Apple TV+’s Shrinking is officially back in production, and Season 3 is shaping up to be its most emotionally charged and star-packed installment yet. Created by Bill Lawrence, Jason Segel, and Brett Goldstein, the show struck a chord with audiences thanks to its unique blend of raw emotional honesty, dark humor, and genuinely heartfelt character arcs. Now, with major casting announcements and production updates rolling in, it’s clear that Shrinking isn’t just continuing — it’s evolving.
Production Status & Release Window
Apple renewed Shrinking for a third season in October 2024, shortly before Season 2 wrapped. Production quietly kicked off in February 2025, with filming taking place around Pasadena and Altadena, California — familiar backdrops for the series’ Los Angeles setting.
While there’s no official release date yet, several insider sources point to a Fall 2025 premiere, likely in September or October, keeping with Apple TV+’s trend of fall launches for its flagship series.
Story Direction: The “Moving Forward” Chapter
Season 1 explored grief and reckless healing. Season 2 focused on acceptance and rebuilding. Season 3 is being described internally as the “moving forward” arc, closing out the original three-season plan envisioned by co-creator Bill Lawrence.
But that may not be the end.
Both Lawrence and Segel have teased the possibility of a longer run. According to recent interviews, if the writers find compelling character arcs beyond Season 3 — and if audience enthusiasm holds — more seasons could follow. Given the show’s growing awards buzz and Apple’s heavy investment in premium dramedy content, the odds are in its favor.
Returning Favorites & Major New Faces
All the key cast members are back for Season 3:
- Jason Segel as Jimmy, the grieving therapist with unorthodox methods
- Harrison Ford as Paul, Jimmy’s blunt mentor who’s battling Parkinson’s
- Jessica Williams as Gaby, the chaotic yet insightful colleague
- Christa Miller, Michael Urie, Ted McGinley, and Lukita Maxwell round out the ensemble
The biggest new name? Jeff Daniels, who joins as Jimmy’s estranged father — a major source of conflict that will dig deeper into Jimmy’s emotional trauma and family history. Daniels’ casting adds a gravitas and complexity that mirrors what Ford brought in Seasons 1 and 2.
Also making headlines is Michael J. Fox, in a special guest role tied to Paul’s ongoing struggle with Parkinson’s. This marks a rare return to scripted acting for Fox, and both Ford and Lawrence have spoken publicly about how meaningful his inclusion is for the tone and authenticity of Paul’s arc.
Adding even more pedigree, Candice Bergen is rumored to be appearing in a yet-to-be-disclosed recurring role.
Quick Recap Table
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Production Status | Filming started February 2025 |
| Expected Premiere | Fall 2025 (likely September–October) |
| Returning Cast | Segel, Ford, Williams, Miller, Urie, McGinley, Maxwell |
| Confirmed New Cast | Jeff Daniels, Michael J. Fox |
| Rumored Guest Stars | Candice Bergen |
| Season Theme | “Moving forward” — emotionally and narratively |
| Planned Ending? | Season 3 was the original endpoint, but more is possible |
Why This Season Matters
Shrinking has never been afraid to confront heavy topics — grief, mental illness, family estrangement — but it always offsets its emotional weight with humanizing humor and character warmth. With the addition of Daniels and Fox, and with Paul’s Parkinson’s diagnosis becoming more central to the story, Season 3 is expected to be the series’ most grounded and resonant yet.
Expect even more introspection, therapy sessions that push ethical limits, and hard-earned personal growth from each character. And of course — plenty of awkward humor and emotional breakthroughs.
If Apple is smart (and they usually are with their slow-burn hits), they’ll market Season 3 not just as a continuation but as the culmination of one of the most subtly powerful stories on TV today.
If you’re eager to know more about who Michael J. Fox is playing, how Jeff Daniels will shake things up, or whether Season 3 will leave the door open for more, stay tuned — more plot teases and trailers are expected this summer.
Best on Apple TV Right Now
Streaming services have transformed how we watch TV shows and movies, with Apple TV+ emerging as a notable player in the market. Though initially smaller than some competitors, Apple’s streaming platform has steadily built an impressive library of original content spanning various genres and formats.
