Apple TV+ is lighting a fire under its crime drama lineup this summer with the premiere of Smoke, an original series that reunites key creative forces behind Black Bird. Launching globally on Friday, June 27, 2025, the nine-episode series will kick off with a two-episode premiere, followed by weekly releases every Friday through August 15, 2025.
A Crime Series Rooted in Real-Life Arson Cases
Smoke draws inspiration from the true-crime podcast Firebug, hosted by Oscar and Emmy winner Kary Antholis. That podcast explored the case of a mysterious arsonist who set dozens of fires across California in the 1980s and ‘90s—and then wrote about them as a fiction author. Apple’s fictionalized take, penned by acclaimed novelist and Mystic River screenwriter Dennis Lehane, dives deep into the psyche of both criminals and those hunting them.
The story follows Dave Gudsen, a tormented arson investigator played by Taron Egerton, and Michelle Calderone, a driven detective portrayed by Jurnee Smollett, as they hunt down a pair of serial arsonists whose motives remain terrifyingly elusive. Egerton and Smollett’s characters are as haunted as the crimes they investigate—fueling a tense and psychological narrative that blends procedural storytelling with emotional depth.
All-Star Ensemble and Production Team
Alongside Egerton and Smollett, Smoke features a powerhouse cast that includes:
- Rafe Spall
- Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine
- Hannah Emily Anderson
- Anna Chlumsky (Emmy-nominated)
- Adina Porter
- Greg Kinnear (Oscar and Emmy-nominated)
- John Leguizamo (Emmy-winning)
Behind the camera, Lehane leads the writing and production team. Directors Kari Skogland, Joe Chappelle, and Jim McKay bring cinematic polish to the series, while executive producers include Richard Plepler (Game of Thrones), Bradley Thomas, and Dan Friedkin (through Imperative Entertainment), and Marc Smerling (The Jinx).
Building on the Success of Black Bird
Apple is clearly betting big on Smoke following the critical and award-winning success of Black Bird, which also starred Egerton and was overseen by Lehane. With Smoke, Apple TV+ seems to be creating its own signature style of slow-burn, prestige crime thrillers that emphasize atmosphere, psychology, and character development over action tropes.
This series joins Apple TV+’s rapidly growing slate of gritty originals, including Hijack, Criminal Record, and the upcoming Chief of War starring Jason Momoa. The platform, known for award-winning hits like Ted Lasso and CODA, is leveraging high production values and star power to elevate its original crime storytelling.
What To Expect From Smoke
Audiences can expect a dark, stylish, and emotionally charged crime drama that blends fact and fiction in unsettling ways. With Egerton’s intense performance at its center and a plot that slowly reveals disturbing truths, Smoke is positioned to be one of Apple’s flagship series for the summer of 2025.
Set your reminders—Smoke premieres June 27 with two episodes, and the mystery will continue to unfold each week until the explosive finale drops August 15.
Other Great Series On Apple TV+
Apple TV+ has grown into a major player in the streaming world. The service now offers many top-rated shows across different genres. Finding the best shows on Apple TV+ can help viewers get the most value from their subscription.
From award-winning comedies to gripping dramas, Apple has built a strong lineup since launching. Their original content often features big-name actors and high production values. Many shows have earned praise from both critics and viewers alike.
1. Severance
Severance has become Apple TV+’s most watched series with the launch of its second season. The show quickly claimed the #4 spot on Nielsen’s Top 10 Originals chart within just three days of Season 2’s release.
Many fans consider Severance the best show Apple has produced. Its unique premise and excellent execution have earned it widespread praise from critics and viewers alike.
The thriller stars Adam Scott, Britt Lower, and Patricia Arquette and has already won two Emmy awards. The show follows employees at Lumon Industries who undergo a procedure that separates their work memories from their personal lives.
What makes Severance stand out is how it takes a clever concept and expands it into unexpected directions. The show builds a mysterious world that keeps viewers guessing and invested in the characters’ journeys.
