Apple TV to Premiere 'Small Prophets' on October 7

Apple TV has landed the first season of Small Prophets, a six-episode comedy created, written, and directed by Mackenzie Crook. The series will premiere October 7, 2026, outside the UK, with a UK release for Apple TV subscribers planned for 2027.



The story follows Michael Sleep (Pearce Quigley), whose partner Clea disappeared seven years ago. His life has since narrowed to shifts at a DIY store and visits with his father, Brian (Michael Palin), while he continues to hope Clea will return. When Brian gives him an old recipe involving rainwater, horse manure, and alchemy, Michael manages to create a group of homunculi: magical spirits that can predict the future. He wants them to answer one question: whether he will ever see Clea again.


Michael is helped by his younger coworker Kacey (Lauren Patel), and their friendship develops in part through their shared dislike of store manager Gordon, played by Crook. Sophie Willan and Jon Pointing appear as Michael's inquisitive neighbors, while Paul Kaye also stars.

Set and filmed around Manchester, the series combines live action with animation. Its first season premiered on BBC iPlayer and BBC Two in the UK earlier this year, and won the Best Series award in the International Panorama competition at Series Mania in March.

Small Prophets is produced by Treasure Trove Productions and Blue House Productions. Crook and Lisa Thomas serve as executive producers alongside director Christine Gernon and Emma Strain.