As a longtime fan of Apple TV+ and a connoisseur of all things entertainment, I must say that the lineup of shows on this platform is nothing short of remarkable. Each series offers a unique perspective and depth that keeps me engaged from start to finish.

One show that particularly stands out for me is “Swagger.” Growing up in the basketball-crazy city of Los Angeles, I can relate to the pressures and challenges faced by the young protagonist as he navigates the treacherous waters of potential sports superstardom. The writers do an exceptional job of capturing the raw emotions and complexities of this experience without resorting to melodrama.

Another series that resonated with me is “Sunny.” As a fan of Rashida Jones’ work, I was thrilled to see her deliver one of the best performances of her career in this genre-defying drama. The surreal and striking narrative is unlike anything I’ve seen before, and it’s a testament to the power of storytelling when a show can be both unexpected and moving at the same time.

Of course, how could I forget “Ted Lasso”? This series has become a cultural phenomenon, and it’s easy to see why. With its heartfelt humor and relatable characters, “Ted Lasso” has won over audiences worldwide. I can’t wait to see how the story unfolds in its third and potentially final season.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go binge-watch these shows again because, as they say, there just isn’t enough time in the day to enjoy all the great content Apple TV+ has to offer! And remember, life is like a box of chocolates – you never know what you’re gonna get until you tune in to Apple TV+.

As a long-time fan of quality television shows, I’m thrilled to share some exciting news for fellow binge-watchers like myself! This weekend, from January 4th to 5th, Apple TV+ will be offering its content for free. It seems that the streamer is eager for viewers to catch up on “Severance” before the highly anticipated second season premieres on January 17th. Having watched the first season myself, I can confidently say that it’s a must-watch.

The show is not only engaging and suspenseful but also thought-provoking, making it an excellent addition to any TV lover’s lineup. And guess what? Apple TV+ has 19 other shows worth checking out as well! The list is constantly being updated with new titles, so be sure to keep an eye on the latest additions indicated by an asterisk.

In my experience, Apple TV+ offers a wide variety of high-quality content that caters to various tastes, making it a worthy addition to any streaming service rotation. So, mark your calendars and get ready for a fantastic weekend of binge-watching! Happy New Year’s Eve Eve, and happy viewing!

Apple TV+, within a brief span, has established itself as a platform for premium, high-budget miniseries, dramas, and original comedies. It has achieved significant accolades with shows such as Ted Lasso, The Morning Show, and Black Bird. However, the streaming service is still in the process of defining its unique identity and brand. Each week seems to bring a new release, all aimed at capturing the current streaming trend. Navigating through the vast library can be challenging to find quality content. That’s where we step in! Here are the top shows available on Apple TV+, a list that will be updated regularly as new programs worthy of your time are released.

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This Month’s Critic’s Pick

Severance

Year: 2022–present
Length: 1 season, 9 episodes
Creator: Dan Erickson

One of the highly praised series from the 2020s, “Severance,” explores an innovative idea and pushes it to unanticipated realms. In this show, Adam Scott portrays an employee at a cutting-edge company that introduces a unique method separating work life and personal life in an unprecedented manner. Imagine if your professional self and private self led separate lives with distinct memories and worries? Britt Lower, Patricia Arquette, and Christopher Walken join Scott in this remarkably intelligent and humorous sci-fi drama. After a long wait, the new season is set to premiere on January 17.

Severance
apple tv+

The Afterparty

Year: 2022–present
Length: 1 season, 8 episodes
Creator: Christopher Miller

One of the brilliant minds behind “The LEGO Movie” and “21 Jump Street,” as well as a producer for “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-verse,” Christopher Miller is renowned as one of Hollywood’s sharpest content creators. His witty murder mystery series, unlike anything currently on TV, cleverly adapts an Agatha Christie plot with humor from some of the funniest comedians in the industry. Tiffany Haddish stars as a detective investigating a murder that unfolds from the perspectives of partygoers, including characters portrayed by Sam Richardson, Ben Schwartz, Ilana Glazer, Dave Franco, Zoe Chao, and Ike Barinholtz.