Some viewers feel the new episodes move slower than the first season. Despite this criticism, many still consider it one of the best shows on TV in recent years.
The visual style of Severance creates a stark, minimalist workplace that reflects the show’s themes of identity and corporate control. This attention to detail helps build the eerie atmosphere that makes the show so compelling.
Ben Stiller directs several episodes, bringing his unique vision to the series. His direction helps balance the show’s darker themes with moments of unexpected humor.
You can watch Severance on Apple TV+ with a subscription. The service offers a free trial for new users who want to check out this critically acclaimed series.
The show has built a dedicated fan base that eagerly discusses theories and hidden details online. This community has helped spread word-of-mouth recommendations that boosted the show’s popularity.
2. Dope Thief
“Dope Thief” is one of Apple TV+’s newest crime dramas that mixes tension with unexpected humor. The show stars Brian Tyree Henry as a stick-up artist who finds himself in over his head after a job goes wrong.
The series is executive produced by Ridley Scott and has quickly gained attention for its strong performances. Henry’s acting stands out, bringing depth to his complex character.
Viewers can watch “Dope Thief” with a free 7-day trial on Apple TV+, after which the service costs $9.99 per month. The show contains scenes with drugs, violence, and strong language, so it’s not suited for younger audiences.
Critics have praised the show as a high-grade crime drama with excellent performances. The Guardian even described it as having “hilarious moments like Brooklyn Nine-Nine meets Breaking Bad.”
What makes “Dope Thief” special is how it balances its gritty crime story with moments of clever humor. The writing jumps between tense situations and funny exchanges without losing its grip on the plot.
The show takes its time to build the story, using a slow-burn approach that lets viewers connect with the characters. This method helps make the stakes feel real and important.
The supporting cast works well with Henry, creating believable relationships that pull viewers into their world. Each character has clear goals and problems that drive the story forward.
Camera work in “Dope Thief” adds to its unique feel. The directors use interesting angles and lighting to set the mood for each scene, whether tense or funny.
For fans of crime shows with a twist, “Dope Thief” offers something fresh in the Apple TV+ lineup. It stands out by mixing familiar crime elements with unexpected humor and strong acting.
3. Ted Lasso
Ted Lasso stands out as one of Apple TV+’s most successful shows. This comedy series has won 11 Emmy Awards, showcasing its impact on viewers and critics alike.
The show stars Jason Sudeikis as the title character, a kind-hearted American football coach who moves to England to lead a struggling soccer team. Hannah Waddingham and Juno Temple join the cast, adding depth to the show’s emotional core.
What makes Ted Lasso special isn’t just its humor. The show balances funny moments with heartfelt stories about personal growth, mental health, and friendship. This mix helps it appeal to a wide audience.
The series ran for three seasons with a total of 34 episodes. Each season builds on the last, developing characters in ways that feel honest and earned rather than forced.
Ted’s optimism serves as the show’s backbone. His “believe” philosophy extends beyond the soccer field and into viewers’ hearts. This positive message has made the show particularly popular during difficult times.
The series consistently ranks among Apple TV+’s most popular offerings. As of March 2025, it still holds the third position on Apple’s most-watched list, despite its final season ending some time ago.
Many fans list Ted Lasso as their top Apple TV+ show. In a recent online discussion, viewers ranked it among their favorites alongside Severance and Slow Horses.
The show’s unique approach to sports storytelling sets it apart. Rather than focusing solely on wins and losses, Ted Lasso examines how sports bring people together and teach life lessons.
For new Apple TV+ subscribers, Ted Lasso often serves as an entry point to the platform. Its warm tone and universal themes make it an easy recommendation for almost anyone looking for quality television.
4. Mythic Quest
Mythic Quest is a comedy series about the team behind a popular video game. The show follows the creative minds who develop and maintain the biggest multiplayer game of all time.
