Apple TV’s 10 best shows ever, including a brand-new entry

Apple TV: 10 Best Shows of All Time (Including a Groundbreaking New Entry)

With its relentless push for original storytelling, Apple has reshaped expectations for streaming entertainment. Since launching in November 2019, Apple TV+ has established a reputation for high-quality, exclusive programming—driven by Emmy and Oscar-winning creators and bolstered by aggressive investment in content production. According to Variety, Apple TV+ reached just over 20 million paid U.S. subscribers in 2023, distinguishing itself in a crowded streaming market by maintaining a curated catalog centered on quality over sheer volume.

Apple’s interconnected ecosystem weaves its streaming platform seamlessly into daily life. Picture this: a viewer moving from their iPhone or iPad to their living room’s Apple TV 4K console, all while their watch keeps track of their time spent binging. Interoperability within Apple hardware allows for straightforward access, swift hand-off between devices, and elevated audio-visual fidelity—features that deeply enhance the viewer’s journey through prestige cinema and original series. How has this precise design philosophy shaped your television habits—or prompted you to revisit acclaimed shows? Let’s uncover the ten best Apple TV originals to date, complete with a surprise new release taking audiences by storm right now.

How We Chose the 10 Best Apple TV Shows

Behind the Selections: A Transparent Process

A multi-layered process determined which shows earned spots on Apple TV’s 10 best ever list. Each pick resonated with both critics and audiences, yet the factors weighed varied in influence.

Critical Acclaim Drives Selections

Reviewers from trusted sources like Rotten Tomatoes and Metacritic shaped the short list by awarding high average ratings. Only series that scored at least 80% on Rotten Tomatoes or a Metascore of 75 and above moved forward. Major outlets—The New York Times, Variety, and The Hollywood Reporter—contributed qualitative assessments, turning the spotlight on original storytelling and standout performances.

Emmy Wins Define Prestige

Quantifiable recognition through major Emmy wins and nominations provided an edge in the selection process. For example, "Ted Lasso" amassed 8 Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series, while "The Morning Show" brought home a Primetime Emmy and several nominations across acting and production categories (Emmys.com).

User Popularity Influences, but Does Not Dictate

Apple TV’s own “Top Charts”, viewership statistics from services like Parrot Analytics, and ratings from tens of thousands of users at IMDb offered insight into actual fan engagement. Audience approval reflected sustained buzz around shows like "Severance" and "For All Mankind", which consistently rank in Apple’s top five most-watched original series in 2023–2024.

Spotlighting Innovation: A Must-Watch Brand-New Entry

The list features one brand-new Apple TV original released in the past year. Incorporating a fresh arrival signals the platform’s ongoing innovation. Selection criteria for this position included rapid audience adoption (charting in Apple TV's top three within its debut month) and early critical reviews surpassing 85% on aggregate sites within weeks of launch.

• Shows needed high critical scores and at least one respected award nomination or win.
• Sustained user engagement weighed alongside viewership spikes following premieres and season releases.
• One innovative, fresh show joined established hits to reflect Apple TV’s evolving originals lineup.

Which shows do you think belong on this list? Does critical acclaim matter more, or do you trust the wisdom of the crowd? Share your opinions as you explore our meticulously curated selections.

The Evolution of Apple TV Originals: From Pioneer Series to Award-Contenders

Apple TV+ made its debut on November 1, 2019, launching with just nine original titles. The platform prioritized quality over quantity from its inception, investing more than $6 billion in original programming during its first year of operation, according to The Wall Street Journal. This aggressive approach established Apple TV+ as a major contender in the crowded streaming landscape.

Milestone Moments in Apple TV Originals

• “The Morning Show”, starring Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, and Steve Carell, headlined the streaming service’s initial slate and immediately generated Emmy buzz. Within its first season, the show secured eight Primetime Emmy nominations in 2020, signaling Apple’s intent to compete on the prestige television stage.
• “Ted Lasso” launched in August 2020 and quickly became the breakout hit of the platform. The series won 7 Primetime Emmy Awards in 2022, including Outstanding Comedy Series and acting nods for Jason Sudeikis, Brett Goldstein, and Hannah Waddingham. “Ted Lasso" reshaped public perception by delivering warmth and optimism, propelling Apple TV+ subscriber growth—Sensor Tower data indicated a 40% spike in app downloads following the premiere of its second season.
• “Severance” arrived in 2022, capturing attention with its high-concept, dystopian premise. Adam Scott led the cast of this Ben Stiller-directed series, which amassed 14 Emmy nominations during its inaugural season. The show added depth to Apple’s catalog, demonstrating the capacity for both critical acclaim and genre innovation on the platform.
• When “CODA” won Best Picture at the 94th Academy Awards in 2022, Apple TV+ became the first streaming service to secure this honor. The film’s victory solidified Apple TV+ as a powerhouse—not just for television but for cinematic storytelling as well.

