Vince Gilligan's new sci-fi series Pluribus has quickly become a major success on Apple TV+, topping charts in the US and earning a perfect 100% Rotten Tomatoes score. The show reunites Gilligan with Better Call Saul star Rhea Seehorn in an enigmatic narrative that premiered with two episodes. Apple TV+ has already renewed it for a second season.
Premiere and Reception
Pluribus, created by Breaking Bad's Vince Gilligan, premiered on Apple TV+ with its first two episodes following a mysterious marketing campaign. The series marks Gilligan's return to television three years after the conclusion of Better Call Saul, shifting from crime drama to sci-fi. Starring Rhea Seehorn in the lead role, the show has been praised for its fresh take on genre tropes and Seehorn's performance.
Critics have embraced Pluribus, awarding it a 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes based on early reviews. This acclaim has translated to strong viewership, with FlixPatrol data showing it as the No. 1 TV series in the United States, surpassing The Morning Show. Worldwide, it ranks No. 2 on Apple TV+, behind only The Last Frontier.
Streaming Success and Future
Apple TV+, known for hits like Severance, Ted Lasso, and Slow Horses, appears to have another flagship series on its hands. The platform announced a Season 2 renewal on the premiere day, signaling confidence in the show's longevity. Gilligan's track record with Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul drew initial viewers, but Pluribus stands apart in its sci-fi focus.
While early numbers are promising, the series' success will depend on sustained audience engagement as the season progresses. Apple's track record with genre shows suggests Pluribus could build a dedicated fanbase, proving Gilligan's versatility beyond the Breaking Bad universe.