Just signed up for Apple TV+? You’re not alone — it’s one of the most affordable premium streamers out there at just $10 per month, and it’s packed with high-quality, buzzworthy shows. But with so many originals to choose from, figuring out where to start can be overwhelming. Well, I’ve got a strong opinion on that. The very first drama you should dive into is “Severance.” No other show captures what Apple TV+ does best — bold, cinematic storytelling with a high-concept twist. If you’re looking for a series that’ll hook you from the jump and stick with you, “Severance” is the one.

Top drama TV show to stream first when you sign up for Apple TV+

Why ‘Severance’ is the drama to watch first on Apple TV+

I’ve seen every episode of “Severance,” and I still think it’s one of the highest concept shows I’ve ever watched. It’s the rare kind of show that hits you on every level — the world-building is elite, the performances are top-tier, and the whole concept is just… wild. The idea of splitting your work and personal memories into two separate people sounds like sci-fi, but the show treats it with such emotional depth that it feels almost real. Adam Scott is incredible in the lead, and the rest of the cast? Not a weak link in the bunch. If you want a drama that grabs your brain and your heart, this is it.

What really makes “Severance” stand out for me is how layered it is. It’s a workplace thriller, a slow-burn mystery, and a deeply emotional story about identity and grief — all at once. Season 1 is damn near perfect, and Season 2 somehow upped the stakes without losing the weird, eerie tone that made it special. And while it didn’t answer every question I had (here’s hoping Season 3 gives us something solid), it delivered some of the show’s best moments — including one of the most gut-wrenching finales I’ve seen in a long time. I’ve watched a lot of TV, and there’s only a handful of shows that hit like this one.

There’s also something about “Severance” that feels uniquely Apple TV+ — the slow pacing, the prestige feel, the sense that it’s not rushing to be loud, just excellent. It’s the show that transformed the platform from a “nice to have” to “must watch or you’re missing out on culture” level. Yes, Apple TV+ has a lot of great dramas now, but “Severance” still sets the bar. If you just signed up and want to see what all the fuss is about, start here. You’ll get hooked fast, and probably end up counting down the days until Season 3, just like I am.

Severance

February 17, 2022

Mark leads a team of office workers whose memories have been surgically divided between their work and personal lives. When a mysterious colleague appears outside of work, it begins a journey to discover the truth about their jobs.

What is ‘Severance’ about?

“Severance” is a sci-fi workplace thriller with one of the wildest premises I’ve ever seen. It follows Mark Scout (played perfectly by Adam Scott), who agrees to a strange medical procedure that splits his memories in two — one version of him only exists at work, the other only exists outside of it. Neither side knows anything about the other. It’s meant to create the perfect employee, but obviously… things get weird fast.

Once a former coworker shows up with a warning, Mark starts realizing his job might not be as harmless as it seems. From there, it turns into a full-on mystery, with Mark and his team digging into what Lumon Industries is really up to. The show’s got creepy vibes, sharp writing, and some big emotional punches — all wrapped up in this slow-burn puzzle that keeps getting stranger (and more addictive) the deeper you go.

Other must-stream drama shows on Apple TV+

If you’re looking for more standout dramas on Apple TV+, there are a few can’t-miss picks. “The Morning Show” dives into the messy world of broadcast news, power dynamics, and personal fallout, with Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon going toe-to-toe in a newsroom drama that’s glossy, sharp, and full of twists. If you want something more dystopian, “Silo” is a slow-burn sci-fi mystery set in a massive underground bunker where no one knows what’s really going on outside — or who’s telling the truth. And for a darker, more cynical take on spy thrillers, “Slow Horses” follows a group of MI5 rejects led by a delightfully grumpy Gary Oldman. It’s funny, tense, and full of double-crosses. All three bring something different to the table, but each one’s a solid follow-up once you’re done with Severance.