For months, the cast of Foundation remained uncertain about whether Apple TV+ would continue the sci-fi epic. Lou Llobell, who plays Gaal Dornick, admitted, “I wish I had more news for you.” Tomas Lemarquis, portraying Magnifico Giganticus, echoed the sentiment with a blunt, “No,” when asked if he had heard anything about season 4 .
This silence stretched right up to the final moments of season 3. Apple announced the renewal on September 11, 2025—just hours before the finale aired.
Conflicting Reports and Rising Costs
The uncertainty followed conflicting signals earlier in the year. A February 2025 leak suggested season 4 had been greenlit with a new showrunner, sparking hope among fans. Yet Apple’s streaming division remained tight-lipped until the last minute.
Part of the hesitation may come down to cost. Foundation ranks among Apple TV+’s most expensive projects, with sweeping visuals, location shoots, and a massive cast. Decisions about its future weigh not only on creative vision but also on budgetary limits .
Apple’s Uneven Renewal Strategy
Unlike other prestige hits like Severance and Ted Lasso, which secured multi-season orders, Foundation has faced a slower, more uncertain renewal process. Season 2’s renewal came nearly three months after its finale, and the same last-minute strategy played out for season 4 .
The show itself has seen mixed reviews. While many praise its stunning visuals, critics often point to slow pacing and heavy exposition. However, loyal viewers argue season 3 delivered stronger storytelling, possibly saving it from cancellation.
What’s at Stake
Based on Isaac Asimov’s iconic novels, Foundation was originally pitched as an eight-season arc by showrunner David S. Goyer. Canceling early would mark it as yet another ambitious adaptation cut short.
For Apple, keeping Foundation alive is more than just about one series. It represents the company’s commitment to delivering large-scale, cerebral science fiction to compete with genre-defining shows like The Expanse and Game of Thrones.
The renewal offers relief for now, but whether Apple will invest in the full vision remains an open question.
