Foundation is an American science fiction TV series created by David S. Goyer and Josh Friedman for Apple TV+, loosely based on Isaac Asimov's acclaimed Foundation book series
. The show premiered on September 24, 2021, and has been renewed through a third season set to premiere on July 11, 2025
Plot Overview
The story is set in the far future, where the galaxy is ruled by a genetic dynasty of Emperor Cleon clones. The central conflict revolves around mathematician Hari Seldon's development of psychohistory—an algorithm that predicts the fall of the Galactic Empire and the ensuing chaos. Seldon establishes the Foundation, a group tasked with preserving human knowledge and shortening the dark age following the empire's collapse. The series explores the power struggle between the Foundation and the Empire across centuries, featuring key characters like Gaal Dornick, the Cleons, and Lady Demerzel, an ageless humanoid robot
Production and Reception
- The show is produced by Skydance Television and Apple TV+, with Robyn Asimov (Isaac Asimov's daughter) serving as an executive producer
- It features an ensemble cast including Jared Harris (Hari Seldon), Lee Pace (Brother Day), Lou Llobell (Gaal Dornick), and Leah Harvey (Salvor Hardin)
- The series is noted for its ambitious scope, aiming to tell a story spanning a millennium, which the creators believe is better suited to a TV format than films
- Reception has been mixed, with some viewers praising its visuals and storytelling, while others criticize deviations from the source material and writing quality
Current Status
- Season 2 premiered on July 14, 2023.
- Season 3, set 152 years after Season 2, continues the saga with new threats such as the warlord "The Mule," focusing on the ongoing battle for the galaxy's future
In summary, Foundation is a visually rich, complex sci-fi series exploring grand themes of empire, destiny, and survival, continuing to expand its narrative across multiple seasons on Apple TV+
