Apple TV+ has launched a new sci-fi series called Murderbot, based on Martha Wells’ popular book series The Murderbot Diaries. The show follows a security android who gains free will but would rather watch soap operas than deal with humans. Alexander Skarsgård plays the lead role, bringing humor and depth to the character.
The series premiered on May 16, 2025, with the first two episodes available immediately. New episodes are released weekly. Fans of the books and newcomers alike are sharing their thoughts on the adaptation.
Murderbot Plot and Story
The story centers on Murderbot, a security android that secretly hacks its own programming to gain independence. Instead of going rogue, it prefers watching a fictional soap opera called Sanctuary Moon. However, it still has to protect a team of scientists on a dangerous planet.
The show balances action, comedy, and emotional moments as Murderbot struggles with social anxiety and human interactions. The scientists, part of the Preservation Alliance, treat it more like a person than a machine, which makes Murderbot uncomfortable.
“Murderbot’s leery reaction and discomfort with all the woke touch-y / feel-y stuff is a lot of fun. A real break from the endless grim dystopian stuff.” – kathbyrdmetbabe, Metacritic user review
Cast and Characters
- Alexander Skarsgård as Murderbot – A socially awkward security android who just wants to be left alone.
- Noma Dumezweni as Dr. Mensah – The leader of the science team who believes in treating Murderbot with respect.
- David Dastmalchian as Gurathin – A tech expert who distrusts Murderbot from the start.
- Sabrina Wu as Pin-Lee – A scientist and legal advisor.
- Akshay Khanna as Ratthi – A friendly and talkative team member.
The cast has received praise for their performances, especially Skarsgård, who brings a mix of humor and tension to the role.
“Alexander Skarsgård is very funny as the anxious and sarcastic Murderbot. The breezy tone and short episodes keep you coming back for more.” – TV Guide review
Episode Runtime and Season Length
Each episode is 22-24 minutes long, with 10 episodes in the first season. Some fans feel the episodes are too short, making the weekly wait frustrating. Others enjoy the fast-paced storytelling.
“The 25-minute format feels rushed. You can’t make TV based on Murderbot’s inner narrative, so you are left with something that feels a bit thin.” – IMDb user review
Fan Reactions and Reviews
The show has received mixed but mostly positive reactions. Critics praise the humor and Skarsgård’s performance but note that some book fans might miss deeper themes.
On IMDb, the series holds a strong rating, with many enjoying its unique tone. Some viewers recommend waiting until all episodes are out to binge-watch, as the short runtime makes weekly viewing feel incomplete.
“This doesn’t focus on what the books do. The books read very quickly and Murderbot spent a lot of time internalizing what he was doing. This show is trying but more time is spent on the other characters.” – WatchinMovies, Metacritic user review
Where to Watch
Murderbot is available exclusively on Apple TV+. The first season finale was on July 11, 2025.
Future of the Series
The show has already been renewed for a second season, which will likely adapt the next book in the series. Fans are excited to see more of Murderbot’s adventures.
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Credits: Information gathered from IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes, Metacritic, TV Guide, and fan forums.
