The creator of the global television phenomenon Breaking Bad has returned with a brand new psychological sci-fi drama that is already captivating audiences. Pluribus, the latest series from mastermind writer Vince Gilligan, is now releasing weekly on Apple TV+, with fans quickly branding it a 'must-see' and a 'masterpiece'.
What is Pluribus and How Can You Watch It?
Pluribus is a nine-episode series that began its weekly release on Apple TV+, with the season finale scheduled for December 26. The show's success has been so immediate that it has already been officially commissioned for a second season. The series reunites Gilligan with two-time Emmy-nominee Rhea Seehorn, who is best known for her role as Kim Wexler in the Breaking Bad spin-off, Better Call Saul.
Apple TV's official tease for the show sets up a compelling premise: 'The most miserable person on Earth must save the world from happiness.' Seehorn takes on the lead role of Carol, a best-selling author who discovers she is immune to a strange virus that has indoctrinated the entire world into a state of bliss.
The Burning Question: Is Pluribus Connected to Breaking Bad?
Given the shared creative team, many viewers have been quick to spot similarities and speculate on a deeper connection to the iconic Albuquerque-set world of Walter White. However, Vince Gilligan has confirmed that Pluribus is not connected to Breaking Bad in terms of its plot.
The two shows exist in separate universes, with any potential nods to Gilligan's prior work intended as fun Easter eggs for dedicated fans rather than evidence of a shared narrative. Despite this official clarification, fan theories continue to flourish on social media.
Fan Reactions and Critical Acclaim
The audience response to Pluribus has been overwhelmingly positive. On the review aggregation site Rotten Tomatoes, the series has achieved an impressive score of 99 percent. One viewer hailed it as 'the best of all physiological thrillers,' while others have taken to online platforms to dissect its themes and style.
Some fans remain convinced of a hidden link to the Breaking Bad universe. One social media user theorised, 'I think there are a number of signs to indicate that Pluribus is actually canon to the Breaking Bad universe.'
Conversely, other viewers are championing the show as a standalone triumph. A different fan posted, 'Pluribus is something else entirely... I feel people need to move past even a good show like BB and give new shows the standalone recognition they deserve.' This sentiment highlights the challenge and excitement for Gilligan as he steps out from the shadow of his previous monumental success to build a new world for audiences to explore.
Pluribus is available to stream exclusively on Apple TV+.
