Apple TV has reached a major milestone this year, earning 26 nominations across 10 different programs for the 31st Annual Critics Choice Awards. This marks the highest number of television nominations the streaming service has ever received, highlighting its growing influence and consistency in producing acclaimed original content. The Critics Choice Association confirmed the nominations on Thursday, noting that Apple’s projects continue to expand in both range and impact.
Leading the pack is the blockbuster hit “F1 The Movie,” which secured seven nominations. The film received standout recognition in top technical categories such as Best Cinematography, Best Editing, Best Visual Effects, Best Stunt Design, and Best Sound. It also earned major music-related nods, including Best Score for legendary composer Hans Zimmer and Best Song for “Drive,” performed by Ed Sheeran, John Mayer, and Blake Slatkin. The film has been a global box office phenomenon, grossing over $631 million worldwide and becoming the highest-earning sports movie of all time. Its story follows a veteran Formula One driver returning to the racetrack, blending emotional depth with high-intensity racing drama that resonated strongly with audiences and critics.
Drama and Comedy Series Shine for Apple TV
Apple TV’s scripted series continue to dominate the awards conversation, especially in the drama and comedy categories. Two of its flagship titles, “Severance” and “Pluribus,” earned coveted Best Drama Series nominations. “Severance,” which has been a consistent awards contender since its debut, received four total nominations this year. These include acting nods for Adam Scott as Best Actor, Britt Lower as Best Actress, and Tramell Tillman as Best Supporting Actor. The show’s unique blend of psychological mystery and workplace dystopia continues to capture critical attention, reinforcing its status as one of Apple’s most prestigious offerings.
“Pluribus,” the new sci-fi drama from acclaimed creator Vince Gilligan and starring Rhea Seehorn, earned strong recognition despite premiering only in November. The series explores complex themes of identity, society, and alternate realities, securing Seehorn a Best Actress nomination in addition to its Best Drama Series nod. Its quick rise into the awards spotlight signals Apple’s continued success in developing ambitious, thought-provoking storytelling.
In comedy, “The Studio” earned three nominations, including Best Comedy Series and a Best Actor nomination for Seth Rogen. The satirical series made headlines earlier in the year for becoming the most Emmy-awarded freshman comedy in history. Its sharp writing and behind-the-scenes Hollywood satire have resonated widely with viewers.
Limited Series and Standout Performances
Apple TV’s success extended to the limited series categories as well. “Dope Thief” picked up three nominations, including Best Limited Series, with acting nominations for Brian Tyree Henry and Wagner Moura. The show blends crime, suspense, and character-driven drama, earning praise for its performances and gripping narrative. Meanwhile, “Chief of War,” Jason Momoa’s sweeping historical epic about the unification of Hawaii, also earned a nomination for Best Limited Series.
“The Morning Show,” one of Apple’s most recognized titles, added three more acting nominations to Apple’s overall count, honoring standout performances by Billy Crudup, Nicole Beharie, and Greta Lee. Additional nominations across Apple’s lineup include “The Gorge” for Best Movie Made for Television, “Acapulco” for Best Foreign Language Series, and “Murderbot,” with Alexander Skarsgård receiving a Best Actor in a Comedy Series nomination.
The 31st Critics Choice Awards will air live on January 4, 2026, from the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, with comedian Chelsea Handler returning as host for the fourth consecutive year. Apple TV’s record-breaking performance this year reinforces its continued rise as a major player in prestige television and film.
