Apple TV+ Doubles Down on Comedy: ‘Trying’ and ‘The Studio’ get Renewed

Apple TV+ is investing further in comedy, confirming new seasons for two of its best-reviewed sitcoms: the beloved British series “Trying” and Seth Rogen’s Hollywood satire “The Studio.” These renewals, both announced in early May 2025, reinforce Apple’s strategy of nurturing critically acclaimed originals-even before their current seasons finish airing. As competition among streamers intensifies, this approach could prove pivotal in keeping subscribers engaged.

‘Trying’: A Feel-Good Staple Returns for Series Five

Apple’s press release confirms that “Trying” will return for a fifth series. The next chapter promises more of Nikki and Jason’s chaotic but charming family life, with the arrival of Princess and Tyler’s biological mother, Kat (Charlotte Riley), set to shake things up. Stars Esther Smith and Rafe Spall will reprise their roles, joined by BAFTA-winning supporting cast members including Darren Boyd and Siân Brooke.

The renewal comes as no surprise: “Trying” holds a 95% critics’ rating and a 93% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes (as of May 2025). Produced by BBC Studios, the show continues to give Apple TV+ a distinctly British flavour, adding cultural variety to a lineup still dominated by American productions.

‘The Studio’: Hollywood Satire Scores a Quick Second Act

Less than two months after its premiere, “The Studio” has been renewed for a second season, as reported by Variety. Apple TV+ head Matt Cherniss praised the show’s “brilliant” blend of industry in-jokes and star-studded cameos, noting that it has built “week-on-week buzz.”

The series stars Seth Rogen as Matt Remick, a newly installed studio boss whose dream job quickly becomes overwhelming. Critics have embraced the show’s sharp, anxiety-ridden take on modern Hollywood, with early reviews from outlets like Rolling Stone and Empire calling it “one of the best new comedies of 2025.” While Rotten Tomatoes has yet to publish a consensus score, initial critic and audience reactions have been largely positive, though some viewers find its industry satire a bit niche.

Why These Renewals Matter for Apple TV+

From a business perspective, extending proven hits is often safer and more cost-effective than launching untested concepts. Both series also target distinct but valuable demographics:

• Family-centred warmth: “Trying” appeals to viewers who crave optimistic, heartwarming storytelling-an increasingly rare commodity in prestige TV.
• Insider comedy: “The Studio” caters to media-savvy audiences who enjoy self-referential humour and high-profile guest stars.

Together, they broaden Apple TV+’s comedic range and reinforce its reputation for quality over quantity. With the monthly subscription still priced at £8.99 adding more hours of critically acclaimed comedy only strengthens the service’s value proposition.

Looking Ahead

Production timelines for both shows have yet to be announced, but Apple is unlikely to keep fans waiting long. The eighth and final episode of “The Studio” season one drops this week, with scripting for season two reportedly underway. “Trying” show-runner Andy Wolton is also expected to continue delivering the series’ trademark blend of humour and heart.

Closing Thoughts

Apple’s swift double-renewal signals confidence not just in these individual shows, but in comedy as a cornerstone of its originals lineup. The real test will be retention: can a broader comedic slate keep subscribers loyal when the next breakout drama arrives elsewhere? For now, investing in both a comforting family series and a savvy industry satire looks like a smart hedge-one that could pay dividends as viewers weigh which streaming services truly feel indispensable.