Apple TV+ has solidified its position as a major streaming service, evolving from a newcomer to a powerhouse of quality content. Once described as “odd, angsty, and horny as hell,” it has matured into a streaming platform boasting a diverse and impressive library of shows. Many are now considering Apple TV+ as “the new HBO,” a testament to its high-caliber dramas, insightful documentaries, and engaging comedies. If you’re wondering What To Watch On Apple Tv, you’ve come to the right place.
Navigating the vast streaming landscape can be overwhelming. To simplify your viewing choices, we’ve curated a list of the best shows Apple TV+ has to offer right now. Whether you’re a seasoned Apple TV+ subscriber or a curious newcomer, this guide will point you towards your next binge-worthy obsession. And if you’re also looking for movie recommendations, be sure to check out our companion guide to the best movies on Apple TV+. For now, let’s dive into the must-watch series that make Apple TV+ a streaming service worth exploring.
Top Apple TV+ Shows to Watch Right Now
Mythic Quest
Don’t let the video game setting fool you; Mythic Quest is far more than just a show for gamers. After four seasons, it has cemented itself as one of the best workplace comedies in recent years. Each easily digestible half-hour episode takes you inside the quirky world of a fictional game studio behind the World of Warcraft-esque MMO, Mythic Quest. The series shines with its sharp writing, consistently delivering humor and unexpected emotional depth as it explores the complex relationships between the game developers. It tackles relevant industry issues with wit and intelligence, never sacrificing laughs for social commentary. For fans wanting more, Apple TV+ is expanding the universe with a spinoff anthology series, Side Quest.
Severance
The anticipation for Severance season two is palpable, and rightfully so. This show is widely credited with establishing Apple TV+ as a streaming service that delivers uniquely edgy and prestigious content. Severance centers on Mark, played by Adam Scott, a man grappling with grief who undergoes a procedure called “Severance.” This divides his work memories from his personal life memories. Initially content with this separation, his carefully constructed world begins to unravel when a former Lumon Industries colleague finds him outside of work. This encounter sets off a chain of events that forces Mark to question not only the Severance procedure but also the unsettling work of his company. Severance is a masterclass in suspense and bleakness, keeping viewers guessing and questioning the very nature of work and identity.
Silo
Silo has been hailed as “prestige sci-fi gold,” a statement that holds true even years after its release. Based on Hugh Howey’s acclaimed dystopian book trilogy, Silo plunges viewers into a subterranean bunker, the “silo,” where humanity resides after an apocalyptic event. The series intricately weaves together stories of those seeking to reproduce, those investigating mysterious murders, and viewers captivated by the unfolding mysteries within the silo and the secrets of the world outside. Renewed for multiple seasons, Silo is a must-watch for sci-fi enthusiasts and anyone seeking a gripping and thought-provoking series.
The Secret Lives of Animals
For nature documentary lovers, The Secret Lives of Animals is a captivating 10-part docuseries that explores the incredible problem-solving abilities of animals. Produced by BBC Studios Natural History Unit, this series takes you to 24 countries and showcases 77 different species, employing stunning cinematography to bring you up close and personal with the world’s most fascinating creatures. From spiders to octopi, the series unveils the hidden intelligence and adaptability of the animal kingdom.
Disclaimer
When acclaimed director Alfonso Cuarón (Gravity) helms a limited series starring Cate Blanchett, it’s a television event you shouldn’t miss. Disclaimer, based on Renée Knight’s compelling novel, showcases Cuarón’s cinematic brilliance on the small screen. Cate Blanchett portrays Catherine, a respected journalist who receives a mysterious novel that threatens to expose long-buried secrets from her past. As she investigates the book’s author, her carefully constructed life begins to crumble. Cuarón’s adaptation and direction of each episode bring a big-screen sensibility to this gripping seven-part series.
Shrinking
If you enjoy therapy-based dramas but crave a lighter, more comedic approach, Shrinking is the perfect prescription. From the creators of Ted Lasso and Superstore, Bill Lawrence, Brett Goldstein, and Jason Segel, Shrinking follows Jimmy (Segel), a therapist struggling with grief who tries unconventional methods to reconnect with his daughter and patients. While dealing with heavy themes, the show is infused with workplace comedy, focusing on Jimmy’s practice alongside colleagues played by Harrison Ford and Jessica Williams. Shrinking balances coping with life’s challenges with humor and heart, featuring a stellar cast and memorable comedic moments.
Slow Horses
Slow Horses delivers a unique blend of John Le Carré-esque espionage and The Office-style humor. Set in Slough House, a dumping ground for MI5 agents who have made career-ending mistakes, the series effortlessly shifts between thrilling action sequences and quirky character-driven comedy. While the fourth season is slightly more subdued, Slow Horses remains a compelling watch, offering a refreshing take on the spy genre with its ensemble of misfit agents and their often-absurd situations.