The Afterparty
Apple TV+

Black Bird

Year: 2022
Length: 1 season, 6 episodes
Creator: Dennis Lehane

Originally penned by the author of “Shutter Island” and “Mystic River,” the gripping miniseries “Black Bird” tells the true account of Jimmy Keene (portrayed by Taron Egerton), a criminal incarcerated when he was approached by authorities to snitch on someone far more notorious. Keene found himself in a detention center with a vicious individual named Larry Hall (played by Paul Walter Hauser), a suspected multiple murderer whom the police believed to be a monster. They proposed that if Keene could coax Hall into confessing, he would receive an early release. This suspenseful and emotional series is truly remarkable.

Black Bird
apple tv+

Dickinson

Year: 2019-2021
Length: 3 seasons, 30 episodes
Creator: Alena Smith

When the tales of Apple TV+ are penned down, I’ll proudly claim that this series was among the pioneers, a groundbreaking show launched in 2019 that significantly shaped Apple’s early identity. Hailee Steinfeld breathes mesmerizing life into the title role, portraying the legendary Emily Dickinson. It’s remarkable how a coming-of-age reinterpretation of such an iconic author could prove so impactful. Yet, this series stands out due to its brilliant writing and hilarious, sharp performances that maintain their excellence throughout the entire three-season journey.

Dickinson
apple tv+

*Disclaimer

Year: 2024
Length: 1 season, 7 episodes
Creator: Alfonso Cuarón

In a shift from his successful film career, the director known for “Roma” and “Gravity” brings us a gripping television thriller, adapted from Renée Knight’s bestselling novel. The series features Cate Blanchett, Kevin Kline, and Sacha Baron Cohen in leading roles. Blanchett, who previously starred in “Blue Jasmine,” portrays a documentarian whose life is disrupted when she receives a book that appears to expose her long-buried secrets. Captured by two of the most skilled cinematographers today, “Disclaimer” stands out as one of the visually stunning productions available on any streaming platform, and not just Apple TV+. Additionally, the stellar performances from the cast add to its appeal.

Disclaimer
apple tv+

For All Mankind

Year: 2019–present
Length: 4 seasons, 40 episodes
Creators: Ronald D. Moore, Matt Wolpert, Ben Nedivi

I was privy to the creative process behind the reinvention of “Battlestar Galactica,” whereupon I found myself collaborating on an entirely distinct brand of science fiction. This particular project paints a vivid picture of life in an alternate United States, one in which the Soviet Union beat us to the moon landing. Since then, this series has veered off in directions nobody anticipated, seamlessly integrating historical figures such as Neil Armstrong, Sally Ride, and Wernher von Braun into a narrative that challenges preconceived notions. I firmly believe that future generations will hold this drama in high regard.

For All Mankind
apple tv+

Little America

Time Period: From the year 2020 up to now (ongoing)

Number of Seasons and Episodes: The show has aired for 2 seasons with a total of 16 episodes

Creators’ Names: Lee Eisenberg, Emily V. Gordon, and Kumail Nanjiani

As a fan, it’s refreshing to witness an anthology format typically associated with horror, being creatively applied to drama and comedy in this compelling collection. The diversity of these stories offers a captivating insight into the complexities and nuances of the immigrant experience in America during the 2020s. The breadth of the dramedy is truly impressive, weaving together such a rich tapestry that beautifully illustrates the myriad narratives that (in an ideal world) define our nation.

Little America
Apple TV+

Manhunt

Year: 2024
Length: 1 season, 7 episodes
Creator: Monica Beletsky

Tobias Menzies delivers outstanding acting as Edwin Stanton, the historical figure who pursued John Wilkes Booth after the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. The creators of “Manhunt” skillfully portray this crucial moment in history that continues to echo today, a time when everything Lincoln stood for was at risk and justice was paramount. The production is exceptionally crafted, offering an engaging history lesson that breathes life into the past.

