Since its launch in November 2019, Apple TV+ has gone from an underdog in the streaming race to a powerhouse known for prestige television. Backed by Apple’s massive resources and a strategy focused on quality over quantity, the platform has carved out a niche with bold, cinematic originals that rival HBO and Netflix’s best. While it may not offer the sheer volume of content that other streamers boast, what it does have is a lineup filled with critical darlings, award-winners, and fan-favorite series that push storytelling boundaries.
Apple has invested heavily in top-tier talent, recruiting the likes of Steven Spielberg, Martin Scorsese, Reese Witherspoon, and Alfonso Cuarón to spearhead projects. Its series have scored dozens of Emmy wins and Golden Globe nominations, helping the platform earn a reputation for innovation, emotional depth, and production excellence.
Whether you’re into psychological thrillers, heartwarming comedies, thought-provoking sci-fi, or gritty spy dramas, Apple TV+ has something for every kind of viewer. This curated list highlights the platform’s standout shows—series that not only justify the price of a subscription but also reflect how Apple is shaping the future of streaming.
📺 Quick Look: Top Apple TV+ Shows by Genre & Theme
| # | Show Title | Genre | Year Debuted | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Severance | Sci-Fi/Drama | 2022 | Mind-bending concept about workplace identity and control |
| 2 | Ted Lasso | Comedy/Drama | 2020 | Uplifting story about kindness, leadership, and resilience |
| 3 | For All Mankind | Sci-Fi/Alt-History | 2019 | Epic reimagining of the space race with deep human drama |
| 4 | Shrinking | Comedy/Drama | 2023 | Grief, humor, and therapy with a heartfelt twist |
| 5 | Mythic Quest | Comedy/Workplace | 2020 | Game studio antics with emotional layers and satire |
| 6 | The Morning Show | Drama/Media | 2019 | Behind-the-scenes look at power dynamics in broadcast news |
| 7 | Slow Horses | Spy Thriller | 2022 | Gritty, character-driven espionage with dark humor |
| 8 | Black Bird | Crime Thriller | 2022 | Psychological tension in a real-life inspired prison deal |
| 9 | Surface | Psychological Thriller | 2022 | Memory loss and mystery in an atmospheric slow-burn |
| 10 | Silo | Sci-Fi/Dystopian | 2023 | A hidden society questions everything about their reality |
1. Severance
Severance is widely regarded as one of the most creative and innovative shows available on Apple TV+. The series follows workers at a corporation who undergo a procedure that separates their work memories from their personal lives. The show has been described as “incredible” with a “unique storyline” that keeps viewers engaged. Its brilliant concept explores the division between professional and personal identities in a way that feels both timely and thought-provoking. Adam Scott leads the cast alongside Britt Lower and Patricia Arquette, delivering performances that bring depth to this unusual premise. The show has received critical acclaim, even winning two Emmy awards for its outstanding production.
The visual aspects of Severance deserve special mention. The series has been praised as a “masterclass in production design, art direction, set design, and cinematography”. This attention to visual detail creates an environment that enhances the storytelling.
Many critics consider Severance the best television show in recent years. Its compelling plot, excellent direction, and outstanding cast combine to create a viewing experience that stands out in today’s crowded streaming landscape.
Fans have been eagerly awaiting the show’s return. After its 2022 debut, the series experienced production delays but is finally returning with its second season in 2025.
The show’s thrilling progression keeps viewers invested in the mysterious world of Lumon Industries. Viewers find themselves equally invested in both the “innie” and “outie” versions of each character, creating a uniquely engaging viewing experience.
2. Ted Lasso
Ted Lasso has become one of Apple TV+’s most beloved series since its debut. The show stars Jason Sudeikis as an American football coach who moves to England to manage a struggling soccer team, despite having no experience with the sport.
The series has garnered critical acclaim, winning an impressive 11 Emmy Awards across its run. Sudeikis leads the talented cast alongside Hannah Waddingham and Juno Temple, who deliver standout performances throughout the series.
Ted Lasso’s unique blend of humor and heart has resonated with viewers worldwide. The show’s optimistic approach and focus on kindness make it stand out in today’s television landscape.