The best shows on Apple TV+ right now include critically acclaimed series like Severance, Dope Thief, and Ted Lasso, each offering unique storytelling and high production values. As of March 2025, the platform continues to add new programming while building upon successful franchises that have helped establish its reputation for quality content. Viewers looking for fresh entertainment have plenty of options to explore across dramas, comedies, and thrillers.
1. Severance
Severance has become Apple TV+’s most watched series, surpassing the previous record holder Ted Lasso. This thrilling workplace drama blends science fiction with psychological horror in a truly unique way.
The show stars Adam Scott, Britt Lower, and Patricia Arquette in a story about employees who undergo a procedure that surgically divides their memories between work and personal life. This “severance” creates two versions of each person – one that only exists at work and another that knows nothing about their job.
Severance has earned critical acclaim, winning two Emmy awards and maintaining an impressive 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Many critics consider it not just the best show on Apple TV+, but possibly the best television series since HBO’s Chernobyl.
Season 2 arrived with enormous anticipation after the first season’s mind-bending cliffhanger. The new season quickly broke viewing records for the streaming service, though some viewers have noted a change in pacing compared to the tightly-wound first season.
Part of Severance’s success can be attributed to Apple’s excellent marketing campaign for the second season. The show’s mysterious premise and striking visual style make it perfect for building intrigue through trailers and promotional materials.
For those new to the series, all episodes are available to stream on Apple TV+. The show represents the pinnacle of the streaming service’s original programming and demonstrates Apple’s commitment to high-quality, thought-provoking content.
2. Ted Lasso
Ted Lasso has become one of the defining shows for Apple TV+, earning an impressive 11 Emmy Awards across its three-season run. The comedy series stars Jason Sudeikis as the titular character, an American football coach who moves to England to manage a struggling soccer team.
The show’s charm comes from its heartwarming approach to storytelling. Ted’s relentless optimism and “believe” philosophy have resonated with viewers worldwide, creating a cultural phenomenon that transcends the sports comedy genre.
Supporting performances from Hannah Waddingham as team owner Rebecca Welton and Juno Temple as marketing guru Keeley Jones add depth to the ensemble cast. Their character development throughout the series provides emotional weight to balance the comedy.
While once Apple TV+’s most popular show, recent reports indicate Severance has now surpassed Ted Lasso in popularity. This shift may reflect changing viewer preferences and the growing subscriber base of the streaming service.
All three seasons of Ted Lasso are available to stream on Apple TV+. The show’s complete arc tells a satisfying story about friendship, personal growth, and the impact one person can have on a community.
Some critics have noted that while the third season didn’t quite reach the heights of earlier installments, the complete Ted Lasso experience remains one of Apple TV+’s strongest offerings. The writing team, which includes Brett Goldstein (who also stars as Roy Kent), has created memorable characters that viewers genuinely care about.
For newcomers to Apple TV+, Ted Lasso provides an excellent entry point to the service’s growing catalog of original content.
3. Silo
Silo stands out as one of the best sci-fi TV shows today on Apple TV+. This compelling series explores the lives of the last people on Earth who reside in a giant underground bunker.
The show stars Rebecca Ferguson, Tim Robbins, and Common in a dystopian future where humanity survives in a controlled environment. Ferguson delivers a standout performance as the protagonist navigating the mysteries of her underground world.
Viewers have praised Silo for its consistent quality throughout the series. The storytelling remains complex yet accessible, allowing audiences to follow the intricate plot without feeling overwhelmed.
The production value of Silo impresses with its detailed set design that brings the underground world to life. Every level of the silo has its own distinct character, reflecting the class structure and history of this confined society.
Currently, a new season of Silo is streaming on Apple TV+. The show continues to build on its intriguing premise while introducing new elements to keep viewers engaged.
For science fiction fans, Silo offers the perfect blend of mystery, social commentary, and character development. The show poses thought-provoking questions about truth, power, and survival.
Silo appears on multiple “best of” lists, confirming its status as one of Apple TV+’s strongest offerings. It sits alongside other popular titles like Severance and Ted Lasso in the platform’s most watched content.