Innovative Programming and Genre Expansion

Over just four years, Apple TV+ diversified its slate far beyond scripted drama and comedy. Series like “For All Mankind” explored alternate space race histories, while “Mythic Quest” lampooned the world of video game development. Documentaries, children’s shows, and international productions further broadened the platform’s scope, with Canneseries and BAFTA nominations for titles like “Slow Horses” and “Trying.”

• The willingness to commission visionary projects directly contributed to Apple TV+ achieving the highest average critical score for its originals among major streamers, as measured by Rotten Tomatoes. By March 2024, Apple’s originals earned an average Tomatometer score of 86%, outpacing competitors like Netflix (73%) and Amazon Prime Video (76%).
• The platform’s targeted investment led to more than 370 wins and 1,500 award nominations, according to official Apple statistics. Landmark programs consistently attracted A-list actors, visionary showrunners, and high-profile directors across its growing catalog.

Which series will claim the next breakthrough moment? With each new original, Apple TV+ continues to set new standards for ambition and artistry within streaming entertainment.

Critically Acclaimed and Emmy-Winning Apple TV Shows

Examining Apple TV’s credentials within the prestige television landscape, several titles stand out as awards magnets and critical darlings. These series set new benchmarks for streaming originals, with accolades that include multiple Primetime Emmy Awards and near-universal acclaim from major critics. Which Apple TV shows have left the most indelible mark on the industry and audience conversations? Explore the data-driven results below.

• “Ted Lasso”: This breakout comedy dominated the Primetime Emmy Awards, winning Outstanding Comedy Series in both 2021 and 2022 (Emmys.com). Jason Sudeikis led a cast recognized for both ensemble and individual performances. With a record 20 nominations in 2022, “Ted Lasso” matched “Modern Family” for most nominations ever received by a comedy series in a single year.
• “The Morning Show”: Since debuting in 2019, “The Morning Show” has consistently attracted praise from critics, earning Emmy nominations for Lead Actress (Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon) and Supporting Actor (Billy Crudup), with Crudup winning Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series at the 2020 Primetime Emmys (Emmys.com). The series, renowned for its nuanced exploration of workplace power and accountability, represents one of Apple’s highest-profile original productions.

Apple Studios invests heavily in production values that rival feature film standards. Examine the cinematography of “The Morning Show” or the intricate set design in “Ted Lasso”—these visuals reflect budgets frequently reported at or above $15 million per episode (Variety, 2021). Apple shows consistently deliver sleek, cinematic visuals and audio—providing viewers with a premium television experience unique within the current streaming landscape.

Must-Watch Dramas on Apple TV: Unmatched Storytelling and Stellar Performances

Drama series on Apple TV consistently demonstrate the platform’s commitment to narrative depth, ambitious concepts, and first-rate performances. The shows selected deliver not only compelling plotlines but also showcase the caliber of talent that defines Apple TV’s growing prestige. Consider, as you scroll through the service’s acclaimed catalog: what sets these series apart in an era saturated by prestige television?

Severance: Surreal Concept, Masterful Execution

“Severance,” created by Dan Erickson and directed in part by Ben Stiller, merges workplace satire with psychological thriller elements in a way no other series manages. The story centers on employees at Lumon Industries, who undergo a procedure separating their work and personal memories. Adam Scott leads a distinctive ensemble, including Patricia Clarkson and John Turturro, with performances lauded by critics and audiences alike.

• The show secured 14 nominations at the 2022 Primetime Emmy Awards, with Dylan's breakroom scene often cited as one of the year’s most unnerving moments.
• Metacritic score: 83/100, reflecting the widespread critical approval according to official sources such as Metacritic and Rotten Tomatoes.
• Notably, Severance stands out due to its visually innovative direction, sharp editing, and a sound design that amplifies the show's unsettling atmosphere.

Viewers routinely analyze every scene, hunting for narrative clues, which speaks volumes about the show’s intricate plot structure. Have you noticed how the sterile office halls make even the smallest detail feel monumental?