Manhunt
Stream on Apple TV+

The Morning Show

Year: 2019–present
Length: 3 seasons, 30 episodes
Creator: Jay Carson

As a movie connoisseur, I must say that “The Morning Show” served as an unmistakable indication of Apple’s eagerness to splurge, successfully luring numerous award-winning talents to their initial drama series revolving around the tumultuous backstage events of a morning news program. The show, set in the 2020s, was not just shaken by Me Too allegations against one of its anchors but also the internal strife that comes with such high-stakes operations. While it may not have carved out a significant niche in popular culture, Billy Crudup’s Emmy-winning performance is universally praised as extraordinary. Without a doubt, his captivating portrayal has played a pivotal role in establishing Apple as a go-to platform for marquee names and hefty budgets.

The Morning Show
apple tv+

Mythic Quest

Year: 2020–present
Length: 3 seasons, 30 episodes
Creators: Charlie Day, Megan Ganz, Rob McElhenney

Among the most adored comedies available on any streaming platform is one titled “Mythic Quest: Raven’s Banquet,” starring Rob McElhenney, known for his role as Mac in “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.” This show takes place within a game development company and offers consistent laughter thanks to an exceptional cast including Danny Pudi, David Hornsby, and Charlotte Nicdao.

Mythic Quest
apple tv+

Pachinko

Year: 2022–present
Length: 2 season, 16 episodes
Creator: Soo Hugh

As someone who has always been captivated by films that delve into the human spirit and resilience amidst adversity, I find the synopsis of this show particularly intriguing. The collaboration between Kogonada and Justin Chon promises a visually striking epic that spans generations, with Youn Yuh-jung, an Oscar winner from Minari, portraying a Korean woman who fought to build a life during the Japanese occupation of her youth. The drama seems moving and unpredictable, making it unlike anything currently on TV. As someone who appreciates stories that offer unique perspectives and explore the complexities of history, I am eagerly looking forward to this show.

Pachinko
apple tv+

Schmigadoon!

Year: 2021–2023
Length: 2 seasons, 12 episodes
Creators: Cinco Paul, Ken Daurio

In this witty comedy, Keegan-Michael Key and Cecily Strong take the lead roles as a duo who embark on an adventure to a land influenced by famous musicals. The initial season delved into the period of “The Music Man”, “Carousel”, and “Brigadoon”, but the second season has moved to the ’70s and ’80s, skewering shows such as “Chicago”, “Cabaret”, “Hair”, and “Sweeney Todd”. The series, overall, is intelligent, humorous, and boasts outstanding musical numbers from Broadway icons like Alan Cumming, Kristen Chenoweth, and others.

Schmigadoon!
apple tv+

Servant

Year: 2019–2023
Length: 4 seasons, 40 episodes
Creator: Tony Basgallop

M. Night Shyamalan played a significant role in producing and occasionally directing this visually striking and underappreciated thriller series from its four seasons. In this series, Lauren Ambrose portrays a Philadelphia journalist who treats a baby doll as if it were her real child. When she employs a nanny to look after the toy, her husband (Toby Kebbell) is taken aback when the doll miraculously comes alive. This is only the start of the unusual events in a show that pushes the boundaries of television by incorporating cinematic elements seldom seen on small screens.

Servant
apple tv+

Shrinking

Time Period: From the year 2023 up until now
Number of Seasons and Episodes: Spans across 2 seasons, with a total of 22 episodes
Primary Creators: Bill Lawrence, Jason Segel, and Brett Goldstein

A portion of the team responsible for “Ted Lasso” have crafted a unique blend of comedy and drama featuring Jason Segel in the role of a therapist. Instead of being straightforward, he tends to be overly candid with his clients, which leaves his fellow therapists, played by Jessica Williams and Harrison Ford (delivering one of his finest performances in recent years), utterly surprised.