Those interested can watch Silo exclusively on Apple TV+ with a subscription to the streaming service.
4. Slow Horses
Slow Horses stands as one of the most acclaimed shows on Apple TV+. This spy thriller follows a team of MI5 agents who have been exiled to Slough House after making career-ending mistakes.
The series stars Gary Oldman as Jackson Lamb, the gruff and cynical leader of these outcast spies. His performance brings a perfect blend of dark humor and gravitas to the role, anchoring the show with his commanding presence.
Critics have given the fourth season a perfect 100% rating, making it one of Apple’s highest-rated shows. The consistent quality across all seasons has earned it a devoted following among viewers who appreciate intelligent espionage dramas.
The supporting cast includes Jack Lowden and Kristin Scott Thomas, who deliver equally compelling performances. Their characters navigate complex plot lines full of twists, betrayals, and unexpected alliances.
What sets Slow Horses apart is its refreshing approach to the spy genre. Rather than focusing on glamorous agents with high-tech gadgets, it spotlights the outcasts who work in dingy offices but still find themselves entangled in dangerous missions.
The show balances intense action sequences with sharp dialogue and character development. Each episode builds tension while revealing more about the complex personalities that make up the Slough House team.
Slow Horses has become one of Apple TV+’s most popular shows, consistently appearing in the platform’s top 10. Its success stems from excellent writing, production values, and performances.
Despite its critical acclaim, some viewers feel the show doesn’t get recommended often enough. This makes it something of a hidden gem on the streaming service, waiting to be discovered by more viewers.
5. For All Mankind
“For All Mankind” stands as one of the most compelling shows available on Apple TV+. This drama presents an alternate history where the Soviet Union beats the United States to the moon, dramatically altering the course of the space race.
The show stars Joel Kinnaman, Toby Kebbell, and Krys Marshall in a fascinating “what if” scenario that reimagines our space exploration history. Created by Ronald D. Moore, the series blends historical events with fictional storylines to create a unique viewing experience.
Many viewers note that the show gets better with each season, developing its characters and storylines in increasingly engaging ways. The attention to technical detail and historical accuracy makes it particularly appealing to space enthusiasts.
Some critics consider it the best show on Apple TV+. The series opened with significant impact when Apple TV+ launched in 2019, setting a high standard for the platform’s original content.
The show’s premise allows for exploration of social and political themes through the lens of an extended space race. Characters face both personal challenges and those related to their roles in advancing space technology.
The production values remain consistently high throughout the series. Realistic special effects and set designs create a believable alternate timeline where space exploration advanced more rapidly than in our reality.
For viewers interested in science fiction with a historical twist, “For All Mankind” offers thoughtful storytelling and character development. It represents Apple TV+’s commitment to “trippy, spacey” prestige programming.
The series continues to attract new viewers while maintaining a dedicated fan base. Its exploration of how slight historical changes might have dramatically altered our technological advancement provides food for thought long after each episode ends.
6. Foundation
Foundation is one of the most ambitious sci-fi shows on Apple TV+. Based on Isaac Asimov’s award-winning novels, the series follows a band of exiles on their journey to save humanity and rebuild civilization.
The visual effects in Foundation are truly spectacular. Viewers have praised the show’s impressive cinematography and world-building. The series creates a rich, immersive universe that brings Asimov’s complex sci-fi concepts to life.
Foundation stands among Apple TV+’s best sci-fi offerings. It joins other notable genre shows like For All Mankind and Dark Matter in Apple’s growing library of quality science fiction content.
The storyline spans centuries and follows mathematician Hari Seldon’s prediction of the Galactic Empire’s collapse. His followers work to preserve knowledge and rebuild society according to his plan. The narrative weaves multiple timelines and characters into an epic saga of politics, science, and human nature.
The cast delivers strong performances that help ground the sometimes complex plot. Jared Harris portrays Hari Seldon with nuance, while Lee Pace brings intensity to his role as the emperor.
Currently, the show ranks 15th on Apple TV’s Most Popular Now list. This indicates its continued popularity despite competition from newer releases.