Apple TV+ offers all three seasons of Ted Lasso for streaming. The series has been a cornerstone of Apple’s original programming and helped establish the platform as a serious contender in the streaming wars.
Recently, Ted Lasso was surpassed by Severance as Apple TV+’s most watched series. Despite this shift, it remains among the most popular shows on the platform, currently ranking third in viewership.
The show’s impact extends beyond entertainment value. Ted Lasso introduced themes of mental health, personal growth, and the importance of community throughout its narrative arc.
While some critics have noted the quality variance across seasons, particularly in later episodes, the show maintains a dedicated fanbase. Its cultural influence has sparked discussions about compassionate leadership and emotional intelligence.
For anyone new to Apple TV+, Ted Lasso represents an excellent entry point to the service. Its universal appeal crosses demographic boundaries, making it accessible to a wide audience.
3. For All Mankind
For All Mankind is widely considered the best sci-fi show of its era. This Apple TV+ series presents an alternate history that explores what might have happened if the space race never ended.
The show begins with a simple but compelling premise: the Soviet Union beats America to the moon. This small change creates a butterfly effect that dramatically alters the course of history and space exploration.
Starring Joel Kinnaman, Toby Kebbell, and Krys Marshall, the series has captivated audiences with its thoughtful approach to an alternate timeline. The Apple TV+ drama skillfully blends historical events with fictional elements.
What makes For All Mankind truly exceptional is its genre versatility. The show seamlessly mixes disaster movie elements with family drama, political thriller aspects with comedy, all while maintaining its science fiction foundation.
Critics have praised the show for its ambitious storytelling and thought-provoking themes. Each episode builds on the last, creating a rich narrative that spans decades of alternate history.
The production values are exceptional, with realistic space sequences and attention to period detail. The visual effects team deserves special recognition for creating believable space environments.
For All Mankind has been described as a “red gem” among Apple’s original programming. Its popularity has grown with each season, turning it from a hidden treasure to one of the platform’s flagship series.
Many viewers and critics now consider it the best show on Apple TV+. The series continues to push boundaries with its exploration of how space advancement might have accelerated under different historical circumstances.
4. Shrinking
Shrinking is a standout comedy-drama series on Apple TV+ that has gained significant attention from viewers and critics alike. The show follows Jimmy, a grieving therapist who decides to take an unconventional approach with his patients after losing his wife.
Jason Segel takes on the lead role of Jimmy, who struggles to balance being a father, friend, and therapist while dealing with his own grief. His character makes the bold decision to begin telling his patients exactly what he thinks, breaking traditional therapeutic boundaries.
The series features an impressive cast that includes Harrison Ford in a rare television role. Ford’s performance adds significant depth to the ensemble, creating compelling character dynamics throughout the show.
Shrinking’s unique premise blends humor with emotional depth, creating a narrative that resonates with audiences seeking both entertainment and meaningful storytelling. The writers skillfully navigate serious topics while maintaining a sense of hope and humor.
Many viewers consider Shrinking to be one of the best shows of 2023, highlighting its thoughtful approach to mental health and healing. The series doesn’t shy away from difficult emotions but handles them with sensitivity and authenticity.
Reddit communities have embraced the show, with fans describing it as absolutely lovable and worth the subscription price of Apple TV+. This enthusiastic reception speaks to the show’s ability to connect with viewers on multiple levels.
The series provides a fictional yet insightful look at therapeutic practices, though it takes creative liberties with professional boundaries. This unique angle sets it apart from other shows in similar genres.
Apple TV+ released an official trailer that perfectly captures the show’s tagline: “Sometimes you need to break down to have a breakthrough.” This sentiment runs throughout the series as characters navigate their personal challenges.
5. Mythic Quest
Mythic Quest is a standout comedy series on Apple TV+ that follows the team behind a popular multiplayer video game. The show features a talented ensemble cast who bring the chaotic world of game development to life with humor and heart.
The series centers on the workplace dynamics at a video game studio. These creative professionals face the challenges of building virtual worlds, designing heroes, and crafting compelling gameplay experiences for their dedicated fanbase.
