including Outstanding Comedy Series. The heartwarming sports comedy about an American football coach leading a British soccer team captured critics’ hearts with its optimistic tone and character development.
“The Morning Show” represents another critical darling, tackling timely issues in the broadcast news industry. The series earned praise for its unflinching look at workplace dynamics and power structures.
“Severance” has become one of the platform’s most celebrated shows, with its unique premise about employees who surgically separate their work and personal memories. Critics have lauded its distinctive visual style and thought-provoking storytelling.
“Foundation,” based on Isaac Asimov’s classic novels, has garnered recognition for its ambitious scope and stunning visual effects. The sci-fi epic chronicles a band of exiles on their journey to rebuild civilization.
Performance Acknowledgments
Jason Sudeikis earned multiple Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe for his portrayal of the eternally optimistic Ted Lasso. His performance balances humor with surprising emotional depth, creating a character that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon received significant recognition for their work on “The Morning Show,” with Aniston winning a SAG Award for her role as veteran broadcaster Alex Levy. Billy Crudup also earned an Emmy for his supporting performance in the series.
Elisabeth Moss delivered an award-worthy performance in “Shining Girls,” while Gary Oldman’s work in “Slow Horses” has been praised as some of the best of his distinguished career.
The ensemble cast of “CODA” made history when the film won Best Picture at the Academy Awards, marking the first streaming service film to win the top Oscar.
Genre-Specific Recommendations
Apple TV+ offers an impressive array of series spanning multiple genres. The platform excels in creating unique content with high production values and compelling storytelling across mystery, science fiction, and historical dramas.
For Mystery and Suspense
Home Before Dark stands out as a captivating mystery drama inspired by the real-life story of young journalist Hilde Lysiak. The series follows a young girl who uncovers a cold case that the residents of her small town tried to bury. Its child protagonist offers a fresh perspective on the mystery genre.
Truth Be Told features Octavia Spencer as a true crime podcaster who reopens a murder case she helped solve years ago. The show examines how pursuit of truth affects the lives it touches. Its exploration of media ethics adds depth to the traditional mystery format.
Shining Girls presents Elisabeth Moss as a newspaper archivist tracking down a time-traveling serial killer. The show’s non-linear narrative creates a disorienting experience that mirrors the protagonist’s fractured reality.
Severance blends mystery with workplace drama in a uniquely disturbing way. Employees undergo a procedure separating work memories from personal ones, creating a perfect mystery box where characters investigate their own lives.
For Sci-Fi and Fantasy Lovers
Foundation adapts Isaac Asimov’s classic sci-fi novels into a visually stunning series. The show chronicles the thousand-year saga of a band of exiles working to preserve civilization amid the fall of a galactic empire. Its complex worldbuilding and time-spanning narrative are ambitious.
For All Mankind presents an alternate history where the space race never ended. Starting with “what if the USSR landed on the moon first?”, the series explores how history might have unfolded differently. Each season jumps forward in time, showing the evolution of space technology.
See takes place in a future where humanity has lost the ability to see. Jason Momoa leads as a tribal warrior in a world where vision is considered mythical. The series creates a fully realized post-apocalyptic society with unique customs and fighting styles.
Silo features Rebecca Ferguson in an underground community where inhabitants live according to regulations they don’t understand. The mystery of why they live in the silo and what exists outside drives this compelling dystopian thriller.
For History Enthusiasts
Masters of the Air comes from the producers of “Band of Brothers” and follows the true story of American bomber pilots during World War II. The series portrays the psychological and physical toll of daylight bombing raids over Nazi Germany with historical accuracy and emotional impact.
Pachinko adapts Min Jin Lee’s novel spanning four generations of a Korean family across Japan and America. The series moves between timelines while exploring themes of immigration, identity, and family with beautiful cinematography.
The Essex Serpent sets Claire Danes and Tom Hiddleston in Victorian England investigating rumors of a mythical serpent. The show blends historical drama with elements of folk horror while examining the tension between science and superstition.
Slow Horses offers a different take on spy thrillers by focusing on disgraced MI5 agents. Led by Gary Oldman’s cantankerous Jackson Lamb, these intelligence service rejects find themselves handling surprisingly important cases despite their outcast status.
Upcoming and New Releases
Apple TV+ continues to expand its catalog with compelling new content in 2025. Subscribers can look forward to highly anticipated series premieres and recently launched shows that are generating significant buzz.
