Apple TV dropped the ”Plus” from its name, but its lineup of original sci-fi series keeps expanding. If you’ve already binged ”Severance” and are wondering what to watch next, here’s a breakdown of the best science fiction shows currently available on the platform.
Silo Apple TV series
Based on Hugh Howey’s trilogy, ”Silo” envisions a grim future where humanity survives in a massive underground bunker. Class struggles, birth control policies, unsolved murders, and the lethal world outside keep the tension high. Rebecca Ferguson leads the cast in a series now in its third season on Apple TV.
Sugar sci-fi thriller on Apple TV
”Sugar” is a neon-noir thriller from Mark Protosevich, the writer behind ”Thor” and ”I Am Legend.” Colin Farrell stars as a quiet, empathetic private eye caught up in a tangled mystery. Visually stunning, the show flips into sci-fi territory after a surprise twist that reshapes the entire story in season one on Apple TV.
Pluribus Apple TV sci-fi mystery
Vince Gilligan’s latest turns toward sci-fi mystery with a hint of ”The X-Files.” Riya Sihron stars as Carol, caught in a global outbreak-not of disease, but uncontrollable happiness. Reminiscent of ”Invasion of the Body Snatchers,” but with a fresh take on alien invasion tropes. Sihron delivers an Emmy-worthy performance in this Apple TV series.
Widow’s Bay sci-fi and horror blend
While technically more horror than sci-fi, ”Widow’s Bay” carries strong science fiction elements wrapped in a unique style. It feels both fresh and nostalgic, blending influences from Stephen King, ”Twin Peaks,” and ”Jaws” into a creepy, eccentric, and captivating watch on Apple TV.
Invasion alien drama on Apple TV
This sprawling alien invasion drama sets itself apart by unfolding simultaneously in multiple locations across the globe, showcasing diverse cultural perspectives on the common threat. Told in real time, it effectively ramps up tension. The series is currently in its third season on Apple TV.
Murderbot series adaptation on Apple TV
Adapting Martha Wells’s cult ”Murderbot Diaries,” this show has become one of Apple TV’s breakout hits. Alexander Skarsgård plays a security robot who protects humans but secretly binge-watches TV shows in his downtime-a clever blend of action, comedy, and sci-fi.
Dr. Brain Korean sci-fi thriller
Directed by Kim Jee-woon (”I Saw the Devil”), this six-episode Korean thriller dives into dark territory. A neurobiologist discovers a way to enter the memories of the dead, using the tech to uncover family tragedy rather than for science. It’s visually stylish with a gripping narrative on Apple TV.
Sunny near-future sci-fi drama on Apple TV
Rashida Jones stars as a woman whose husband and son vanish mysteriously. As a robotic companion is given to her for comfort, she slowly uncovers haunting family secrets. Set in a near-future world, ”Sunny” draws clear comparisons to ”Black Mirror”-a mix of dark comedy morphing into a psychological drama.
Severance high-concept sci-fi on Apple TV
”Severance” firmly established Apple TV as a serious player in high-concept genre TV. Adam Scott plays an employee at a biotech company that has developed a radical procedure to split work and personal memories literally. Ben Stiller serves as executive producer and director for most episodes, proving his flair behind the camera.
Hello Tomorrow retro-futuristic series
Set in a retro-futuristic universe where door-to-door salesmen sell lunar real estate, this show shines with its meticulously crafted world and distinctive look. Featuring Billy Crudup, Allison Pill, Hank Azaria, and Susan Heyward, it sports a strong cast. Unfortunately, it was not renewed for a second season.
For All Mankind alternative history sci-fi
What if the space race never ended? This smart, large-scale alternative history imagines the US and USSR locked in perpetual competition for space dominance. Created by Ronald D. Moore and supported by a vast cast, the series is an epic sci-fi saga blending ambition and emotion on Apple TV.
Dark Matter thriller series based on novel
This high-concept thriller based on Blake Crouch’s novel asks: what if you could redo your life? Joel Edgerton stars as a college professor whose reality unravels following a strange attack. Joel Kinnaman, Jimmy Simpson, and Alice Braga round out the cast. The story keeps you hooked until the final episode on Apple TV.
Monarch: Legacy of Monsters Godzilla series
The Godzilla universe has arrived on TV in this series exploring the secret Monarch organization and its role in the monster devastation of San Francisco. Kurt Russell makes his first TV series appearance in nearly 50 years, sharing the role with his son Wyatt at different ages. That alone makes it worth watching the premiere on Apple TV.
The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey Apple TV drama
Samuel L. Jackson steps away from superhero roles for this poignant story about aging and memory loss. His character, an elderly man with Alzheimer’s, gains a temporary clarity through unexpected means to unravel the mystery surrounding his nephew’s death on Apple TV.
Foundation space opera adaptation
Adapting Isaac Asimov’s legendary book series seemed nearly impossible, yet Apple TV nails it. Jared Harris stars as Hari Seldon, a mathematician who predicts the fall of the Galactic Empire and faces exile for his prophecies. Lee Pace delivers a memorable Brother Day. This grand space opera retains the original’s philosophical depth.
See dystopian future series
Jason Momoa flexes his range in this dystopian future where humanity has lost its sight. Created by Steven Knight (”Peaky Blinders”), ”See” turns blind warriors into fierce fighters. Momoa’s charisma keeps the show engaging even when the premise feels audacious on Apple TV.
How to start watching Apple TV sci-fi shows
- If you’re new to the platform, start with ”Severance” – it perfectly exemplifies Apple TV’s approach to high-concept sci-fi.
- For a more adventurous vibe, check out ”For All Mankind” or ”Foundation.”
- Looking for something lighter? ”Murderbot” offers action and humor with a charming lead.
Apple TV sci-fi availability and viewing tips
Most shows on this list are available now, though some release episodes weekly if the latest season is still airing. Check Apple TV for the current status of each series to catch new episodes as they arrive.
Family-friendly Apple TV sci-fi options
Most titles are geared toward adult audiences. ”For All Mankind” and ”Foundation” are the safest bets for co-viewing with teens. Meanwhile, ”Dr. Brain,” ”Widow’s Bay,” and ”Severance” involve darker themes and mature content.
Apple TV’s growing sci-fi roster combines ambitious storytelling, diverse approaches, and big-name talents. While some shows hit mainstream acclaim, others explore niche ideas with thoughtful depth. The platform’s challenge will be balancing this experimental edge with broad appeal as it competes with heavyweights of streaming sci-fi, with ”Severance” setting a new genre benchmark.