In a world overflowing with streaming options, where new titles drop daily and the sheer volume can feel more like a chore than a joy, finding genuine gems can be a daunting task. We’ve all been there, endlessly scrolling, only to settle for something mediocre out of sheer decision fatigue. But what if there was a corner of the streaming universe dedicated to curation, quality, and genuinely groundbreaking storytelling?
Enter Apple TV+. While perhaps not boasting the sprawling libraries of its competitors, Apple’s platform has quietly, yet decisively, carved out a reputation for premium content. They invest heavily in shows that aren’t just good, but often exceptional, pushing boundaries in narrative, production, and performance. And as we find ourselves in November 2025, navigating the rich tapestry of what’s available, the trusted experts at WIRED have once again weighed in, offering their definitive list of the 39 best shows currently gracing the platform.
This isn’t just another arbitrary list. This is a meticulously selected roster, a testament to Apple’s commitment to quality, and a beacon for anyone looking to spend their precious viewing hours wisely. So, grab your remote – we’re diving deep into the very best that Apple TV+ has to offer this month, guided by WIRED’s discerning eye.
The Apple TV+ Philosophy: A Haven for High-Caliber Storytelling
What sets Apple TV+ apart in the crowded streaming landscape? It’s a question many ask, and the answer often boils down to a distinct philosophy: quality over quantity. While other platforms might chase subscriber numbers with an endless stream of content, Apple has consistently focused on prestige, cinematic scope, and narratives that resonate long after the credits roll.
This isn’t accidental. From the outset, Apple poured resources into attracting top-tier talent, both in front of and behind the camera. The result? A catalog brimming with shows that feel like events, each carefully crafted, meticulously produced, and often tackling complex, thought-provoking themes. You won’t find endless filler here; instead, every series feels like a considered investment, designed to captivate and challenge its audience.
It’s this very approach that makes WIRED’s annual picks so valuable. They’re not just sifting through thousands of titles; they’re assessing a curated collection of premium content, looking for the absolute standouts. Their choices reflect not only critical acclaim but also cultural impact and the kind of innovative storytelling that truly pushes the medium forward. In November 2025, that dedication to excellence continues to pay dividends for viewers.
Navigating the Ranks: WIRED’s Top Picks for November 2025
Among the 39 exceptional titles highlighted by WIRED this month, a few perennial favorites and intriguing new entries stand out, each offering a unique reason to subscribe or simply catch up. These are the shows that exemplify Apple TV+’s commitment to diverse, engaging, and often addictive storytelling.
Gripping Dramas That Demand Your Attention
At the heart of Apple TV+’s appeal are its powerhouse dramas, often led by star-studded casts and tackling incredibly relevant societal issues. WIRED’s list certainly reinforces this strength.
Take The Morning Show, for instance. Even into late 2025, its biting satire and unflinching look at the cutthroat world of broadcast journalism, corporate power plays, and the #MeToo movement continues to resonate with startling accuracy. Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon deliver career-defining performances, leading an ensemble that navigates scandal, ambition, and the ever-shifting landscape of public perception. It’s a show that sparks conversation, forces introspection, and remains incredibly compelling, season after season.
Then there’s Pluribus, a relative newcomer that has swiftly climbed the ranks to become one of WIRED’s top picks. This ambitious sci-fi drama plunges us into a near-future where advanced AI, known as “Pluribus,” has achieved true consciousness, integrating itself into every facet of global infrastructure. The series masterfully explores the philosophical and ethical dilemmas that arise when humanity’s creations transcend their programmed boundaries. With stunning visuals, complex characters grappling with the implications of co-existence, and a plot that keeps you guessing, Pluribus is more than just entertainment; it’s a prescient look at the very definition of intelligence and existence. Its nuanced exploration of identity, freedom, and control makes it a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of technology and humanity.
Thrillers and Spies: The Edge-of-Your-Seat Binge
For those who crave suspense, intrigue, and a healthy dose of espionage, Apple TV+ has proven to be an unexpected haven. WIRED’s list enthusiastically endorses this genre, with one particular series stealing the spotlight.
Slow Horses continues to be an absolute triumph, and its inclusion among the best shows on Apple TV in November 2025 is a no-brainer. This refreshingly cynical take on the spy thriller genre follows a band of disgraced MI5 agents, banished to Slough House – a purgatory for service cast-offs. Led by the brilliantly disheveled and perpetually unimpressed Jackson Lamb (a magnificent Gary Oldman), these misfits somehow stumble upon and solve genuine threats, often despite themselves. It’s gritty, darkly comedic, and deeply character-driven, proving that you don’t need sleek gadgets and flawless heroes to craft an utterly compelling espionage narrative. The sheer wit, the intricate plotting, and the stellar performances make it an addictive binge, perfect for a cold November evening.
What makes these thrillers particularly potent is their ability to blend high-stakes action with genuine character development. You root for these flawed individuals, you’re invested in their personal struggles as much as the global threats they face, making the tension all the more palpable.
Beyond the Blockbusters: Hidden Gems and Genre-Benders
While the big-budget dramas and acclaimed thrillers often grab headlines, WIRED’s comprehensive list ensures that the broader, more eclectic range of Apple TV+ content isn’t overlooked. The service boasts an impressive array of comedies, speculative fiction, historical dramas, and even innovative documentaries that push the boundaries of their respective genres.
You’ll find everything from the heartwarming optimism of Ted Lasso (whose enduring charm still holds a place, even after its initial run) to the mind-bending corporate mystery of Severance, which continues to prompt fervent discussion years after its debut. Then there’s the ambitious alternate history of For All Mankind, still charting humanity’s enduring journey into space. These shows, among others on WIRED’s list, demonstrate Apple’s willingness to take creative risks, investing in concepts that might not fit traditional molds but consistently deliver exceptional storytelling.
This diversity is a huge part of Apple TV+’s appeal. It means that whether you’re in the mood for a laugh, a cry, a historical epic, or a glimpse into a terrifyingly plausible future, there’s something genuinely high-quality waiting for you. The 39 shows selected by WIRED truly represent this rich tapestry.
Why These Picks Matter Now
As we close out 2025, the significance of a well-curated list of the best shows on Apple TV extends beyond mere recommendations. In an age of algorithm-driven suggestions and an endless stream of content, expert guidance from a source like WIRED is invaluable. These are not just popular shows; they are critically acclaimed, culturally relevant, and often conversation-starting pieces of media that continue to hold their own even as new content emerges.
Many of these titles, like The Morning Show and Slow Horses, have demonstrated remarkable longevity and an ability to evolve with their audiences, proving that great storytelling transcends seasonal trends. Others, like the compelling Pluribus, speak directly to the pressing technological and societal questions of our time, making them particularly resonant in November 2025.
Ultimately, this list serves as a compass, pointing viewers towards the pinnacle of streaming entertainment. It’s a testament to Apple TV+’s unwavering dedication to quality and a celebration of the narratives that truly captivate, challenge, and connect us.
So, whether you’re a long-time subscriber or considering diving into the Apple TV+ ecosystem for the first time, WIRED’s 39 best shows offer a fantastic starting point. It’s a reminder that amidst the noise, there’s always exceptional storytelling to be found if you know where to look. Take the plunge – your next favorite series is undoubtedly waiting on this very list.