Anticipated Series
A new series from Steve Thompson, known for his work on landmark shows like Sherlock, Doctor Who, and Upstairs Downstairs, is expected to premiere on Apple TV+ soon. Thompson’s impressive writing credentials suggest this will be a high-quality addition to the platform.
“Prime” appears to be coming to the service, though details remain limited about this mysterious project. Apple TV+ has also announced a March 26 premiere for an unnamed new series, which viewers can sample with a 7-day free trial before the standard $9.99 monthly subscription kicks in.
The second season of Severance, one of Apple’s most critically acclaimed shows, ranks high on many viewers’ watchlists. Fans have been eagerly awaiting its return after the first season’s mind-bending conclusion.
New seasons of Pachinko and Slow Horses are also in development, continuing these popular series’ strong storytelling traditions.
Recently Premiered
Masters of the Air, a companion to the acclaimed Band of Brothers and The Pacific, recently debuted to positive reviews. This WWII drama focuses on American bomber crews fighting against Nazi Germany.
Lessons in Chemistry starring Brie Larson has captured audiences with its adaptation of the bestselling novel. The series follows a female scientist in the 1950s who becomes an unlikely cooking show host.
Shrinking with Jason Segel and Harrison Ford has been gaining viewership with its blend of comedy and drama. The show centers on a grieving therapist who starts breaking the rules by telling clients exactly what he thinks.
Apple’s commitment to quality over quantity remains evident in these new releases, with the platform focusing on prestige projects rather than flooding the service with content.
How to Enhance Your Viewing Experience
Apple TV+ offers several ways to improve how you watch your favorite shows and movies. These enhancements can transform a standard viewing session into something more personalized and convenient.
Utilizing Apple TV+ Features
Apple TV+ allows users to download content for offline viewing on iPhones, iPads, and Macs. This feature is perfect for travelers or anyone with unreliable internet connections.
The service offers high-quality 4K HDR content for compatible devices. Viewers should check their TV settings to ensure they’re getting the best possible picture quality.
Users can create personalized profiles for each family member. This keeps recommendations relevant and maintains separate watchlists for everyone.
The “Up Next” queue automatically updates with new episodes of shows you’re watching. You can manually add or remove content from this list to customize your viewing priorities.
Family Sharing lets up to six family members share one subscription without sharing accounts. Each person gets their own recommendations and watch history.
Browsing and Navigating
The Apple TV+ interface is designed for simplicity but contains hidden features. Users can long-press on content tiles to see more options including adding to watchlists or sharing with friends.
Search functionality supports voice commands through Siri. Try asking for “new comedy shows” or “Oscar-winning movies” to discover content quickly.
The “Browse by Category” option helps filter content by genre, making it easier to find what you’re in the mood for. Categories are regularly updated to reflect new additions.
- Double-tap the right edge of the remote to skip forward
- Double-tap the left edge to skip backward
- Swipe down during playback to see information about the cast and episodes
Apple TV+ integrates with the Apple TV app, which consolidates content from multiple streaming services. This creates a unified watchlist across different platforms.
Distinguished Creative Talent
Apple TV+ has attracted exceptional talent both behind and in front of the camera. The streaming service has established itself as a premier destination for creative professionals looking to tell compelling stories without traditional network constraints.
Directors and Producers
Apple TV+ has secured partnerships with some of the industry’s most visionary directors and producers. J.J. Abrams, the mind behind hits like “Lost” and “Star Trek,” signed a substantial production deal with the platform to develop original content.
Steven Spielberg joined forces with Apple for the revival of “Amazing Stories,” bringing his storytelling expertise to the streaming service. His involvement elevated the production quality and attracted more high-caliber talent.
Emmy-winning producer and director Jason Katims, known for “Friday Night Lights” and “Parenthood,” developed the heartwarming series “Dear Edward” exclusively for Apple TV+. His distinct storytelling style brought emotional depth to the platform’s offerings.
Alfonso Cuarón’s multi-year deal with Apple has already yielded the psychological thriller “Disclaimer,” starring Cate Blanchett. His Oscar-winning directorial approach brings cinematic quality to the small screen.
Actors and Performances
Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon lead “The Morning Show,” delivering powerful performances that earned them critical acclaim and award nominations. Their dual roles as executive producers and stars demonstrate the creative control Apple offers to talent.
