Apple TV has been making waves with a string of critically adored originals, from the sci-fi mystery Silo to the action-comedy Mayday and the ever-popular Ted Lasso. While the streamer may not always match Netflix or Prime Video in raw numbers, it's consistently punching above its weight in reviews. Shows like Severance and Pluribus even made history by charting simultaneously last year, and the horror-comedy Widow's Bay has become a breakout hit. Yet amid all this acclaim, one series has quietly become the most reliable and beloved title in Apple TV's entire library.
That show is Slow Horses, the spy thriller that has become a phenomenon since its 2022 debut. The series recently returned for a sixth season, and it's already making headlines for its flawless critical reception. The new season, which premiered on September 16 and wraps up on October 21, scored a perfect 100% on Rotten Tomatoes—an extraordinary feat for any show, let alone one this deep into its run.
The road to Season 6 wasn't without its bumps. Fans were worried when creator Will Smith announced he was stepping away, citing the grueling pace of producing two seasons back-to-back. In a social media post, Smith explained that maintaining such a high level of quality under tight deadlines was no longer sustainable. But the show has clearly thrived under its new leadership, with star Gary Oldman remaining fully committed to the project—he's essentially devoted the last five years to it.
Oldman leads a stellar cast that includes Jack Lowden, a frequent contender for the next James Bond, and Olivia Cooke, known for her role in House of the Dragon. Their performances have helped Slow Horses earn a remarkable 98% overall score on Rotten Tomatoes, making it the best-reviewed series on Apple TV. Collider's own Carly Lane called Season 6 the show's most unpredictable yet, and the praise doesn't stop there.
The audience has clearly agreed. According to FlixPatrol, Slow Horses has now spent more than 650 consecutive days on Apple TV's domestic viewership chart—a streak that shows no signs of slowing down. The show's staying power is a testament to its blend of sharp writing, tense espionage, and darkly comic characters.
Apple TV is clearly betting big on the franchise, having already renewed it for a seventh season. That's a rare vote of confidence, even for a streamer known for giving its hits room to breathe. With such a dedicated fanbase and critical darling status, Slow Horses has become the crown jewel of Apple TV's original programming.
For those who haven't caught up yet, now is the perfect time to dive in. The show's unique take on the spy genre—focusing on the misfits of MI5's Slough House—has earned comparisons to the best of John le Carré, but with a modern, irreverent twist. And if you're already a fan, the wait for Season 7 will be well worth it.
Stay tuned to Collider for more updates on Slow Horses and all your favorite streaming shows.
