Pluribus Overtakes Severance as Apple TV’s Top Streaming Hit
Pluribus has skyrocketed to become Apple TV’s most-watched series, with lead actress Rhea Seehorn attributing its massive appeal to sharp writing and the way it sparks conversation among viewers.
Pluribus has officially claimed the title of the most-watched series in Apple TV ’s history. Rhea Seehorn, who stars as Carol in this sci-fi sensation, recently shared her thoughts on why the show has resonated so deeply with audiences. When asked if she anticipated the show’s runaway success, Seehorn responded,
“Did I expect it? No, I wouldn’t dare to.”
She credits the show’s creator, Vince Gilligan, for crafting stories that respect the intelligence of viewers.
“I do think there are a lot of very smart shows, and I also give credit to [creator] Vince Gilligan and his particular audiences – starting with Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, now Pluribus – [where] he very much assumes the intelligence of his audience, which I think people feel rewarded by.”
Smart Storytelling and Audience Engagement
Seehorn believes that what sets Pluribus apart is its refusal to spoon-feed viewers. Instead of dictating emotions or interpretations, the series invites people to draw their own conclusions.
“It’s not passive television and, also, you’re not being spoon-fed: here’s exactly what to think about this, here’s a song to tell you when it’s sad. How about being open to interpretation? How about it inspiring conversation rather than preaching one particular thing? I think people have felt rewarded by that.”
This approach has sparked lively discussions and debates, with fans and critics alike exploring the show’s deeper meanings. The series has been interpreted as a metaphor for everything from artificial intelligence and ChatGPT to the sense of isolation that’s lingered in a post-pandemic world. Existential questions are front and center, giving viewers plenty to chew on.
Capturing the Spirit of the Times
Seehorn also points out that Pluribus taps into the current cultural moment, which may explain its widespread appeal.
“I didn’t see it coming, but it makes sense to me that it would strike a particular chord – maybe a lot of us really did want to have some of these big, philosophical questions and weren’t sure where to funnel it,”
she says. The show’s ability to reflect and engage with contemporary anxieties has made it a touchstone for viewers seeking more than just entertainment.
With its thought-provoking themes and refusal to offer easy answers, Pluribus has become a phenomenon. The series is now available to stream, and fans are already diving into guides for the upcoming second season and dissecting the twists and turns of the first season’s finale.