Murderbot Reloaded: Apple’s Quirky New Sci-Fi Thrills

Apple TV+ is turning sci-fi on its head with Murderbot, a comedic thriller that proves even the deadliest droids can have a soft spot for soap operas. Starring and executive produced by Alexander Skarsgård, the 10-episode series is adapted from Martha Wells’ beloved book saga about “a self-hacking security construct who is horrified by human emotion yet drawn to its vulnerable clients.” Or, as the show’s official logline puts it: “It really just wants to be left alone to figure out its place in the universe—preferably while binging futuristic soap operas.”

With showrunners Chris and Paul Weitz behind the scenes, expect the same snarky spark they brought to About a Boy. Skarsgård is poised to deliver a performance as dry and lethal as the name ‘Murderbot’ suggests—though rumor has it he’s also pretty hilarious when he’s not blasting baddies. “We’re not exactly aiming for a deep therapy session,” the show seems to wink, “but you might just find yourself rooting for a cybernetic assassin to find true happiness.”