[REVISION HISTORY]

Apple TV acquires Small Prophets; BBC renews series

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What changed

2026-10-07 13:04 UTC → 2026-10-21 11:52 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Apple TV has acquired the global distribution rights to the British comedy series ‘Small Prophets’, a move signaling a shift in the streaming service’s strategy toward acquiring successful existing formats. The acquisition was facilitated through distribution partner Sphere Abacus. Created, written, and directed by Mackenzie Crook, the six-episode series follows Michael Sleep, a DIY store worker in Manchester. Seven years after the disappearance of his partner, Clea, Sleep uses alchemy and rainwater—following an ancient recipe shared by his father, Brian (played by Sir Michael Palin)—to create homunculi. These tiny oracle beings in glass containers are intended to help predict the future and locate Clea. The series explores themes of loss, hope, and friendship as Michael receives help from his colleague Kacey (Lauren Patel) while navigating the suspicions of his neighbors. The production, a collaboration between Treasure Trove Productions and Channel X North, ~~features a cast including Pearce Quigley, Lauren Patel, Sophie Willan, Jon Pointing, and Paul Kaye.~~ utilizes stop-motion animation to bring the magical creatures to life. The series arrived on Apple TV on October 7, 2026, with the first two episodes released simultaneously. Upon its debut, the series achieved a “100% critic score on Rotten ~~Tomatoes.”~~ Tomatoes” and follows its previous recognition as the winner of Best Series in the International Panorama section at Series Mania in March 2026. Following a successful first run with viewership reaching up to 9.2 million, the BBC has renewed ‘Small Prophets’ for a second season, scheduled for a 2027 premiere. While the global launch on Apple TV began in late 2026, the series is expected to remain unavailable to subscribers in the United Kingdom until 2027.

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