Bad Monkey
From Bill Lawrence, the creative mind behind Ted Lasso and Shrinking, Bad Monkey brings a darkly humorous and quirky crime story to Apple TV+. Vince Vaughn stars as a disgraced detective seeking redemption by investigating a severed arm found in Florida. The series balances its bizarre premise with heart and explores the eccentricities of “Florida Men” while delivering laughs and unexpected twists. Yes, there’s a monkey, but there’s also a compelling mystery and a cast of memorable characters.
Sunny
Sunny taps into contemporary anxieties about artificial intelligence. Rashida Jones plays Suzie, a woman grieving the loss of her husband and son in a plane crash. To cope, she’s given Sunny, a domestic robot, with whom she develops an unexpected bond as she delves into the mystery surrounding her family’s disappearance. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into daily life, Sunny offers a timely and thought-provoking exploration of grief, technology, and human connection.
Presumed Innocent
Presumed Innocent offers a fresh take on a classic whodunit. Thirty-four years after Harrison Ford starred in the film adaptation of Scott Turow’s novel, Jake Gyllenhaal takes the lead in this eight-part limited series. Gyllenhaal portrays Rusty Sabich, a Chicago prosecutor accused of murdering a colleague with whom he was having an affair. Produced by David E. Kelley, Presumed Innocent delivers the intrigue and polished production of shows like Big Little Lies and The Undoing, combined with a compelling legal drama and suspenseful mystery.
STEVE! (martin) A Documentary in 2 Pieces
While technically a documentary, STEVE! (martin) A Documentary in 2 Pieces is a must-watch for any Steve Martin fan and deserves a spot on this list of best shows. This two-part documentary from Morgan Neville, director of 20 Feet From Stardom and Won’t You Be My Neighbor?, offers an intimate and funny look at the life and career of Steve Martin. The first part explores his stand-up comedy beginnings, while the second examines his transition to acting and his enduring career. It’s a surprising and insightful portrait of a comedy legend.
Loot
Loot provides a comedic take on wealth and philanthropy. While not directly based on MacKenzie Scott’s divorce, it draws inspiration from it. Maya Rudolph stars as Molly, a woman who divorces her tech billionaire husband and embarks on a journey of self-discovery and philanthropy. Created by Alan Yang (Master of None) and Matt Hubbard (Superstore), Loot is a quirky and heartwarming comedy with a fantastic supporting cast, including Joel Kim Booster and Michaela Jaé Rodriguez.
The Big Door Prize
The Big Door Prize finally gives Chris O’Dowd the leading role he deserves. He plays Dusty, a content 40-year-old high school teacher whose life is upended when a mysterious machine appears in his small town. This machine reveals each resident’s life potential, triggering a ripple effect of changes throughout the community. Marriages are tested, paths diverge, and Dusty is forced to confront his own life choices in this charming and thought-provoking series.
The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin
The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin embraces the myths surrounding the historical figure of Dick Turpin, an 18th-century highwayman. Starring Noel Fielding (The Great British Bake Off), the series presents a comedic and fictionalized version of Turpin as someone who accidentally becomes a leader of outlaws. This six-episode series is a fun and lighthearted romp through a reimagined historical setting.
Constellation
Constellation solidifies Apple TV+’s reputation for prestige sci-fi. This eight-part thriller starring Noomi Rapace follows an astronaut who returns to Earth after a space disaster only to find that reality is subtly, but disturbingly, altered. Constellation is a mind-bending and suspenseful series that draws viewers into a world of cosmic mystery and psychological tension, perfect for fans of cerebral science fiction.
Masters of the Air
Masters of the Air, executive produced by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, is a must-see World War II drama. Based on Donald L. Miller’s book, the series tells the story of the 100th Bomb Group, the “Bloody Hundredth,” a squadron of pilots who risked their lives fighting Nazi Germany from the skies. With a star-studded cast including Austin Butler, Barry Keoghan, and Ncuti Gatwa, Masters of the Air delivers a powerful and visually stunning depiction of wartime heroism and sacrifice.
The New Look
The New Look offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of fashion during World War II. The series follows iconic designers Christian Dior, Coco Chanel, Pierre Balmain, and Cristóbal Balenciaga as they navigate Nazi-occupied Paris and shape the future of modern fashion. Starring Ben Mendelsohn, Juliette Binoche, and Maisie Williams, and featuring a soundtrack curated by Jack Antonoff, The New Look is a stylish and dramatic period piece.
Criminal Record
Criminal Record is a compelling crime drama starring Peter Capaldi and Cush Jumbo as two detectives clashing over a long-settled case. Capaldi plays Daniel Hegarty, the original detective on the case, while Jumbo plays June Lenker, who reopens it based on a fresh tip. As they investigate, Criminal Record delves into themes of law enforcement failings and racial dynamics in contemporary Britain, making it more than just a procedural drama.
Hijack
Hijack is a high-stakes thriller anchored by Idris Elba’s captivating performance. Elba plays a corporate negotiator who must use his skills to defuse a hijacking situation on a flight back home to his family. The seven-episode series unfolds in real-time, mirroring the duration of the flight, creating intense suspense both in the air and on the ground as authorities scramble to respond. Hijack is a gripping and edge-of-your-seat viewing experience.
