It was a great year for new series, from the first show set in the world of the Alien films to Vince Gilligan’s first series post-Better Call Saul and Breaking Bad, which became the biggest new show to hit Apple TV. There is, of course, more than five new series released in 2025, but when it comes to picking the best, we have narrowed it down to the standouts you should have at least checked out a couple of episodes from.

Here’s the Top 5 New Series that were released in 2025.

5.) Alien: Earth

Can an Alien TV series work? I would have said no, but Alien: Earth shows you should always have some sort of open mind, as the series not only brings the neccesary scares, tension and gore you’d want from something with ‘Alien’ in the title, but most importantly brought a bunch of really interesting and exciting characters that were all deeply layered and instantly makes you want to see more of them.

– Dylan

4.) Adolescence

One of the saddest and most aggravating series in 2025 was Adolescence, which handles its look at the ‘youth of today,’ with a tenderness of wanting better for them and us. It’s an unforterable series, that is appreciated better watched in one episode bursts to digest, but also one I’d happily to see return in some form.

– Dylan

3.) The Pitt

The magic of The Pitt is how it is able to take a longstanding TV genre, the medical drama, and make it feel fresh and innovative. With its real-time structure, stellar cast and expertly weaved storylines, it no surprise that this show became a word of mouth hit that saw discussion around it build and build as the first season went on.

– Ashley

2.) The Studio

The Studio feels like it was made for film lovers with its behind-the-scenes look at the industry and spot-on satire of how Hollywood really works, clearly inspired by actual events experienced by the creative team. One of the most cinematic-looking shows this year, each episode feels worthy of being seen on the biggest screen possible as Matt Remick and the team at Continental Studios try not to ruin everything.

– Ashley

1.) Pluribus

The new series from Breaking Bad creator Vince Gilligan is an ambitious one, but also a sign that Gilligan isn’t going to dilute his ideas. It’s a wild concept that builds a dense, rich world to explore, and one that, as seen in the Apple TV numbers, everyone was willing to jump into and eager to learn more about.

– Dylan

Find all of Explosion Network’s Best of 2025 coverage right here, and be sure to let us know your thoughts on any of our lists in the comments section.