What makes Mythic Quest special is how it balances comedy with genuine emotional depth. The show isn’t afraid to dive deeply into character backgrounds while keeping the humor flowing naturally throughout each episode.
Many viewers who have discovered the series consider it one of the best shows on Apple TV+ that doesn’t get enough attention. Its unique premise helps it stand apart from typical workplace comedies.
The chemistry between cast members creates believable workplace relationships that drive much of the show’s appeal. Their interactions capture the creative tension, friendship, and rivalry that exists in professional settings.
Reddit users have described Mythic Quest as laugh-out-loud funny with a great cast. Many consider it worthwhile enough to justify an Apple TV+ subscription on its own merits.
Critics have also responded positively to the show. Its smart writing and willingness to explore the gaming industry with both affection and criticism gives it authenticity that resonates with viewers familiar with gaming culture.
For those interested in workplace comedies with depth, Mythic Quest offers a fresh take on the genre. It succeeds by combining humor with thoughtful storytelling about creative collaboration, professional ambition, and the human connections formed in unexpected places.
6. The Morning Show
The Morning Show is a drama series that has become one of Apple TV+’s flagship productions. It features an impressive cast led by Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon, with Billy Crudup delivering an Emmy-winning performance.
The series takes viewers behind the scenes of a national morning news program. It explores the complex dynamics and challenges faced by the team responsible for delivering news to America each morning.
What sets this show apart is its willingness to tackle relevant social issues. The storylines often reflect real-world media scandals and workplace dynamics that resonate with modern audiences.
The production value is exceptionally high, with Apple sparing no expense on this prestige drama. The show features detailed sets that recreate the fast-paced environment of broadcast journalism.
Despite its popularity, some viewers have found it challenging to connect with the series. The characters can be divisive, as many display morally ambiguous traits and make questionable decisions.
In Australia and Indonesia, the show is known as “Morning Wars” rather than “The Morning Show.” This alternative title was chosen for those markets while maintaining the same content.
The series has received numerous award nominations since its debut in 2019. Critics have praised the performances, particularly those of the lead actresses who bring depth to their complex characters.
Each season tackles different themes related to media, power, and ethics. The writers continually evolve the storylines to reflect changing conversations in the real-world news landscape.
For viewers interested in media politics and workplace drama, The Morning Show offers a compelling glimpse into the cutthroat world of morning television. The series continues to be one of the most discussed shows in Apple’s growing content library.
7. Slow Horses
Slow Horses is arguably Apple TV+’s best show that many viewers have yet to discover. This spy thriller follows a team of dysfunctional MI5 agents who have been exiled to Slough House after making career-ending mistakes.
The series stars Gary Oldman as Jackson Lamb, the crude yet brilliant leader of these outcasts. His performance anchors the show with a perfect balance of cynicism and unexpected competence that keeps viewers engaged.
What makes Slow Horses stand out is its refusal to glorify spy work. Instead, it presents a grittier, more realistic view of intelligence operations with flawed characters navigating complex situations.
The writing avoids typical spy show clichés. Each season maintains tight pacing with no filler episodes, making every moment count toward advancing the story or developing characters.
Production quality remains consistently high across all seasons. The cinematography captures London’s less glamorous corners, creating an atmosphere that matches the show’s tone perfectly.
Critics have praised how the series improves with each new season. Season 4, in particular, represents the show at its best, building on character relationships established in earlier episodes.
The supporting cast features strong performances from Jack Lowden and Kristin Scott Thomas. Their characters add depth to the world and create compelling dynamics with Oldman’s Lamb.
Emmy nominations have finally brought more attention to this underrated gem. The recognition validates what existing fans have known since the beginning – Slow Horses offers some of the smartest television currently available.
For those seeking a spy thriller with substance, humor, and exceptional performances, Slow Horses delivers on all fronts. It represents Apple TV+ at its creative best.
8. Black Bird
“Black Bird” is a compelling psychological thriller that premiered on Apple TV+ in 2022. The limited series was developed by Dennis Lehane and based on a 2010 autobiographical novel called “In with the Devil.”