For All Mankind
For All Mankind is a standout alternate history sci-fi series. It imagines a world where the Soviet Union beats the US to the moon, sparking a continued space race. From Ronald D. Moore, the creator of Battlestar Galactica, For All Mankind is a stylish and engaging drama that explores the political, social, and technological ramifications of this alternate timeline, with compelling characters and captivating space-exploration sequences.
Messi Meets America
For soccer fans, Messi Meets America is a must-watch docuseries. This six-part series chronicles Lionel Messi’s move to Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami club, capturing the “Messi Mania” that swept across the United States. It offers an inside look at Messi’s arrival and impact on American soccer.
Lessons in Chemistry
Lessons in Chemistry, based on Bonnie Garmus’s debut novel, is a charming and empowering period drama. Brie Larson stars as Elizabeth Zott, a scientist who, after facing sexism in her lab, becomes a cooking show host. However, Elizabeth’s cooking show becomes much more than just recipes, subtly challenging societal norms and inspiring a generation.
The Morning Show
The Morning Show is Apple TV+’s flagship mainstream drama, boasting a star-studded cast and timely storylines. Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, and Steve Carell lead this series set within the cutthroat world of morning television news. The show tackles #MeToo issues, Covid-19, and cyberattacks, offering a blend of workplace drama and social commentary, with a new season anticipated.
Shining Girls
Shining Girls is a psychological thriller starring Elisabeth Moss that deserves more attention. Moss plays Kirby, a woman who believes a recent murder in Chicago is connected to a past assault she survived. Teaming up with a journalist, she investigates, only to find her reality shifting in unsettling ways. Based on Lauren Beukes’s novel, Shining Girls blends murder mystery with sci-fi elements for a truly unique and suspenseful experience.
Foundation
Foundation, based on Isaac Asimov’s epic sci-fi series, is a visually stunning and ambitious undertaking. Starring Jared Harris as Hari Seldon, the series follows a group of exiles who attempt to rebuild civilization after predicting the fall of a galactic empire. While complex in scope, Foundation offers breathtaking visuals and strong performances, appealing to fans of grand sci-fi narratives.
The Crowded Room
The Crowded Room is a psychological thriller set in the 1970s, starring Tom Holland as Danny Sullivan, a young man arrested after a shooting. The series unfolds as an interrogator, played by Amanda Seyfried, tries to unravel the events surrounding the shooting and Danny’s troubled past. The Crowded Room is a twisty and intense limited series that explores trauma and mental health.
Ted Lasso
Ted Lasso is the feel-good phenomenon that took the world by storm. Jason Sudeikis stars as Ted Lasso, an American football coach inexplicably hired to coach a Premier League soccer team despite knowing nothing about the sport. The show’s charm lies in its wholesome messaging, endearing characters, and unwavering optimism, making it an award-winning and heartwarming watch.
High Desert
High Desert showcases Patricia Arquette’s acclaimed talent in a quirky and unique dramedy. Arquette plays Peggy, an addict who, while grieving her mother, decides to become a private investigator. The series blends moments of tragedy with laugh-out-loud comedy, featuring an eccentric cast and Arquette’s captivating performance.
Big Beasts
Big Beasts is a stunning nature documentary series narrated by Tom Hiddleston. This 10-part series explores the lives of massive mammals, from elephant seals to brown bears, offering breathtaking footage and fascinating insights into the animal kingdom. Hiddleston’s charming narration adds an extra layer of enjoyment to this captivating nature escape.
Servant
Servant, executive produced by M. Night Shyamalan, is a chilling and suspenseful psychological thriller. Set in Philadelphia, the series follows a couple who experience a mysterious and unsettling event after hiring a new nanny. Servant is moody, eerie, and occasionally darkly funny, creating a truly immersive and unsettling viewing experience with four seasons to explore.
The Essex Serpent
The Essex Serpent is a lush and atmospheric period mystery starring Claire Danes and Tom Hiddleston. Danes plays a widow who travels to Essex to investigate rumors of a mythical sea serpent, where she encounters a skeptical vicar played by Hiddleston. Based on Sarah Perry’s novel, The Essex Serpent is a captivating blend of mystery, romance, and period drama.
Dickinson
Dickinson is a unique and anachronistic dramedy starring Hailee Steinfeld as a young Emily Dickinson. This half-hour series offers a quirky and modern take on the 19th century, imagining the life of the rebellious poet with sharp wit and a contemporary soundtrack. Dickinson explores themes of family, society, gender, and sexuality with a fresh and engaging perspective.
Conclusion
Apple TV+ has truly become a streaming destination for high-quality, diverse, and engaging television. From gripping dramas and mind-bending sci-fi to heartwarming comedies and insightful documentaries, there’s something for every viewer. If you’re still wondering what to watch on Apple TV, this list provides a solid starting point for exploring the platform’s impressive library. So, grab your remote, subscribe to Apple TV+, and get ready to discover your next favorite show. You won’t be disappointed by the wealth of excellent content waiting to be streamed.
