Apple TV+ has been steadily expanding its comedy lineup, and its latest acquisition is already making waves. The streaming service has confirmed that Small Prophets, a British fantasy comedy, will return for a second season even before its first episode hits the platform. The show is set to premiere on October 7, but Apple TV is so confident in its appeal that they've fast-tracked a renewal.
The series has been a sensation in the UK, where it originally aired on the BBC. It drew an impressive 9.2 million viewers, and critical reception has been stellar—boasting a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes, with audiences giving it a 94% approval rating. This early buzz convinced Apple TV to pick up the show for global distribution (excluding the UK) and lock in a second season ahead of the debut.
Set in and around Manchester, Small Prophets follows Michael Sleep, played by Pearce Quigley, a man whose life has been on hold since his beloved Clea vanished seven years ago. He works at a DIY store, visits his father Brian (Michael Palin), and clings to hope. When Brian shares an old recipe involving rainwater, horse manure, and a bit of alchemy to create homunculi—magical creatures that can foresee the future—Michael sees a chance to learn if he'll ever see Clea again.
Despite his doubts, Michael teams up with his young coworker Kacey (Lauren Patel), and their unlikely friendship blossoms as they bond over their shared disdain for their manager, Gordon, played by series creator Mackenzie Crook. Meanwhile, Michael's neighbors, Bev (Sophie Wilan) and Clive (Jon Pointing), grow curious about the strange happenings in his shed.
The six-episode first season promises the kind of warm, quirky storytelling that has made Apple TV+ hits like Ted Lasso and Shrinking so beloved. It's a formula that clearly resonates with audiences, and the early renewal signals Apple's commitment to delivering feel-good content.
For fans of fantasy with a comedic twist, Small Prophets is shaping up to be a must-watch. If you're looking for more magical adventures, check out our list of fantasy films that are worth an instant replay. And if you're a fan of Apple TV+'s other genre offerings, you might also enjoy Severance, which continues to dominate streaming.
With its early renewal, Small Prophets is already being compared to the streamer's biggest successes. The show's blend of humor, heart, and a touch of the supernatural seems poised to capture a global audience. Mark your calendars for October 7, and stay tuned for more updates on this promising series.
