Vince Gilligan’s ‘Pluribus’ Review Roundup: Show Debuts with Stellar Rotten Tomatoes Score

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The new Apple TV series, Pluribus, from Vince Gilligan, has been receiving positive attention from critics since it debuted on November 7th.

Rhea Seehorn, known for her role in Better Call Saul, will star in a new science fiction drama, again working with the show’s creator, Gilligan. Apple has commissioned two seasons of the series, and the first season will premiere with two episodes on its launch date, followed by the remaining seven episodes later on.

Pluribus is a story set in Albuquerque, New Mexico, about Carol Sturka, a historical romance author. She’s one of just eleven people worldwide who haven’t been affected by a strange virus. This virus has changed everyone else into unusually happy and optimistic people.

The show follows Carol as she tries to find her place in a world where everyone appears strangely joyful, and it makes you think about what it truly means to be free, unique, and happy.

We hope you enjoy the trailer, Carol.#Pluribus premieres November 7 on Apple TV.

— Apple TV (@AppleTV) October 22, 2025

Rhea Seehorn plays Carol, Karolina Wydra is Zosia, and Carlos Manuel Vesga plays Manousos in the main cast. Miriam Shor appears as Helen, who manages Carol and is also her partner, alongside Samba Schutte. Peter Bergman guest stars as Davis Taffler, a government official who contacts Carol regarding her case.

The show debuted with a 100% Critics score on Rotten Tomatoes based on 27 reviews.

Pluribus has been well-received by critics, who highlight its suspenseful plot, emotional resonance, and interesting ideas. Reviewers particularly appreciated how the series combines a creepy, unsettling atmosphere with both dark humor and relatable human stories.

Critics loved the show’s writing and direction, noting how it uses a science fiction setting to thoughtfully explore difficult emotions and shifts in society. The way it tackles the trauma of a pandemic and its lasting mental health effects has resonated with viewers, and Rhea Seehorn’s performance as Carol has been consistently praised for making the show’s complex ideas feel real and human.

This show is a captivating blend of the unsettling mystery of Severance and the emotionally powerful, end-of-the-world feel of The Leftovers, all expertly crafted by the writing and direction of Vince Gilligan.

Zach Pope

This could be the most impactful art created about the pandemic so far. It approaches the subject in a surprising way, gently uncovering the lasting emotional wounds and exploring how those years deeply affected everyone.

Liz Shannon Miller

Vince Gilligan’s new series, Pluribus, builds a compelling mystery over its seven episodes, leaving you eager to see if the ending delivers on the promise.

Ricky Valero

I was hooked on Pluribus right away. It’s a really well-made show with clever writing and performances that are both captivating and often hilarious.

Jean Henegan

You know, watching this episode, I really felt like the creator, Gilligan, was pouring a little of himself into the character of Carol. He’s clearly trying to do something bigger here, and it really works. It’s not just about spaceships and aliens; the story digs deep, asking some genuinely moving and thought-provoking questions about life and what it all means. It’s surprisingly emotional, and it elevates the whole show beyond typical sci-fi fare.

Chase Hutchinson

Gilligan has created another fantastic science fiction show perfect for Apple TV+. It’s a series that’s both unsettling and funny, often heartbreaking, and consistently full of surprises.

Carly Lane

Pluribus is being praised as a captivating show for anyone who enjoys clever, surprising plots. It blends exciting suspense with thought-provoking explorations of life’s big questions.

Reviewers praise the show for its captivating story, compelling mysteries, and unexpected twists with the characters.

Pluribus is quickly becoming a highlight of Apple TV+, offering a unique mix of creator Dan Gilligan’s compelling storytelling, imaginative science fiction, and excellent acting.

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2025-11-07 15:16