Discover the 7 Most Underrated Sci-Fi Shows on Apple TV

Apple TV has established itself as a prominent platform for original programming, particularly in the science fiction genre. While it is home to critically acclaimed series like Severance and Foundation, several underrated gems deserve more attention. These shows, although overshadowed by their more popular counterparts, offer unique storytelling and production quality that engage audiences.

1. Invasion

Created by Simon Kinberg and David Weil, Invasion has divided viewers since its debut in 2021. Critics often described it as slow-paced, but fans appreciate its contemplative narrative. The series focuses on the emotional responses of ordinary people during an alien invasion, exploring their confusion and survival instincts rather than relying on explosive action. Over three seasons, it has developed a loyal audience that values its cerebral approach to storytelling.

2. Hello Tomorrow!

A recent addition to Apple TV’s lineup, Hello Tomorrow! aired in 2023 and stands out for its retro-futuristic aesthetic. Created by Amit Bhalla and Lucas Jansen, the miniseries blends drama and satire, following charismatic salesman Jack Billings, played by Billy Crudup, as he sells timeshares on the Moon. The show’s unique combination of humor and character-driven narrative deserves more recognition, as it offers a visually stunning backdrop to personal struggles and secrets.

3. WondLa

Based on the novels by Tony DiTerlizzi, WondLa is an animated series that captivates both children and adults. The show chronicles the adventures of Eva Nine, a human girl raised by a robot in an underground world. Despite its initial perception as children’s content, WondLa features strong world-building and emotional themes that resonate with viewers of all ages. The series concluded after three seasons, showcasing Eva’s coming-of-age journey as she explores a vibrant, alien-filled Earth.

4. Murderbot

Adapted from Martha Wells‘ book series, Murderbot presents a security android with a penchant for watching television over executing its duties. The show blends humor and poignant themes of autonomy and connection. While it garnered praise from fans of the books, its reach among general audiences has been limited. Lead actor Alexander Skarsgård delivers a compelling performance, making the series’s exploration of identity and agency memorable and entertaining.

5. Dark Matter

Despite its strong literary foundation, Dark Matter struggled to gain traction after its release. Led by Joel Edgerton, the series explores classic science fiction themes through the lens of personal choices and relationships. Following physicist Jason Dessen as he navigates alternate realities, the show combines suspense with emotional depth. Although it faced initial skepticism, its well-executed concepts and character development make it a noteworthy entry in the sci-fi genre.

6. See

Created by Steven Knight, See depicts a post-apocalyptic world where humanity has lost the ability to see. Initially met with mixed reviews, the series has since proven to be innovative and thoughtful. As the story unfolds, Baba Voss, a leader of a mountain tribe, must protect twins born with sight, challenging the primitive societies around them. With each season, the show has enhanced its narrative complexity and production quality, solidifying its place in Apple TV’s repertoire.

7. For All Mankind

As the first series launched on Apple TV, For All Mankind offers a compelling alternate history narrative where the Soviet Union lands on the Moon first. Created by Ronald D. Moore, the series explores the implications of this shift on NASA and the broader space race. Each season builds upon the last, weaving together personal stories with significant historical events. Despite its acclaim, it has yet to reach the audience size it deserves, making it one of the most consistently underappreciated series in Apple TV’s lineup.

These seven shows exemplify the diverse and high-quality content available on Apple TV, encouraging viewers to explore beyond the mainstream hits. Each of these underrated series brings a unique perspective to the sci-fi genre, inviting audiences to engage with themes of humanity, identity, and resilience.