Shrinking
apple tv+

Silo

Year: 2023-present
Length: 2 seasons, ongoing
Creator: Graham Yost

The author behind “Justified” has presented Apple’s finest science fiction series to date, an adaptation of Hugh Howey’s book series titled “Wool”. In a future where our planet has been devastated, the term “Silo” refers to a massive underground shelter housing approximately 10,000 residents. Delving into themes of history, governance, and power while weaving them through a compelling murder mystery led by the exceptional Rebecca Ferguson, this show is one of the best productions from the 2020s. The storyline grows even more intriguing in season two as Steve Zahn’s character enters the scene, claiming to be the last inhabitant of another silo.

Silo
Apple TV+

Slow Horses

Timeframe: Starting from the year 2022 up until now
Duration: Spanning across 4 seasons and 24 episodes
Produced by: Morwenna Banks, Will Smith, Jonny Stockwood, Mark Denton

Apple had such faith in this spy thriller, “Slow Horses”, that it commissioned all four seasons from the start and produced two of them simultaneously, airing them both in 2022. The fourth season is already out, and many fans might be wishing the series could continue indefinitely. Gary Oldman delivers an outstanding performance as the leader of Slough House, a type of semi-retirement for British spies who erred in higher-ranking positions. However, they often end up being the heroes.

Slow Horses
Apple TV+

STEVE! (martin): A Documentary in Two Pieces

Year: 2024
Length: 1 season, 2 episodes
Creator: Morgan Neville

How does director Morgan Neville cleverly divide the exploration of the extraordinary life of Steve Martin, a performer known for his creativity and unpredictability? By structuring an Apple series that essentially presents two separate full-length documentaries. The initial part employs archival footage to detail Martin’s climb to the pinnacle of stand-up comedy, a realm he abandoned when he was arguably at the zenith of his fame. The second part offers a more personal glimpse into Martin’s life since then, focusing on his movies, art, and literature. This series is essential viewing for fans of one of the greatest in the comedy world.

STEVE! (martin): A Documentary in Two Pieces
apple tv+

Sunny

Year: 2024-present
Length: 1 season, 8 episodes
Creator: Katie Robbins

In an unanticipated blend of genres, Rashida Jones delivers her finest performance yet in a series that’s both bizarrely surreal and strikingly original. When Suzie’s husband and son are believed to have perished in a plane crash, she’s assigned a robot for aid during her daily routine. However, an unexpected turn of events leads her to collaborate with the creation of her engineer ex-spouse to unravel the mystery behind their disappearance. This captivating series, filled with plot twists and emotional depth, stands as one of the most compelling shows in 2024.

Sunny
apple tv+

Swagger

Year: 2021–present
Length: 1 season, 10 episodes
Creator: Reggie Rock Bythewood

The series “Swagger” on Apple TV+ is often overlooked but is a deeply moving family drama about a young man’s journey through the rough seas of possible sports greatness. The attention that swarms around a promising talent, such as a potential successor to LeBron James, is overwhelming, and the show’s writers opt for authenticity over melodrama. An outstanding cast featuring O’Shea Jackson Jr., Isaiah Hill, Shinelle Azoroh, and Quvenzhane Wallis brings an impressive depth to the story, living up to the potential glimpsed in “Beasts of the Southern Wild“.

Swagger
apple tv+

Ted Lasso

Timeframe: The years span from 2020 to 2023.
Duration: It consists of three seasons and a total of 34 episodes.
Craftsmen: Jason Sudeikis, Bill Lawrence, Brendan Hunt, and Joe Kelly are the masterminds behind it.

It’s surprising how shows that are based on advertisements can become so successful. Yet, here we stand with Apple boasting about arguably the largest streaming comedy ever, a series that has swept the Emmys for Best Comedy, Best Actor (Jason Sudeikis), and Best Supporting Actor (Brett Goldstein) in two consecutive years. As it enters its third and possibly final season, Ted Lasso is an enormous hit. Every streaming platform dreams of having a show like this.

Ted Lasso
apple tv+

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2024-12-30 21:55