Jason Sudeikis transformed his career with his role in “Ted Lasso,” winning multiple Emmy Awards for his portrayal of the optimistic football coach. His performance blends comedy and emotional depth in ways that resonate with global audiences.
Tom Hiddleston’s work in “The Essex Serpent” and Gary Oldman’s nuanced portrayal in “Slow Horses” showcase how Apple attracts established film actors to television projects. These performances have helped position Apple TV+ as a prestigious platform for talent.
Adam Scott’s work in “Severance” has been particularly noteworthy, with his dual portrayal of work and home personas earning widespread praise from critics. The show has become one of Apple TV+’s biggest hits, according to recent viewership data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apple TV+ offers a diverse range of original series spanning multiple genres. The platform has gained recognition for its high-quality productions, award-winning shows, and exclusive content that appeals to various viewer preferences.
What are the top-rated Apple TV+ original series currently available?
“Ted Lasso” remains one of Apple TV+’s highest-rated series, winning multiple Emmy Awards for its heartwarming comedy about an American football coach who moves to England to manage a soccer team.
“Severance” has received critical acclaim for its unique premise and stellar performances, exploring a world where employees undergo a procedure to separate their work and personal memories.
“For All Mankind” presents an alternative history where the global space race never ended, earning praise for its storytelling and production values.
“The Morning Show” starring Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon continues to be a flagship series for the platform, tackling relevant issues in the broadcast news industry.
Can you recommend some critically acclaimed shows to stream on Apple TV+?
“Slow Horses” has been praised for its gritty spy thriller elements and Gary Oldman’s performance as the leader of MI5 agents who have been exiled from the mainstream due to career-ending mistakes.
“Pachinko” offers a stunning multigenerational story based on Min Jin Lee’s novel, earning recognition for its beautiful cinematography and powerful storytelling across decades.
“Shrinking” starring Jason Segel and Harrison Ford has received positive reviews for its thoughtful approach to grief and mental health, balanced with humor.
“Black Bird” limited series featuring Taron Egerton and Ray Liotta delivers a tense prison drama based on true events, showcasing exceptional performances.
What are the latest series releases on Apple TV+ that are gaining popularity?
“Silo” has quickly gained traction with viewers, presenting a post-apocalyptic world where the last of humanity lives in a giant underground silo.
“Presumed Innocent” starring Jake Gyllenhaal offers a fresh take on the legal thriller genre based on Scott Turow’s novel.
“Constellation” brings science fiction fans a psychological thriller about an astronaut who returns to Earth after a disaster in space to find her reality has shifted.
“Masters of the Air” from the producers of “Band of Brothers” follows the true story of American bomber pilots during World War II and has attracted a significant audience.
Which Apple TV+ shows have received the highest viewership numbers to date?
“Ted Lasso” consistently ranks as one of Apple TV+’s most-watched series, with its popularity extending beyond initial expectations into a cultural phenomenon.
“The Morning Show” maintains strong viewership numbers, particularly among audiences interested in drama centered on timely social issues.
“Foundation,” based on Isaac Asimov’s classic science fiction series, has drawn large audiences with its epic scale and visual effects.
“Defending Jacob” starring Chris Evans became an early hit for the platform, with its limited series format attracting viewers interested in crime dramas.
What are some notable Apple TV+ exclusives that have garnered award nominations or wins?
“CODA” made history as the first film from a streaming service to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, putting Apple TV+ on the map for prestigious film awards.
“Ted Lasso” has dominated comedy categories at the Emmy Awards, winning Outstanding Comedy Series multiple times along with acting awards for its cast.
“Hijack” starring Idris Elba received multiple nominations for its real-time thriller approach and compelling performances.
“The Morning Show” has earned numerous Emmy and Golden Globe nominations and wins for its performances, particularly for Jennifer Aniston and Billy Crudup.
Are there any hidden gems on Apple TV+ that come highly recommended by viewers?
“Trying” offers a heartwarming British comedy about a couple navigating the adoption process, winning fans with its charm and humor.
“Servant” produced by M. Night Shyamalan delivers psychological horror in a confined setting, creating an unsettling atmosphere that horror fans appreciate.
“Mythic Quest” presents a workplace comedy set in a video game development studio, offering sharp writing and character development that appeals beyond gaming enthusiasts.
“Little America” tells anthology stories of immigrants in America, with each episode presenting a different compelling narrative based on real experiences.
