Apple TV+’s sci-fi drama Foundation is climbing the streaming charts just weeks before its highly anticipated Season 3 premiere on July 11. Based on Isaac Asimov’s legendary novels, the show currently ranks #9 on Apple TV+, according to FlixPatrol, as more viewers catch up on earlier episodes.
The series stars Lee Pace, Jared Harris, and Lou Llobell, and is set in a distant future where humans live across the galaxy under a vast empire. With a strong 86% Rotten Tomatoes score, and Season 2 scoring a perfect 100%, the show has quietly become a fan favorite.
What to Expect in Season 3
The new season picks up 152 years after Season 2. The once-mighty Galactic Empire is weakening, and the Foundation has expanded its influence. But a new villain, The Mule, now threatens the galaxy. Using military strength and mind control, he seeks total domination.
Key characters like Hari Seldon (Jared Harris), Gaal Dornick (Lou Llobell), and the ruling clones of Emperor Cleon (Lee Pace, Cassian Bilton, Terrence Mann) face new choices in a galaxy on the brink of war.
Actor Lee Pace teased major changes in his character, saying this Cleon is disillusioned and distant from power. “He wants nothing to do with the galaxy,” Pace told Esquire. Cleon now appears with long hair, a full beard, and a clear desire to disconnect from the Empire’s fate.
Delays and New Stars
Season 3 faced several delays due to the Hollywood strikes and Apple’s production cuts. Filming began in 2023 but was paused for months before resuming in March 2024.
Despite the setbacks, Foundation’s return is bigger than ever, featuring new guest stars including:
- Cherry Jones (Succession)
- Brandon P. Bell (Dear White People)
- Tómas Lemarquis (X-Men: Apocalypse)
- Troy Kotsur (CODA)
- Pilou Asbæk (Aquaman)
The show’s growing popularity and impressive production suggest that fans won’t have to wait as long for Season 4, which is already in development.