Defending Jacob: Intense Performances & Emotional Gravity

With “Defending Jacob,” Apple TV delivered a legal drama built around the collapse of an American family facing unimaginable accusations. Chris Evans and Michelle Dockery carry the eight-part series with nuanced portrayals of parents torn between loyalty and suspicion after their son, played by Jaeden Martell, is accused of a classmate’s murder.

• Based on William Landay’s bestselling novel, “Defending Jacob” ranked in the top 10 most in-demand digital original series in the United States during its debut week in April 2020, per Parrot Analytics.
• The series received a nomination for Best Limited Series at the 2021 Critics’ Choice Awards, underlining its impact and resonance within the industry.

The pacing remains taut, and the series never shies away from the devastating implications of doubt and loyalty in a tightly-knit community. Viewers often find themselves questioning: how far would you go for your family?

Distinct Advantages of Apple TV’s Drama Lineup

Original dramas on Apple TV benefit from a willingness to invest in high-concept storytelling and cinematic production values. Unlike other streaming platforms that frequently prioritize sheer volume, Apple TV’s strategy centers on quality-first originals, often with limited episode runs and deliberate pacing. This model has produced dramas that encourage viewers not just to binge, but to reflect, discuss, and dissect the layered narratives and character motivations long after the credits roll.

The Best Comedies on Apple TV: Laughter Meets Smart Storytelling

Series That Redefine Comedy on Apple TV

Apple TV consistently curates comedies that fuse sharp humor, clever writing, and charming performances. Streaming platforms have no shortage of sitcom options, yet Apple’s approach relies on nuanced scripts and layered characters rather than generic punchlines. Writers and directors craft multi-dimensional stories, shaping each series into more than a fleeting source of amusement.

• “Ted Lasso”: When Jason Sudeikis first appeared as the indefatigably positive coach, few anticipated the global phenomenon that would unfold. “Ted Lasso” merges optimism with quick wit, but its comedic resonance springs from cast synergy and emotional storytelling. The series accumulated 20 Primetime Emmy nominations across its first two seasons, becoming the most Emmy-nominated first-year comedy in history in 2021. Rarely does a sitcom balance fish-out-of-water antics with genuine moments of vulnerability. Each episode leans equally into absurdist comedy and heartfelt drama—redefining expectations for sports comedies.
• “Mythic Quest”: Set in the high-stakes world of video game development, “Mythic Quest” thrives on workplace chaos and meta-humor. Rob McElhenney leads as Ian Grimm, blending ego and insecurity in equal measure. Scripts deliver punchy dialogue, satirize tech industry culture, and explore the relationships that shape team dynamics. Since debuting in 2020, the show has maintained a Rotten Tomatoes score above 90% for its first two seasons, drawing both tech insiders and comedy lovers. “Mythic Quest” consistently mines laughs from group dynamics while finding depth in character growth.

Actor Performances That Elevate Comedy

Comedy often succeeds on the strength of an ensemble, and Apple TV sitcoms showcase this principle. “Ted Lasso” benefits immensely from Hannah Waddingham’s portrayal of Rebecca Welton, which won her the 2021 Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. Brett Goldstein’s interpretation of Roy Kent, gruff yet deeply sentimental, quickly became a fan favorite. Meanwhile, “Mythic Quest” thrives on the manic energy of Charlotte Nicdao as Poppy Li and the understated wisdom of Danny Pudi as Brad Bakshi.

Consider the way these actors command both slapstick scenes and moments of quiet honesty. Why does a seemingly minor character in “Mythic Quest” suddenly become the source of a season’s most memorable quip? Subtle direction and improvisational prowess merge on screen, making each punchline feel earned rather than forced. Can you recall a recent comedy in which nearly every supporting player could justifiably steal the spotlight? Episodes unfold with the unpredictability and delight of live theater.

• In “Ted Lasso,” improvisational moments—often led by Nick Mohammed or Juno Temple—produce many of the series’ viral clips.
• “Mythic Quest” grants each ensemble member a defining arc, so comedic highlights shift with every episode.

Apple TV’s strongest comedies stand out for this blend of sharp scripts and daring, deeply felt performances. Want to see laughter redefined? Start with these shows and ask yourself how each episode rearranges your expectations for what television comedy can accomplish.

