Apple TV+ is facing scrutiny over the ballooning budgets of its TV series, with reports indicating that season 2 of Severance will cost $20 million per episode, amounting to a total of $180 million for the season. This comes as Apple has been spending significant amounts on shows like Scorsese’s Killers of the Flower Moon and Masters of the Air, as well as high-quality science fiction offerings like Severance, Foundation, Silo, and For All Mankind.
Despite the quality of its content, Apple TV+ has failed to perform as well as its rivals in the streaming space, accounting for just 0.2% of TV viewing in the US and garnering fewer views in a month than Netflix does in a day. The service has been criticized for its lack of marketing, limited availability on certain devices, and the need for more free trials to attract Apple customers. However, it remains to be seen how these factors will impact the future of the platform.
The exorbitant costs of producing shows like Severance have left many wondering why they require such high budgets, especially when much of the action in season 1 took place in a single location. The prospect of slashing budgets for popular shows raises concerns about the potential decline in quality, as seen in previous cases like Altered Carbon season 2.
While Apple TV+ boasts a higher percentage of quality content compared to other streaming services, it has struggled to attract a larger audience and expand its reach. The uncertain future of the platform raises questions about the fate of its beloved sci-fi series and whether budget cuts will affect the overall viewing experience. Despite the challenges, Apple TV+ remains committed to providing engaging and diverse content to its subscribers.
As Apple shifts away from its unlimited spending approach, the streaming service faces a critical juncture in its evolution. The outcome of this transition remains uncertain, but it is crucial for Apple TV+ to find a balance between financial sustainability and maintaining the high standards of its programming. Fans of the service can only wait and see how these changes will impact their favorite shows and the overall viewing experience.