The production values are extraordinary. Foundation features stunning set designs, costumes, and special effects that rival big-budget movies. Each episode feels like a cinematic experience rather than typical television.
While the series takes creative liberties with Asimov’s source material, it maintains the philosophical themes that made the books influential. Questions about humanity’s future, the nature of power, and scientific progress remain at its core.
7. Mythic Quest
Mythic Quest is a comedy series that stands as one of the best Apple TV+ shows currently available. The show takes viewers into the chaotic world of video game development at a fictional studio that produces the massively multiplayer online game “Mythic Quest.”
Led by Rob McElhenney as Ian Grimm, the narcissistic creative director, the show features a talented ensemble cast including Charlotte Nicdao as lead engineer Poppy Li. Their complicated professional relationship forms the heart of the series as they navigate the challenges of creating and maintaining a popular game.
Despite its quality, Mythic Quest remains underappreciated and underwatched by many viewers. Part of this may stem from its title, which might mislead potential viewers into thinking it’s a fantasy series rather than a workplace comedy.
The show has received critical acclaim for its authentic portrayal of gaming culture and workplace dynamics. Its special COVID episode was particularly well-received for its creative approach to addressing the pandemic within the show’s universe.
Currently ranking among the top 10 most popular shows on Apple TV+, Mythic Quest combines humor with surprising emotional depth. Episodes often tackle relevant issues in the tech industry, from gender discrimination to crunch culture.
The show’s writing displays a sharp understanding of the gaming industry while remaining accessible to viewers unfamiliar with that world. Its characters are flawed but endearing, allowing audiences to invest in their personal and professional journeys.
For those seeking a smart workplace comedy with heart, Mythic Quest delivers consistent entertainment with its blend of humor, tech satire, and character development.
8. The White Lotus
The White Lotus is a critically acclaimed social satire that has become one of the most popular shows available on Apple TV+. The series follows various guests and employees at an exclusive luxury resort over the course of one eventful week.
Created as a comedy-drama, the show expertly blends humor with sharp social commentary. The series examines wealth inequality, privilege, and human behavior in a confined paradise setting.
The White Lotus features an ensemble cast delivering powerful performances. Their complex characters navigate relationships, personal crises, and social dynamics while vacationing at the picturesque resort.
Each season of The White Lotus takes place at a different resort location within the fictional White Lotus chain. This anthology approach allows the show to explore new settings, characters, and themes while maintaining its signature satirical style.
The series has received numerous awards and critical praise for its writing, direction, and acting. It ranks high on many “best of” lists, including being mentioned among the best shows on Max.
Viewers appreciate the show’s ability to blend comedy with darker themes. The White Lotus offers biting commentary on social issues while remaining entertaining and accessible to audiences.
The series premiered in 2021 and continues to attract viewers to Apple TV+. It competes successfully with other popular Apple TV+ offerings like Severance, Ted Lasso, and Dope Thief.
For fans of smart, darkly humorous television that offers social commentary, The White Lotus provides an engaging viewing experience. Its popularity continues to grow as more viewers discover this unique series.
9. Dope Thief
“Dope Thief” is one of Apple TV+’s standout crime dramas that deserves attention from viewers seeking gripping storytelling. The series follows two lifelong friends in Philadelphia who pose as DEA agents to rob small-time drug dealers, a scheme that inevitably leads to complications.
The show stars Brian Tyree Henry and Wagner Moura as the central duo whose criminal enterprise spirals beyond their control. Henry’s performance has been particularly praised, with critics noting he owns the Apple series with his compelling portrayal.
Executive produced by acclaimed filmmaker Ridley Scott, “Dope Thief” delivers the high production values and tense atmosphere viewers have come to expect from Apple TV+ original programming. The Philadelphia setting provides a gritty backdrop for the unfolding drama.
The premise may sound straightforward, but the execution elevates the material beyond standard crime fare. The relationship between the two leads forms the emotional core of the series, exploring themes of friendship, loyalty, and moral compromise.
Some reviewers have already placed it among their top 10 shows of the year, indicating its strong critical reception. The series has been described as a “high-grade crime drama” that stands out in Apple’s growing catalog.