The series has gained critical acclaim, currently holding a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Despite this high rating, some fans wonder why it doesn’t get more attention compared to other Apple TV+ shows.
The workplace comedy premiered in 2020 when Apple’s streaming service was still new. This timing might explain its somewhat limited coverage in the media landscape.
The show stars Rob McElhenney as Ian Grimm, the creative director with a larger-than-life ego. His character often clashes with Charlotte Nicdao’s Poppy Li, the brilliant lead engineer. Their dynamic forms the heart of the series.
Mythic Quest blends humor with thoughtful takes on gaming culture. It tackles issues like workplace relationships, creative differences, and the challenges of making art in a commercial environment.
As of March 2025, Mythic Quest ranks as number 4 on Apple TV+’s Most Popular Now list. This puts it behind Severance, Dope Thief, and Ted Lasso but confirms its status as one of the platform’s standout shows.
The series has grown beyond its initial premise. Special episodes have explored deeper themes and backstories, showing the range of the writing team.
Viewers can watch all seasons of Mythic Quest on Apple TV+. The platform describes it as a workplace focused on “building worlds, molding heroes, and creating legends.”
For anyone interested in video games, workplace comedies, or just good television, Mythic Quest offers something special. The characters are well-developed, the jokes land, and the show has heart beneath its humor.
5. Silo
Silo on Apple TV+ is one of the most captivating sci-fi series available on the streaming platform. The show is set in a dystopian future and follows the last people on Earth who live in an underground silo.
The series stars Rebecca Ferguson, Tim Robbins, and Common, who bring strong performances to this mysterious world. The story hooks viewers from the first episode with its mix of suspense and world-building.
Many viewers and critics consider Silo among Apple TV+’s best offerings. The show has been so successful that it’s already been renewed for seasons 3 and 4, even though only 2 seasons have been released so far.
What makes Silo special is its element of mystery. The show creates questions about the world and its rules that keep audiences guessing. This mystery aspect drives the show’s success even more than its science fiction elements.
Some fans on Reddit have ranked Silo alongside Severance and Ted Lasso as the top three shows on Apple TV+. This puts it in excellent company, as these shows represent some of the best streaming content available today.
The show is based on Hugh Howey’s trilogy of novels. This strong source material gives the show a solid foundation for its complex story and character development.
For fans of dystopian fiction, some viewers consider Silo the best series in the genre since Fallout. The show balances big ideas with personal stories that keep viewers invested.
The production values on Silo are top-notch. The underground setting feels real and lived-in, with attention to detail that helps sell the concept of humanity’s last refuge.
If you enjoy shows that make you think while delivering suspense and strong acting, Silo deserves a spot on your watchlist. It represents Apple TV+’s growing strength in producing quality original content.
6. Slow Horses
“Slow Horses” is one of Apple TV+’s best shows. The spy thriller follows a team of MI5 agents who have been sent to Slough House as punishment for career-ending mistakes.
The show stars Gary Oldman as Jackson Lamb, the gruff and unlikable yet brilliant leader of these outcasts. His performance brings depth to a character who seems cruel but truly cares about his team in his own twisted way.
Jack Lowden and Kristin Scott Thomas round out the main cast, each bringing their characters to life with skill. The acting throughout is top-notch, making even the most unlikable characters compelling to watch.
What makes this show stand out is its perfect blend of tension, dark humor, and surprising twists. The writing never talks down to viewers, respecting their intelligence while still being easy to follow.
Many fans consider it one of the best shows that not enough people are watching. Despite its quality, it hasn’t received the same buzz as other Apple TV+ hits, making it something of a hidden gem.
The production values are high, with a gritty London setting that feels real and lived-in. Unlike many spy shows, “Slow Horses” doesn’t glamorize espionage. It shows the boring, messy, and often dangerous reality of intelligence work.
Each season follows a different case while building on character relationships. This makes it easy to jump in but rewards loyal viewers with deeper character development over time.