Brand-New Entry: The Latest Buzz on Apple TV

“Sugar”: Colin Farrell Uncovers Hollywood’s Darkest Secrets

In 2024, “Sugar” premiered as Apple TV’s boldest entry into neo-noir mystery. With Colin Farrell at the helm as private detective John Sugar, the series dives headfirst into the underbelly of Los Angeles, weaving a tapestry of classic noir motifs and modern psychological complexity. Series creator Mark Protosevich, known for “I Am Legend,” balances an original, character-driven narrative while drawing inspiration from genre legends such as Raymond Chandler and Billy Wilder.

Why “Sugar” Rises Toward All-Time Great Status

• Unlike formulaic detective shows, “Sugar” employs an emotionally charged, character-first approach—shot with striking cinematography by Damián García (“Narcos: Mexico”)—that energizes each scene with tension and visual allure.
• The storytelling approach challenges viewers to question narrative reliability, paving the way for twist-heavy plots. Flashbacks and dreamlike montages add emotional resonance rarely found in streaming originals.
• Colin Farrell’s performance, mixed with a supporting cast featuring Amy Ryan and Kirby, serves up nuanced portrayals—Variety describes Farrell’s work as “mesmerizing, with every glance hinting at both heartbreak and buried determination.”

Audience and Critic Reactions: Early Verdicts

Rotten Tomatoes reports that “Sugar” premiered with a 74% Fresh critic score and a 92% audience score (as of June 2024). The Hollywood Reporter highlights the “addictive pacing” and “unexpected tenderness” rarely seen in hard-boiled mysteries. Reddit discussions (r/television) reveal fans are quick to compare the series to masterpieces like “True Detective,” while expressing enthusiasm for its subversive narrative structure.

What’s your take? Will “Sugar” break into your personal Apple TV Top 10? Share your thoughts and join the growing debate in online forums and watch parties.

Fan-Favorite Apple TV Shows: What Keeps Viewers Coming Back?

Which Apple TV shows ignite conversation threads, inspire fan theories, and rack up repeat viewings among U.S. audiences? While critical accolades signal quality, the most passionate fan bases elevate a series into streaming legend. Take a moment to consider: what show have you caught yourself recommending over and over?

Spotlight on Intense Fandoms

More Shows Gathering Loyal Followings

Which show would you nominate as the greatest fan-favorite on Apple TV? Explore online fan communities or start your own poll—many of these series owe their extended life to exactly this kind of ongoing viewer passion.

Inside the Minds and Faces Behind Apple TV’s 10 Best Shows Ever

Showrunners Raising the Bar for Storytelling

Peerless writing rooms, dynamic creative leadership, and a willingness to take narrative risks—Apple TV’s top 10 are the product of exceptional behind-the-scenes talent. The strategy: attract renowned showrunners and creators with industry pedigree and a flair for original vision.

• Kerry Ehrin brings her bold storytelling style to “The Morning Show”, shaping its timely themes with whip-smart scripts and layered character arcs.
• Bill Lawrence, already lauded for “Scrubs,” injects energy and optimism into “Ted Lasso” as co-creator, steering a transatlantic football story into a pop culture juggernaut.
• Ronald D. Moore pilots “For All Mankind”, leveraging his sci-fi credentials from “Battlestar Galactica” and “Outlander” to build detailed, ambitious alternate histories.
• Misha Green (brand-new entry showrunner) invigorates the latest Apple TV release with dynamic genre-blending and inclusive storytelling, positioning the show with a fresh perspective for 2024.
• Nichelle Tramble Spellman designs the layered narrative of “Truth Be Told,” anchoring plot twists in sharp social commentary.

Star Power: Casts That Capture Audiences

Who leads these stories onscreen? Stellar, award-winning lineups feature both Hollywood icons and breakthrough talent, ensuring performances that consistently ignite conversations.

• Jennifer Aniston commands attention in “The Morning Show,” delivering a nuanced portrayal that earned her a 2020 Screen Actors Guild Award. Reese Witherspoon joins her with magnetic, emotionally charged performances, setting a new standard for dramatic duos.
• Jason Sudeikis becomes the heart of “Ted Lasso,” earning back-to-back Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series (2021, 2022), while the supporting cast—Hannah Waddingham, Brett Goldstein—each deliver standout comic timing and emotional resonance.
• Lee Pace heads “Foundation” with gravitas, supported by an ensemble including Jared Harris whose subtle, layered performance grounds the epic’s scale.
• Octavia Spencer anchors “Truth Be Told” with visceral intensity, earning industry and audience acclaim for her embodiment of a true-crime podcaster.
• For the 2024 brand-new show, Letitia Wright and Oscar Isaac headline, showcasing a synergy that elevates the series’ premise and generates immediate fan anticipation.