Those interested can get a preview of the series through its official trailer on YouTube, which showcases the tension and quality of the production. The complete series is available to stream exclusively on Apple TV+ for subscribers.
With its compelling performances, expert direction, and nuanced exploration of crime’s consequences, “Dope Thief” represents the kind of thoughtful, engaging content that has helped establish Apple TV+ as a serious contender in the streaming landscape.
10. Shrinking
“Shrinking” is one of Apple TV+’s standout comedies that blends humor with emotional depth. The show follows Jimmy, a therapist struggling with grief after losing his wife while trying to maintain his roles as a father, friend, and mental health professional.
In a bold move, Jimmy decides to take a more direct approach with his therapy clients. He starts telling them exactly what he thinks instead of following traditional therapeutic methods. This unconventional approach leads to significant changes in his patients’ lives and his own.
The series stars Jason Segel as Jimmy, with a supporting cast that includes Harrison Ford in a rare television role. Their chemistry adds both heart and humor to the storyline.
Critics have praised the second season of Shrinking for its excellent performance, earning a remarkable 97% score on Rotten Tomatoes. This is even higher than the first season’s respectable 91% rating.
The show has gained enough popularity to be featured in Apple TV+’s Most Popular Now collection. It continues to attract viewers with its perfect balance of comedy and emotional depth.
Viewers on social media platforms have expressed strong positive reactions to the series. One Reddit user described it as the “best currently on now” and worth the monthly subscription fee for Apple TV+.
The premise of a grieving therapist trying a more direct approach with his clients provides both comedic situations and touching moments. This unique hook sets “Shrinking” apart from other comedy-dramas on streaming platforms.
Innovative Features
Apple TV offers several standout features that elevate the viewing experience. The color adjustment technology works with your iPhone to automatically calibrate your TV screen colors for optimal viewing. Simply point your iPhone camera at the TV once, and the system handles the rest.
The interface runs noticeably faster and cleaner compared to many competing streaming devices. This responsiveness creates a more enjoyable browsing experience when searching for content.
Apple TV’s “Enhance” feature improves video quality in real-time, making older or lower-resolution content appear sharper and more vibrant. This technology has been tested across various movies with impressive results.
Voice search functionality through Siri has been streamlined in supported apps, making content discovery faster and more intuitive.
Integration with Other Apple Devices
The Apple ecosystem integration is where the device truly shines. Users can effortlessly stream content from their iPhone, iPad, or Mac directly to their TV using AirPlay.
The Apple TV+ app synchronizes across all devices, allowing viewers to start watching on one device and continue seamlessly on another. Your viewing progress follows you regardless of which Apple device you’re using.
FaceTime capabilities have been enhanced in recent updates, enabling TV-based video calls with friends and family. This turns your living room into a social hub for remote connections.
The Fitness app integration transforms your TV into a personal trainer, displaying workout metrics from your Apple Watch directly on the big screen during exercise sessions.
iPhone users can utilize their device as a full-featured remote control with tactile feedback and voice input options.
Genres and Content Variety on Apple TV
Apple TV+ offers an impressive range of content spanning multiple genres and production styles. The streaming service prioritizes quality over quantity, with carefully curated original programming from around the world.
Exclusive Original Content
Apple TV+ stands out in the streaming landscape by focusing entirely on original content. Unlike competitors who license existing shows, everything on Apple TV+ is created exclusively for the platform.
The service excels in several key genres:
- Drama: Shows like “Severance” blend sci-fi elements with workplace drama, creating unique viewing experiences.
- Comedy: “Ted Lasso” and “Mythic Quest” offer different flavors of humor, from heartwarming to satirical.
- Mystery/Thriller: “Surface” and “Dope Thief” provide suspenseful storytelling with unexpected twists.
Apple has attracted major talent both in front of and behind the camera. Directors like Alfonso Cuarón and actors such as Jennifer Aniston have created compelling content for the platform.
New original shows and films debut regularly, with popular offerings continually refreshing the catalog.
