Apple TV builds its reputation with new AFI honors Apfelpatient

Apple TV has become a fixture in the international television landscape. Repeated recognition from the American Film Institute demonstrates the high regard in which the service's productions are held. Three Apple TV series were selected for the 2025 AFI Awards: Pluribus, Severance, and The Studio. This selection is seen as a clear indication of the standing Apple TV has achieved within the industry.

Each year, the AFI awards ten films and ten series deemed particularly relevant to the cultural and artistic landscape of that year. Since the launch of Apple TV in November 2019, productions from the streaming service have almost consistently been among the honorees. Only in the first year after the launch did no awards go to Apple TV. The AFI Awards do not exclude individual achievements but rather focus on the entire creative team. This principle has shaped the awards ceremony for more than 25 years.

AFI honors three Apple TV series

For 2025, the AFI has included three Apple TV titles in its list: Pluribus, Severance, and The Studio. All three exemplify the streaming service's focus on high-quality, original series. AFI President Bob Gazzale emphasized in a statement that the awards are intended to foster a community without competition. The selected teams have demonstrated how art can have an impact even in challenging times.

The official ceremony will take place on January 9, 2026. The selection was made by a jury that included director Thomas Schlamme, known for The West Wing and Sports Night. Actress Lily Gladstone, who appeared in Apple's Killers of the Flower Moon, was also on the jury.

A look back at Apple's past successes

Apple TV has received numerous awards in recent years. In the film category, winners include CODA and The Tragedy of Macbeth from 2021. The Apple film Killers of the Flower Moon also received an AFI Award in 2023.

In the television category, Ted Lasso and Severance are among the most successful titles, each having received two awards. Other series such as The Morning Show, Pachinko, Schmigadoon!, and Shrinking have also been recognized in various years. For 2025, Severance and Pluribus are also nominated for Golden Globes. This further increases the visibility of these two shows and demonstrates their widespread recognition beyond the AFI awards.

The significance for Apple TV

The repeated awards underscore Apple TV's unwavering commitment to quality. The platform has quickly established itself as a provider of high-quality series with a distinctive style. Its annual presence at the AFI Awards demonstrates that its productions not only resonate with audiences but also impress expert juries.

A trend that has been developing since 2019 is becoming apparent: Apple TV is investing in strong content, working with renowned creatives, and emphasizing clear narrative concepts. The AFI awards confirm this approach.

Apple TV strengthens its position in the world of TV series

The 2025 AFI Awards demonstrate the significant impact Apple TV has had on the television landscape. Pluribus, Severance, and The Studio are among the three most important television achievements of the year. Combined with its successes in previous years, this paints a clear picture of significant growth. Apple TV is not just another streaming service, but a provider that has secured its place in the industry through consistent quality. (Image: Apple)