Apple TV+ has built a reputation as a powerhouse for sci-fi storytelling, with hits like Severance, Silo, and the upcoming Pluribus from Vince Gilligan. But it all started with one show that launched alongside the streaming service in 2019 and continues to captivate audiences today. That show is For All Mankind, and it has just crossed a remarkable streaming milestone: over 500 days on Apple TV+'s top 10 most-watched list, according to FlixPatrol.
The alternate-history drama, which imagines a world where the Space Race never ended, has become the streamer's longest-running original series alongside Slow Horses. Its fifth season is currently airing, and the show is set to conclude with a sixth and final season in 2027. But before that, the universe expands with a spin-off, Star City, debuting on May 29.
A Sci-Fi Legacy That Started It All
Created by Ronald D. Moore, For All Mankind takes viewers on a decades-spanning journey through an alternate timeline where the Soviet Union beat the U.S. to the moon, sparking a relentless competition that reshapes history. The first season was set in the 1970s, and each subsequent season jumps forward in time, exploring new eras of space exploration and geopolitical tension. The series has earned critical acclaim, holding a 91% score on Rotten Tomatoes, with seasons two and four achieving perfect 100% ratings. The fifth season currently sits at a Certified Fresh 90%.
The Rotten Tomatoes consensus calls it "one of television's most compelling sci-fi sagas," praising its "smart storytelling, high ambition, and enough tension to keep viewers glued to their screen." That enduring appeal is reflected in its streaming longevity, as it remains a top draw for subscribers even as newer shows like Apple TV+ Mystery Thriller 'Widow's Bay' Becomes Sleeper Hit of May 2026 and Ryan Murphy's 'Love Story' Finds New Life on Apple TV Streaming compete for attention.
What's Next for the Franchise
With Star City set to premiere in just a few weeks, the For All Mankind universe is poised to grow even larger. The spin-off will explore the Soviet side of the space race, offering a fresh perspective on the alternate history that fans have come to love. Meanwhile, the main series continues to build toward its grand finale, promising more high-stakes drama and emotional depth.
For those who haven't yet dived into this acclaimed series, now is the perfect time to catch up. All five seasons are streaming on Apple TV+, and with the spin-off on the horizon, there's no better moment to join the journey. As Apple TV+ continues to invest in sci-fi, For All Mankind remains a cornerstone of its lineup—a testament to the power of ambitious, character-driven storytelling.
Stay tuned for more updates on For All Mankind and its expanding universe, and don't miss Star City when it launches later this month.