The show stars Taron Egerton as Jimmy Keene, a former high school football star who finds himself sentenced to 10 years in a minimum security prison. The plot takes an unexpected turn when he’s offered a deal by the FBI.
The deal requires Jimmy to befriend a suspected serial killer in a maximum-security prison for the criminally insane. His mission is to elicit a confession that would prevent the killer from being released.
Paul Walter Hauser delivers an outstanding performance as the suspected killer. The psychological thriller showcases fantastic performances from both lead actors, creating tension that keeps viewers engaged throughout the series.
The show also features Ray Liotta and Greg Kinnear in supporting roles, adding depth to the already impressive cast. This was one of Liotta’s final performances before his passing.
“Black Bird” received critical acclaim and was nominated for four Emmy Awards in 2023. Critics praised its taut storytelling and the exceptional acting performances.
The limited series format works perfectly for this story, allowing it to maintain intensity without stretching the narrative too thin. Each episode builds upon the psychological cat-and-mouse game between the two main characters.
What sets “Black Bird” apart from other crime dramas is its focus on the psychological elements rather than just the investigation. The show explores themes of manipulation, redemption, and the darkness that can exist within seemingly ordinary people.
For viewers who enjoy true crime stories with exceptional acting and writing, “Black Bird” stands as one of Apple TV+’s finest original productions.
9. Surface
Surface is a psychological thriller series that premiered on Apple TV+ in July 2022. The show stars Gugu Mbatha-Raw as Sophie, a woman struggling to piece her life back together after a traumatic head injury leaves her with severe memory loss.
The series follows Sophie’s quest to rebuild her life after what appears to be a suicide attempt. As the story unfolds, she works to understand the circumstances that led to that moment, questioning everything and everyone around her.
Sophie’s husband and friends try to help her recover memories, but there’s a lingering question throughout the narrative – can she trust what they’re telling her about her past? This creates a compelling tension that drives the storyline forward.
Critics have described Surface with mixed reactions. Some view it as an elevated thriller while others see it more as an elevated soap opera. The series earned a modest 57% score on Rotten Tomatoes for its first season.
Despite the mixed critical reception, Surface has been called one of Apple TV+’s most underrated psychological thrillers. The show’s atmospheric tension and Mbatha-Raw’s performance have received particular praise.
Created by Veronica West, Surface blends elements of mystery, psychological drama, and suspense. The series explores themes of identity, trust, and the reliability of memory.
In December 2022, Apple TV+ renewed Surface for a second season, indicating that despite mixed reviews, the show found enough of an audience to warrant continuation. The renewal suggests that Sophie’s story has more layers to uncover.
For viewers who enjoy psychological thrillers with complex female protagonists, Surface offers an intriguing premise that keeps audiences guessing throughout its run.
10. Silo
Silo is a sci-fi drama series on Apple TV+ that shows the last of humanity living in a large underground bunker. This society has strict rules. Rebecca Ferguson gives a strong performance as Juliette, an engineer who begins to question the truth about their underground world. Her journey starts after a loved one dies suddenly, pushing her to find out what is beyond their controlled environment. The show’s set design is impressive. The multi-level silo feels both small and large, creating a unique setting that supports the story.
Tim Robbins and Common round out the talented cast, though some viewers have mixed opinions about certain performances. The character development throughout the series keeps audiences invested in their fates.
Mystery drives much of the narrative, making Silo different from typical science fiction offerings. The slow-burn pacing allows for deep world-building while maintaining tension across episodes.
Critics have praised Silo as potentially the best dystopian series since Fallout, highlighting its thoughtful approach to familiar themes. The show explores questions about control, truth, and survival with nuance.
The entire first season is available to stream on Apple TV+, with a second season already confirmed. Fans of thought-provoking science fiction will find plenty to analyze and discuss.
What sets Silo apart is how it balances action sequences with philosophical questions about society and human nature.
Honorable Mentions
While the top 10 list covers some of the most celebrated Apple TV+ series, a few other titles deserve recognition for their quality and impact.