Reddit users often recommend the show, praising its consistency across seasons. Many note that the quality hasn’t dropped as the series has continued, which is rare for television shows.
For those tired of spy thrillers that focus on perfect agents with unlimited resources, “Slow Horses” offers a refreshing change. These are flawed people making the best of bad situations, often with limited support and resources.
The show proves that Apple TV+ can deliver quality content that rivals any streaming service. For fans of smart, well-acted dramas with a dash of dry humor, “Slow Horses” should be at the top of their watchlist.
7. Foundation
Foundation is one of Apple TV+’s most ambitious sci-fi shows. Based on Isaac Asimov’s classic novels, it follows a group of exiles working to save humanity after predicting the fall of a galactic empire.
The show is visually stunning and thought-provoking, with impressive special effects and world-building. Its epic scale spans planets and centuries, making it perfect for viewers who enjoy complex sci-fi.
Critics have noted that Foundation takes significant creative liberties with Asimov’s work. The series is a very loose adaptation of the source material, which many considered “almost unfilmable” due to its abstract concepts and time jumps.
The show follows a band of exiles on their monumental journey to rebuild civilization. Key performances, particularly by Lee Pace as Brother Day and Jared Harris as Hari Seldon, bring depth to the complicated narrative.
Foundation’s first season received mixed reviews from both critics and fans of the books. Many praised its scope and ambition while others questioned its pacing and changes to the source material.
The second season showed moderate improvement according to viewers. The writers worked to balance the complex math-based plot predictions with more character-driven stories to keep audiences engaged.
One of the biggest challenges for the adaptation has been condensing Asimov’s expansive timeline into a watchable TV format. The show adds new characters and plot lines to help bridge these gaps.
For sci-fi fans seeking big ideas and gorgeous visuals, Foundation delivers. It tackles themes of science versus faith, destiny versus free will, and the cyclical nature of civilizations.
The show requires attention and patience. Unlike many streaming shows, Foundation doesn’t offer easy answers or simple plots. Its complex storylines reward viewers who stick with it through its elaborate setup.
8. Black Bird
Black Bird is a gripping drama series on Apple TV+ that earned four Emmy nominations in 2023. The show stars Taron Egerton, Ray Liotta, and Greg Kinnear in a story based on true events.
The plot follows Jimmy Keene, a former high school football star who finds himself sentenced to 10 years in prison. The FBI offers him an unusual deal: befriend a suspected serial killer in exchange for freedom.
This compelling psychological thriller showcases outstanding performances from Paul Walter Hauser and Taron Egerton. Their on-screen dynamic creates tension that keeps viewers on edge.
The miniseries was developed by Dennis Lehane, based on the 2010 autobiographical book “In with the Devil.” This connection to real events adds weight to the storytelling and makes it even more chilling.
Critics have praised Black Bird for its tight writing and exceptional acting. The show doesn’t rely on cheap thrills but builds suspense through character development and smart dialogue.
Ray Liotta delivers one of his final performances in the series, playing the father of Egerton’s character. His work here reminds viewers of his immense talent and screen presence.
The limited series format works well for this story. It gives enough time to build complex characters while maintaining a brisk pace that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.
Black Bird stands out among Apple TV+’s crime dramas because it focuses on psychology rather than action. The cat-and-mouse game between the two main characters explores dark themes with nuance and depth.
For fans of true crime who want something with substance, this show delivers. It avoids sensationalizing violence while still examining its effects on victims, perpetrators, and society.
9. For All Mankind
For All Mankind is one of Apple TV+’s most ambitious shows. This science fiction drama creates an alternate history where the space race never ended.
The show stars Joel Kinnaman and features an impressive ensemble cast that brings depth to this space-centered story. Set in a world where history took a different turn, the series explores how society might have evolved if space exploration remained a top priority.
Many critics consider it the best show on Apple TV+ that too few people watch. The storytelling spans decades, allowing viewers to follow characters through different eras of space exploration and technological advancement.
