Apple TV+ has swiftly made its mark in the streaming world offering a treasure trove of original series that have captured audiences and critics alike. With an impressive lineup of shows boasting IMDb ratings of 8 or higher, let’s dive into ten of the standout series that have defined the platform.
1. Ted Lasso (IMDb: 8.8)
Directors: Multiple, including Declan Lowney and M.J. Delaney
Starring: Jason Sudeikis, Hannah Waddingham, Brett Goldstein
“Ted Lasso” is a heartwarming comedy that follows an American football coach, Ted, who takes the reins of a struggling English soccer team. Jason Sudeikis shines as the eternally optimistic Ted, bringing a feel-good vibe to this charming series that celebrates kindness and teamwork.
2. Severance (IMDb: 8.7)
Director: Ben Stiller
Starring: Adam Scott, Zach Cherry, Britt Lower
In “Severance,” a mind-bending thriller directed by Ben Stiller, employees undergo a radical procedure that separates their work memories from their personal lives. This eerie concept creates a captivating narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
3. For All Mankind (IMDb: 8.1)
Creator: Ronald D. Moore
Starring: Joel Kinnaman, Michael Dorman, Wrenn Schmidt
Imagine a world where the space race never ended. “For All Mankind” explores this alternate history, showcasing a compelling vision of an America where astronauts are celebrated as heroes. Ronald D. Moore, known for his work on “Battlestar Galactica” crafts an engaging narrative that captivates the imagination.
4. Slow Horses (IMDb: 8.1)
Director: James Hawes
Starring: Gary Oldman, Jack Lowden, Kristin Scott Thomas
Based on Mick Herron’s novels “Slow Horses” follows a group of misfit British intelligence agents working in a less-than-glamorous department of MI5. Gary Oldman delivers a standout performance as the disheveled Jackson Lamb, making this spy thriller both intriguing and entertaining.
5. Pachinko (IMDb: 8.4)
Directors: Kogonada and Justin Chon
Starring: Youn Yuh-jung, Lee Min-ho, Kim Min-ha
Adapted from Min Jin Lee’s acclaimed novel, “Pachinko” tells the sweeping saga of a Korean immigrant family across four generations. The series artfully navigates different time periods and languages, weaving a rich tapestry of love, loss, and resilience.
6. Black Bird (IMDb: 8.1)
Creator: Dennis Lehane
Starring: Taron Egerton, Paul Walter Hauser, Ray Liotta
“Black Bird” is a gripping miniseries based on true events following a convicted drug dealer who must elicit a confession from a suspected serial killer while incarcerated in a maximum-security prison. The performances by Taron Egerton and Paul Walter Hauser are particularly powerful.
7. Prehistoric Planet (IMDb: 8.6)
Executive Producer: Jon Favreau
Narrator: David Attenborough
This stunning nature documentary series uses cutting-edge CGI to bring dinosaurs back to life offering a breathtaking glimpse into prehistoric Earth. With David Attenborough’s iconic narration “Prehistoric Planet” is both educational and visually captivating.
8. Hijack (IMDb: 8.0)
Directors: Jim Field Smith and Mo Ali
Starring: Idris Elba, Neil Maskell, Eve Myles
“Hijack” unfolds in real-time following the hijacking of a flight from Dubai to London. Idris Elba plays a skilled negotiator trying to save the passengers, making this thriller a nail-biting experience from start to finish.
9. The Morning Show (IMDb: 8.2)
Directors: Multiple, including Mimi Leder and Tucker Gates
Starring: Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, Steve Carell
This drama provides a behind-the-scenes look at the cutthroat world of morning television. With stellar performances from Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon, “The Morning Show” dives deep into themes of power, rivalry and resilience in the media landscape.
10. Silo (IMDb: 8.1)
Creator: Graham Yost (based on Hugh Howey’s novels)
Starring: Rebecca Ferguson, Tim Robbins, Rashida Jones
Set in a dystopian future where humanity resides in a vast underground silo, “Silo” follows a group seeking to uncover the truth about their world. With a strong ensemble cast led by Rebecca Ferguson, this mystery series keeps viewers guessing.
These top-rated series showcase Apple TV+’s commitment to delivering quality programming across various genres—from comedy and drama to sci-fi and documentary. With strong performances, innovative storytelling, and impressive production values, these shows have solidified Apple TV+ as a major player in the streaming landscape.