Pachinko – A beautifully crafted international drama, Pachinko tells the sweeping, multigenerational story of a Korean family living in Japan. With stunning cinematography, powerful performances, and a deeply emotional narrative, it’s one of Apple TV+’s most critically acclaimed offerings to date.
Masters of the Air – From the producers of Band of Brothers and The Pacific, this WWII epic series follows the 100th Bomb Group during the Allied air campaign over Europe. With a massive budget and a cast led by Austin Butler and Barry Keoghan, it’s a must-watch for fans of historical dramas and war epics.
Both shows demonstrate Apple TV+’s commitment to high-quality storytelling that resonates with global audiences. If you’re looking to go beyond the usual titles, these honorable mentions are great places to start.
Production and Development
Apple TV+ shows stand out for their high production values and thoughtful development processes. The streaming service has invested heavily in creating quality content with top industry talent both in front of and behind the cameras.
Creative Vision
Apple’s approach to content creation focuses on quality over quantity. The company has partnered with renowned filmmakers and producers like Steven Spielberg for Amazing Stories and J.J. Abrams for several projects. These partnerships bring unique creative visions to life.
Each series receives substantial financial backing. Apple typically invests $15 million or more per episode for flagship shows like “The Morning Show” and “See,” allowing for cinema-quality production values.
The creative teams are given significant freedom to explore complex themes. Shows like Severance and “For All Mankind” demonstrate Apple’s willingness to support ambitious, thought-provoking concepts that might not find homes on traditional networks.
Behind The Scenes
The production process for Apple TV+ shows involves meticulous attention to detail. Many series feature impressive location shooting across multiple countries, giving shows like Tehran and “Pachinko” authentic international settings.
Apple employs top technical talent in all departments. From cinematography to sound design, the technical aspects of Apple productions receive significant resources and attention.
The casting process prioritizes bringing in established stars alongside emerging talent. Shows like Masters of the Air showcase this approach with their ensemble casts.
Production schedules tend to be longer than industry standards, allowing time for refinement. This extended development period helps explain why many Apple shows maintain consistent quality across seasons.
Impact on Popular Culture
Apple TV+ shows have made significant marks on television despite being newer than many competing services. The platform’s original content has earned both critical acclaim and dedicated fanbases since its launch in 2019.
Influence on Television
Apple TV+ has challenged traditional television formats with innovative storytelling approaches. Shows like “Severance” introduced bold narrative concepts that other networks have begun to emulate. The service bangs out star-studded original shows with unique premises that stand apart from standard television fare.
“Ted Lasso” broke through to become the service’s first true cultural phenomenon, introducing catchphrases and character archetypes that resonated beyond the platform. The show’s emphasis on kindness and emotional intelligence influenced other series across multiple networks.
However, some analysts note that Apple TV+ struggles to generate the same level of cultural conversation as early Netflix originals did. A discussion on Reddit questioned how Apple TV+ hasn’t created more shows with cultural impact, suggesting the streaming landscape has fragmented audience attention.
Awards and Recognition
Apple’s commitment to quality has resulted in impressive awards recognition in a short time. The service has accumulated numerous Emmy, Golden Globe, and Critics Choice awards since its launch. “Ted Lasso” made history by winning the Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series two years in a row.
“The Morning Show” earned multiple acting nominations and wins for its stars, bringing prestige to the platform. “Pachinko” has been praised as “stunningly heart wrenching” by critics and received numerous international awards.
Shows like “Slow Horses” and “Shrinking” have garnered critical acclaim for their performances and writing. The latter has been noted for depicting imperfect characters slowly changing while remaining broken, a nuanced approach that’s earned praise.
What’s Coming Next on Apple TV+
Apple TV+ is continuously expanding its library with fresh content that keeps viewers excited. Several upcoming series and new seasons are already generating buzz:
Severance Season 2 – After long production delays, the second season of Severance is finally expected to debut in 2025. Fans are eager to return to Lumon Industries and uncover more mysteries from the innie/outie world.
Silo Season 2 – Following a suspenseful season finale, Silo will return with more revelations about the underground society and what truly lies outside the silo walls. Season 2 is already in production and is among Apple’s most anticipated returns.