Defining Voices: Producers and Visionaries

Silicon Valley meets Hollywood at Apple TV, where executive producers—including Reese Witherspoon (Hello Sunshine), Dana Goldberg, and Simon Kinberg—leverage industry expertise to secure top creative partnerships and consistently greenlight originals that headline streaming conversations. Production companies such as Media Res, Skydance Television, and Bad Robot provide essential infrastructure, fueling Apple TV’s ascent in scripted prestige content.

Curious about the chemistry between cast and crew?

Spotlight an episode’s credits for subtle shifts in writing or tone. Which actors took on a producer role? What director’s style shaped a pivotal season finale? Enthusiasts take note—these nuanced collaborations define why these shows become Apple TV’s most talked-about originals.

Apple TV vs. Other Streaming Platforms: Unpacking the Distinction

A New Era in Streaming: How Apple TV Stacks Up

Streaming has redefined television, turning household names like Netflix, HBO Max, and Hulu into entertainment mainstays. Meanwhile, Apple TV+ entered the field in November 2019 and shifted the conversation with a commitment to quality over quantity. Looking for numbers? As of Q1 2024, Netflix reports over 260 million global paid subscribers, while Apple keeps subscription figures private, although estimates from Statista suggest Apple TV+ has exceeded 25 million paying subscribers in the United States alone. Given this difference in scale, where does Apple TV+ outperform competitors?

Exclusive Content: Where Apple TV+ Leads

• Originals per Dollar: While Netflix’s library exceeded 7,500 titles in 2023 (Omdia), Apple TV+ invested in fewer than 250, but nearly all are exclusive originals. This curated approach increases the platform’s hit-to-miss ratio, with over 30 Apple TV+ series receiving Emmy nominations since launch.
• Star Power and Creative Talent: Apple allocates generous budgets for marquee talent—$15 million per episode for “The Morning Show” (The Wall Street Journal), paralleling HBO’s investment in prestige content like “Succession” and “Game of Thrones”.
• Critical Reception: According to Rotten Tomatoes, Apple TV+ originals average a higher critics’ score than most other platforms as of late 2023, surpassing even HBO Max’s original shows in some seasons.

User Experience: Interface and Service Quality

• Interface Design: While Netflix and Prime Video present crowded menus, Apple TV+ uses minimalist navigation, fast load times, and seamless integration across the Apple ecosystem.
• Streaming Quality: Apple TV+ consistently streams at 4K with Dolby Vision and Atmos audio at no extra cost, whereas Netflix tiers access to premium formats and sound.
• Ad-Free Experience: Apple TV+ delivers all content without ads, distinguishing itself as Max, Hulu, and Netflix all introduced ad-supported tiers in 2022–2023.

Ask Yourself: What Matters Most?

Do you crave an overwhelming library or seek standout, expertly crafted originals? Are you satisfied with occasional ads, or do you demand immersion without interruption? For viewers who value cinematic fidelity and a focused, high-quality experience, Apple TV+ presents a compelling alternative—and as its awards and creative partnerships grow, the gap with legacy platforms continues to narrow.

Apple TV’s Expanding Influence in U.S. Entertainment

Major studios now compete directly with Apple TV for exclusive series and coveted intellectual properties, and this shift signals Apple’s entrenched status among the vanguard of modern Cinema and TV. Disney+ amassed 153.6 million subscribers globally by late 2022—meanwhile, Apple TV experienced a year-over-year U.S. market share jump from 3% in Q1 2021 to 6% in Q1 2023, according to Statista and Parrot Analytics. This more than doubling in share underscores the rapid adoption rates and resonant content selections driving users to the platform.

Critical darlings like Ted Lasso and Severance brought home multiple Emmy awards, but new originals debut each quarter, constantly expanding Apple TV’s influence over what American viewers binge and buzz about. Remember when limited streaming options dictated television habits? Users now access an ever-growing library marked by consistent innovation, diverse genres, and Emmy-caliber acting talent.

With expanded content investment—Bloomberg reported Apple will spend over $1 billion annually on original films and series—Apple TV signals unflagging momentum in reshaping what U.S. audiences expect from streaming services. The lineup delivers, and algorithms personalize user journeys, so every exploration into Apple TV’s shows becomes a discovery of new favorites or emerging entertainment trends. Which show will you watch next—and who knows, could the next entry break out as the best-ever?