Apple TV+ is turning back to prestige television with Vince Gilligan’s new series, Pluribus, debuting November 7, 2025. Known for Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, Gilligan returns with a thought-provoking story that blends science fiction, philosophy, and mystery.
Set in a world where everyone becomes perfectly happy after a mysterious signal from space, Pluribus follows Carol, a writer played by Rhea Seehorn, who becomes the only person unable to share that happiness. Her resistance to perfection raises questions about free will and what it means to be human.
A Story of Utopia and Unease
Early reviews describe the show as both philosophical and cinematic, highlighting its exploration of life without conflict. Instead of a traditional dystopia, Gilligan’s story examines the quiet discomfort of a perfect world.
“The idea of total happiness sounds ideal,” Gilligan said in an interview, “but it takes away the friction that makes us alive.” This theme resonates in Pluribus, which challenges the notion of peace as progress.
Apple reportedly committed to two seasons before the premiere, a rare move in today’s budget-conscious streaming landscape. The production was filmed in Albuquerque, New Mexico, with full-scale sets and an authentic suburban environment built from real materials.
The Team Behind the Series
Gilligan wrote Pluribus specifically for Rhea Seehorn, reuniting after their success on Better Call Saul. To ensure the new series stands apart, Gilligan avoided filming at familiar Breaking Bad locations, giving Pluribus a distinct look and tone.
Behind the scenes, Dr. Sumbul Desai and Eddy Cue are leading Apple’s creative push toward ambitious projects. The company continues to invest in auteur-driven storytelling, even as other studios cut back on big-budget risks.
Apple’s Renewed Creative Confidence
Pluribus isn’t just another sci-fi drama—it’s a statement about Apple TV+’s direction. The platform is reaffirming its identity as a home for bold, character-driven storytelling.
By backing Gilligan’s introspective take on utopia, Apple demonstrates that creativity still matters more than volume. Whether viewers embrace a story about the dangers of perfect happiness remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Apple TV+ is ready to reclaim its place at the heart of prestige television.