What makes this show special is its blend of historical events with fiction. The writers create a believable alternate timeline that feels both familiar and fresh. Each season jumps forward in time, showing how earlier decisions impact future events.
The visual effects deserve special mention. Space sequences look stunning and realistic, rivaling big-budget films. The attention to detail in spacecraft design and space physics adds credibility to every scene.
Character development drives the narrative forward. The show doesn’t just focus on missions and technology but on the personal lives and struggles of astronauts, engineers, and their families.
For All Mankind has earned praise for its thoughtful approach to social issues. By reimagining history, it explores how changes in space exploration might have affected civil rights, gender equality, and international relations.
Each season builds on the last, raising the stakes while maintaining the show’s core focus on human ingenuity and ambition. The writing strikes a perfect balance between technical accuracy and emotional impact.
Fans on platforms like Reddit often mention it alongside other Apple TV+ hits like Foundation, Silo, and Ted Lasso. But many argue For All Mankind deserves more attention than it gets.
The show creates a world that feels both nostalgic and forward-looking. It captures the excitement of space exploration while asking important questions about why we look to the stars.
10. Shining Girls
“Shining Girls” is a gripping thriller on Apple TV+ that blends psychological suspense with sci-fi elements. The show stars Elisabeth Moss as Kirby Mazrachi, a newspaper archivist at the Chicago Sun-Times during the 1990s.
After surviving a brutal attack, Kirby finds herself living in a constantly shifting reality. Her perception of the world changes unpredictably – sometimes her desk is in a different spot, sometimes she lives in a different apartment, and even her pet might transform from a cat to a dog without warning.
The story picks up when Kirby discovers a recent murder is linked to her own assault. She teams up with Dan Velazquez, a veteran reporter, to investigate the connections between these crimes.
What makes this show stand out is its mind-bending approach to storytelling. The narrative structure is intentionally disorienting, putting viewers in Kirby’s confused mental state.
Though some viewers might find it confusing at first, the show rewards patient watching. The puzzle pieces slowly come together as the season progresses.
The series is based on Lauren Beukes’ novel of the same name, but takes its own path in adapting the material. The show expertly balances its crime thriller aspects with supernatural elements.
Elisabeth Moss delivers a powerful performance that anchors the show. Her portrayal of trauma and resilience gives emotional weight to the complex storyline.
The series has been praised for its slow-paced psychological depth. It’s not a show that rushes to explanations but instead builds tension gradually through its eight episodes.
With strong acting, unique storytelling, and a captivating mystery at its core, “Shining Girls” offers something different from standard crime dramas. The show asks viewers to pay close attention, but it pays off with its twisty, thought-provoking plot.
Understanding Apple’s Streaming Platform
Apple TV+ has grown into a major streaming service with award-winning shows and unique features. The platform offers a different approach compared to competitors with its focus on quality over quantity.
Overview of Apple TV+
Apple TV+ launched in November 2019 as Apple’s entry into the streaming wars. Unlike Netflix or Hulu, it doesn’t include a back catalog of licensed content. Instead, it focuses exclusively on original shows and movies.
The service costs $9.99 per month with a seven-day free trial. New Apple device buyers often get three months free with their purchase.
According to current popularity rankings, Severance, Dope Thief, and Ted Lasso top the charts. The platform has fewer titles than competitors but emphasizes high production values.
Apple TV+ works on Apple devices, smart TVs, gaming consoles, and streaming devices. Users can download content for offline viewing and share subscriptions with up to five family members.
Unique Features of Apple’s Streaming Service
The Apple TV app serves as a content hub that goes beyond Apple’s original programming. It can aggregate viewing from other streaming services into one interface on Apple devices.
Key differentiators include:
- 4K HDR/Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos on supported titles
- No ads on any content
- Smaller but more curated library focusing on quality
- Integration with Apple’s ecosystem
Apple invests heavily in top talent both in front of and behind the camera. Shows like Severance, Silo, and Pachinko have received critical acclaim for their storytelling and production quality.