International Shows and Films
Apple TV+ has invested heavily in international content, bringing diverse stories and perspectives to global audiences. This strategy has produced critically acclaimed shows from various countries.
Notable international offerings include:
- Pachinko: This multilingual drama spans generations of a Korean family, filmed across multiple countries with dialogue in Korean, Japanese, and English.
- Tehran: An Israeli spy thriller series that gained worldwide popularity.
- Slow Horses: A British intelligence drama featuring Gary Oldman.
The platform provides high-quality subtitles and dubbing options to make international content accessible to viewers worldwide. Many shows feature multinational casts and creative teams.
Apple’s commitment to diverse storytelling extends beyond language, incorporating various cultural perspectives and historical contexts. This approach has resonated with both critics and viewers seeking content beyond typical Hollywood productions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apple TV+ offers a diverse catalog of original shows and movies that have gained significant attention from critics and viewers. Here’s what you need to know about the best content currently available on the platform.
What are the top-rated series currently available on Apple TV+?
“Severance” leads the pack with its mind-bending workplace thriller concept that has captivated audiences. The show has received widespread critical acclaim for its unique premise and outstanding performances.
“Ted Lasso” continues to be one of Apple TV+’s biggest hits, winning multiple Emmy Awards for its heartwarming comedy about an American football coach managing a British soccer team.
“Silo” has quickly become a fan favorite with its post-apocalyptic mystery set in an underground community. The adaptation of Hugh Howey’s novels offers compelling storytelling and impressive world-building.
Slow Horses and “For All Mankind” round out the top series currently available. Both have received praise for their excellent writing and production values.
Which movies on Apple TV+ are must-watch recommendations?
“CODA,” the Academy Award winner for Best Picture, remains a standout film on the platform. This touching story about a hearing child in a deaf family showcases Apple’s commitment to diverse storytelling.
“The Tragedy of Macbeth” directed by Joel Coen features stunning performances from Denzel Washington and Frances McDormand. Its striking black-and-white cinematography makes it a visual masterpiece.
“Palmer” starring Justin Timberlake tells a moving story about redemption and found family. The film has resonated with viewers for its emotional depth and authentic performances.
How can I find Apple TV+ shows that are highly rated by critics on Rotten Tomatoes?
The Apple TV app has a “Critics Love” section that highlights content with high ratings. This curated list makes it easy to find critically acclaimed shows and movies.
You can also visit Rotten Tomatoes directly and filter for Apple TV+ content. This provides detailed critic scores and audience ratings to help guide your viewing choices.
Third-party websites that specialize in streaming recommendations often compile lists of the best shows on Apple TV+ with their corresponding critical ratings.
What exclusive content on Apple TV+ is popular right now?
“Dope Thief” has recently gained significant attention for its compelling storyline and character development. The show has quickly become one of the platform’s most talked-about new releases.
The latest season of “Mythic Quest” continues to attract viewers with its humorous take on the video game industry. The workplace comedy has built a dedicated fanbase over its run.
Severance remains at the forefront of popular Apple TV+ content as fans eagerly await its second season. The show’s unique premise and cliffhanger ending keep viewers engaged in discussions.
Are there any critically acclaimed free titles to watch on Apple TV+?
Apple TV+ occasionally offers the first episodes of popular series for free to entice new subscribers. These free episodes allow viewers to sample content before committing to a subscription.
The platform sometimes provides limited-time free access to certain shows during promotional periods. Checking the official Apple TV support page can help identify current free offerings.
New subscribers can take advantage of Apple TV+’s free trial period to watch critically acclaimed content without immediate payment. This trial provides full access to the entire catalog.
Which Apple TV+ originals are receiving the most buzz on forums like Reddit?
“Severance” consistently dominates discussions on Reddit’s Apple TV community, with fans analyzing theories and eagerly anticipating the next season. The show’s mysterious elements generate extensive speculation.
“For All Mankind” has a dedicated following that appreciates its alternate history approach to the space race. Reddit users frequently discuss the show’s detailed world-building and character development.
“Ted Lasso” maintains strong popularity in online discussions despite concluding its primary storyline. Fans continue to share favorite moments and quotes from this beloved comedy series.
