Vince Gilligan’s ‘Pluribus’ Review Roundup: Show Debuts with Outstanding Rotten Tomatoes Score
Apple TV has launched a new science fiction drama series called Pluribus, created by Vince Gilligan, the mastermind behind Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul.
The series stars Rhea Seehorn, who previously collaborated with Gilligan on Better Call Saul. Apple has already ordered two seasons, and the first season will include nine episodes, with the premiere featuring two episodes released on November 7.
Set in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Pluribus follows Carol Sturka, a historical romance author who is one of only eleven people immune to a mysterious virus that has made the rest of the world unusually happy and content. The show explores how Carol navigates this strange new reality, while dealing with the unusual social and emotional consequences of the virus.
We hope you enjoy the trailer, Carol.#Pluribus premieres November 7 on Apple TV. pic.twitter.com/XG3LbdZoDh
— Apple TV (@AppleTV) October 22, 2025
The series also features Karolina Wydra as Zosia, Carlos Manuel Vesga as Manousos, and guest appearances from Miriam Shor, who plays Carol’s manager and romantic partner Helen. Peter Bergman appears as Davis Taffler, a government official interacting with Carol about her unique situation.
The show debuted with a 100% Critics score on Rotten Tomatoes based on 27 reviews.
Critics have praised the series for its suspenseful and unpredictable storyline, comparing it to other popular shows like Severance and The Leftovers in terms of its eerie atmosphere and emotional depth.
They highlighted the strong performances, particularly from Rhea Seehorn, as well as the sharp writing and Gilligan’s skillful direction. The series blends elements of suspense, humor, and heartfelt drama, keeping viewers engaged while exploring deeper emotional and existential themes.
Must-watch television It combines the eerie intrigue of Severance with the haunting, apocalyptic drama of The Leftovers all brought to life through Vince Gilligan’s masterful writing and direction
Zach Pope
This might be the best pandemic-related art we’ve gotten yet, because it comes at those themes from the most unexpected of angles, prying open the lingering trauma from those years to explore the deeper ways that time hurt us all.
Liz Shannon Miller
Through seven episodes, Vince Gilligan’s Pluribus has enough intrigue to keep you invested with the hopes that the payoff is worthy of the build.
Ricky Valero
With Pluribus, I was absolutely riveted from the jump. It’s an expertly crafted series, with smart, engaging (and often laugh-out-loud funny) writing and performances.
Jean Henegan
Gilligan, perhaps seeing something of himself in Carol as he attempts to tell a more ambitious story, raises a whole host of emotional and existential questions that transcend the show’s sci-fi trappings.
Chase Hutchinson
… Gilligan not only contributes another sci-fi masterpiece that feels right at home in the Apple TV library but also delivers a series that manages to be equal parts unnerving, hilarious, heartbreaking, and always unexpected.
Carly Lane
Overall, Pluribus has received positive early reactions, with viewers appreciating the mix of sci-fi, tension, and thoughtful storytelling. The show is being noted as a strong addition to Apple TV’s lineup and is considered a must-watch for fans of Gilligan’s previous work.
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