The platform has slowly built a reputation for thoughtful, well-crafted programming rather than churning out content. This approach has helped it win numerous awards despite having fewer titles than its competitors.
Analyzing Popular Genres on Apple
Apple TV+ offers a mix of genres that cater to different viewer preferences. The platform has gained recognition for both its intense dramas and lighthearted comedies that appeal to a wide audience.
Drama and Suspense
Apple TV+ has built a strong reputation with its drama and suspense shows. Severance stands out as one of the platform’s most thought-provoking series, exploring the concept of work-life separation through a sci-fi lens.
The spy thriller genre is well-represented with British espionage shows that have earned critical acclaim. These shows combine intense storytelling with complex characters that keep viewers engaged.
Silo has become a fan favorite with its post-apocalyptic mystery set in an underground community. The show’s slow-burning suspense and world-building have drawn in many subscribers.
Black Bird offers a gripping true crime narrative that showcases Apple’s investment in quality dramatic storytelling. The limited series format allows for deep character development within a contained story.
Comedy and Lighthearted Series
Ted Lasso remains Apple TV+’s breakout comedy hit. This fish-out-of-water story about an American football coach leading a British soccer team balances humor with heartfelt moments.
Beyond Ted Lasso, Apple has expanded its comedy lineup with shows like Mythic Quest, which takes viewers into the world of video game development with sharp writing and memorable characters.
Shrinking and Platonic represent the platform’s newer comedy offerings. These shows tackle serious topics like grief and friendship through a humorous lens while maintaining emotional depth.
The comedy lineup features diverse formats, from workplace comedies to relationship-focused shows. Each brings a unique perspective while maintaining the high production quality Apple TV+ is known for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apple TV+ offers a diverse collection of original shows spanning multiple genres with varying levels of critical acclaim and popularity. Many shows have won prestigious awards and gained loyal fan followings since the service launched.
Which Apple TV+ original series has received the highest critical acclaim?
Severance has earned exceptional critical acclaim for its unique premise and stellar execution. The show blends sci-fi and workplace drama in a fresh way.
Critics praise its smart writing, striking visual style, and standout performances from Adam Scott, John Turturro, and Patricia Arquette.
What are the most popular Apple TV+ shows currently?
Dope Thief ranks among the most popular shows on the platform right now. It joins mainstays like Ted Lasso and Mythic Quest in the top tier of Apple TV+ content.
Silo has also gained significant viewership with its post-apocalyptic storyline and compelling mystery elements.
How do Apple TV+ exclusives compare to other streaming services’ originals?
Apple TV+ shows tend to have higher production values and more star power than many competing services. The platform focuses on quality over quantity.
While Netflix and other services release hundreds of originals yearly, Apple produces fewer shows but maintains consistent quality standards across its library.
What are the latest award-winning shows available on Apple TV+?
Ted Lasso has won multiple Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series. The show’s heartwarming approach to sports comedy resonated with both audiences and award voters.
Severance received numerous nominations and wins for its groundbreaking storytelling and visual style.
What genres does Apple TV+ offer in its top-rated series lineup?
Apple TV+ covers an impressive range of genres in its top shows. Comedy fans enjoy Ted Lasso and Mythic Quest, while sci-fi enthusiasts gravitate toward Severance and Silo.
The service also offers dramas, thrillers, and even musical comedies like [Schmigadoon!](https://www.reddit.com/r/televisionsuggestions/comments/1hnhkq7/whats_good_on_apple_tv/Sure, please provide the text you would like me to edit.
How frequently does Apple TV+ update its library with new and original content?
Apple TV+ adds new original content monthly. At least one major series or season premiere is released each month. The platform maintains a steady release schedule.
Unlike services that drop entire seasons at once, Apple often releases episodes weekly. This is to build audience engagement over time.
Users can’t currently rate shows directly within the Apple TV+ platform. However, the service uses viewing data to determine which shows receive renewals.
