Apple TV+ Shows Of 2020: 7 Standout Series Reviewed, Explained
Discover the standout Apple TV+ series from 2020 that captured audiences with innovative storytelling and stellar casts.
Apple TV+ burst onto the streaming scene in late 2019, but it was in 2020 that its original programming truly took off. With a focus on high-quality, cinematic productions, the platform quickly built a loyal fanbase. This article dives deep into the standout series from that pivotal year, highlighting what made them resonate with viewers worldwide. We’ll examine genres, key plot elements, critical reception, and lasting impact, all while providing insights into why these shows remain worth watching today.
The Rise of Apple TV+ in a Streaming World
In 2020, amid a surge in home entertainment due to global events, Apple TV+ carved out a niche with its premium slate. Unlike competitors relying on vast libraries of licensed content, Apple emphasized exclusive originals backed by substantial budgets. Series from this era showcased collaborations with top talent, from Hollywood A-listers to visionary creators. Viewership data from streaming analytics firms indicated rapid growth, with many titles climbing charts within weeks of release.
The platform’s strategy paid off, as evidenced by reports from industry trackers like Nielsen, which noted Apple TV+’s disproportionate share of buzz relative to its subscriber base. This foundation set the stage for the hits that followed, blending prestige TV vibes with accessible narratives.
Standout Dramas That Gripped Audiences
Drama dominated Apple TV+’s 2020 lineup, offering emotionally charged stories that tackled complex human experiences. These shows elevated the bar for serialized storytelling on streaming.
- See: A post-apocalyptic tale where humanity has lost sight, forcing reliance on other senses. Jason Momoa’s portrayal of a tribal leader navigating tribal wars and forbidden visions captivated viewers with its visceral action and world-building.
- The Morning Show: This timely series dissected network news scandals, starring Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon as anchors in crisis. Its exploration of power dynamics and #MeToo themes sparked real-world conversations.
- Defending Jacob: Chris Evans leads as a prosecutor whose son faces murder charges. The family thriller delved into parental love, doubt, and justice, keeping audiences guessing through tense courtroom scenes.
These dramas averaged high completion rates, per Parrot Analytics demand metrics, underscoring their binge-worthy appeal.
Comedies That Balanced Humor and Heart
Apple TV+ didn’t neglect laughs in 2020, delivering comedies that mixed wit with poignant moments.
- Ted Lasso: Jason Sudeikis as an American coaching a British soccer team became a cultural phenomenon. Its optimistic take on leadership and vulnerability won over skeptics, earning widespread acclaim for uplifting messages.
- My Glory Was I Had Such Friends: A lesser-known gem focusing on female friendships amid life’s trials, praised for authentic dialogue and relatable characters.
Ted Lasso, in particular, topped global watch lists, with its feel-good ethos providing much-needed levity that year.
Sci-Fi and Genre-Bending Innovations
Sci-fi offerings pushed creative boundaries, attracting genre fans with ambitious scopes.
- For All Mankind: An alternate history where the space race never ended. Ronald D. Moore’s series mixed historical figures with fictional drama, exploring lunar bases and geopolitical tensions.
- Foundation: Though fully ramping up later, its 2020 buzz from trailers hinted at epic adaptations of Asimov’s classics, promising vast interstellar narratives.
These shows leveraged Apple’s visual effects prowess, rivaling big-screen spectacles and drawing comparisons to prestige cable like HBO.
Why 2020’s Lineup Endures
Looking back, 2020’s Apple TV+ shows succeeded through stellar casting, bold premises, and production values unseen on streaming peers. Critical scores on Rotten Tomatoes often exceeded 90%, while Emmy nods validated their quality. Viewer retention was stellar, with many seasons seeing renewals due to passionate engagement on social platforms.
| Show | Genre | Lead Actor | Avg. Episode Runtime | Seasons in 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| See | Drama/Sci-Fi | Jason Momoa | 60 min | 1 |
| Ted Lasso | Comedy | Jason Sudeikis | 30 min | 1 |
| The Morning Show | Drama | Jennifer Aniston | 60 min | 1 |
| For All Mankind | Sci-Fi | Joel Kinnaman | 60 min | 2 |
| Defending Jacob | Thriller | Chris Evans | 45 min | 1 (Limited) |
This table summarizes key stats, illustrating the diversity in formats and tones.
Critical Acclaim and Awards Buzz
2020 series racked up accolades. Ted Lasso swept comedies at major awards, while The Morning Show dominated drama categories. For All Mankind impressed with technical achievements, including VFX nods. According to official Emmy records, Apple TV+ secured multiple nominations, signaling its arrival as a serious player.
Viewer Metrics and Streaming Trends
Parrot Analytics reported Ted Lasso peaking at over 20x expected demand, far outpacing averages. See and For All Mankind also trended globally, with spikes in international markets. These metrics highlight how Apple’s global marketing amplified reach.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights
Creators like Alon Zoan for See brought immersive worlds to life through practical effects. Ted Lasso’s writers drew from real soccer culture for authenticity. Such dedication translated to rave reviews and word-of-mouth success.
Comparing to Other Platforms
Against Netflix’s volume or HBO Max’s IP-heavy slate, Apple TV+ stood out for consistency. No filler episodes marred its 2020 output, fostering trust in every release.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the most watched Apple TV+ show in 2020?
Ted Lasso emerged as the breakout hit, blending humor and heart to top charts.
Are these shows still available on Apple TV+?
Yes, all major 2020 titles remain streaming, with many continuing new seasons.
Is Apple TV+ worth subscribing for these series?
Absolutely, especially for fans of premium originals with short, focused seasons.
How does 2020 compare to later Apple TV+ years?
2020 laid the groundwork; subsequent years built on it with even bigger hits.
Can I watch these without spoilers?
Trailers and episode guides on Apple TV+ app provide spoiler-free intros.
Final Thoughts: Legacy of 2020 Excellence
The top Apple TV+ shows of 2020 not only entertained but redefined streaming ambitions. From Momoa’s warrior in See to Sudeikis’ infectious positivity, they offered escapism and reflection. As the platform evolves, these series remind us of its bold beginnings. Stream them today to experience the magic firsthand.
References
- TV Series Finale Ratings — Nielsen. 2021-01-15. https://www.nielsen.com/insights/
- Parrot Analytics Demand Data — Parrot Analytics (official reports). 2020-12-31. https://www.parrotanalytics.com/
- Emmy Awards Official Nominations — Television Academy (.org). 2021-07-13. https://www.emmys.com/
- Apple TV+ Press Releases — Apple Inc. (official). 2020-11-20. https://www.apple.com/tv-pr/
- Rotten Tomatoes Series Rankings — Fandango Media. 2020-12-28. https://editorial.rottentomatoes.com/
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