Dark Matter – Based on the bestselling sci-fi novel by Blake Crouch, this mind-bending new thriller stars Joel Edgerton and Jennifer Connelly. It’s expected to premiere in 2025 and has all the ingredients to become Apple’s next breakout sci-fi hit.
Lady in the Lake – Natalie Portman and Moses Ingram headline this noir mystery series set in 1960s Baltimore. With a stylish aesthetic and suspenseful premise, this limited series is one of Apple’s biggest prestige bets for the year.
With projects like these on the horizon, Apple TV+ continues to establish itself as a home for prestige television that blends cinematic ambition with standout storytelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apple TV+ offers an impressive lineup of original series that have captivated audiences worldwide. Many shows have achieved critical acclaim and high ratings while competing successfully against content from other major streaming platforms.
What are the top-rated series available on Apple TV+ according to IMDb?
According to IMDb ratings, “Severance” stands as one of Apple TV+’s highest-rated shows with its mind-bending workplace thriller concept earning widespread praise. The science fiction drama currently holds an impressive rating above 8.5 on the platform.
“Ted Lasso” follows closely behind, maintaining exceptional ratings throughout its run. The feel-good comedy about an American football coach leading a British soccer team has resonated strongly with viewers.
“For All Mankind” also ranks among the top-rated Apple series on IMDb, with its alternative history space race narrative earning consistent high scores across all seasons.
What original programming from Apple TV+ has received critical acclaim?
“Ted Lasso” has received unprecedented critical acclaim, winning multiple Emmy Awards including Outstanding Comedy Series for its first two seasons. The show’s heartwarming approach to comedy has earned it devoted fans among critics.
“Severance” directed by Ben Stiller has been lauded for its unique premise, stellar performances, and thought-provoking storytelling. Critics have praised its originality and execution.
“Pachinko” represents another critically acclaimed Apple original, with reviewers celebrating its stunning visual storytelling and powerful multigenerational narrative spanning decades of Korean history.
Which series on Apple TV+ has the highest viewership to date?
“Ted Lasso” holds the title for highest viewership on Apple TV+, becoming the platform’s breakout hit. Its combination of humor and heart has attracted massive audience numbers across all demographics.
Though Apple doesn’t regularly release specific viewership figures, industry reports suggest “Severance” has also achieved significant viewership, particularly following its buzzworthy first season finale.
“The Morning Show,” starring Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon, remains another viewership leader for the platform since its launch title status.
What are the current trending series on Apple TV+ to watch?
“Mythic Quest” continues to trend strongly on the platform with its humorous look at video game development. The workplace comedy has maintained a dedicated following through multiple seasons.
“Shrinking” starring Jason Segel and Harrison Ford has gained significant traction with viewers. The comedy-drama about a grieving therapist who starts breaking the rules has become a popular recommendation among subscribers.
“Dope Thief” represents one of the newer trending titles on the service as of March 2025, joining the list of must-watch shows this month.
How do Apple TV+ shows and series rank compared to other streaming platforms?
Apple TV+ shows consistently earn higher average critical scores than many competing streaming platforms. The service focuses on quality over quantity, resulting in a higher percentage of well-reviewed content.
In awards recognition, Apple TV+ has rapidly caught up to longer-established competitors. The platform has earned numerous Emmy, Golden Globe, and Critics Choice nominations and wins despite having a smaller content library.
Where Apple TV+ typically ranks lower is in total viewership numbers compared to Netflix or Disney+, though individual hits like “Ted Lasso” have achieved competitive audience figures.
What recent award-winning series can be found on Apple TV+?
“Severance” received multiple Emmy nominations and wins for its first season, with particularly strong recognition in directing and production design categories. Its unique concept continues to garner awards attention.
“The Morning Show” has maintained its awards momentum through multiple seasons, with acting nominations for its ensemble cast becoming a regular feature at major television awards.
“For All Mankind” has earned technical and visual effects awards for its impressive recreation of space exploration, cementing its place among the most acclaimed science fiction series currently streaming.
