Stephen King praises cancelled Apple TV+ sci-fi series Constellation, describing it as “just about perfect,” even as fans react with disappointment over its abrupt cancellation. Despite strong writing, memorable performances, and a dedicated audience, Apple ended the show after one season, leaving viewers and creators wondering why such an acclaimed story was halted prematurely.
How ‘Constellation’ Set Itself Apart in the World of Science Fiction
Constellation arrived on Apple TV+ last year as an ambitious drama that blended cerebral science fiction with emotional storytelling, immediately distancing itself from typical space thrillers. The narrative centers around astronaut Jo Ericsson, played by Noomi Rapace, whose return to Earth after a devastating incident on the International Space Station becomes a journey through fractured reality. Jo’s struggle is not just with the aftermath of space disaster, but with the unsettling distortions in her life—her daughter, portrayed by Davina and Rosie Coleman, seems changed, objects are not as she remembers, and her memories are increasingly unreliable.
This series, with its focus on the psychological aftermath of trauma and questions of identity, used the sci-fi genre as a lens to explore deeper personal issues. Jonathan Banks, best known for Breaking Bad, played Henry Caldera, a brilliant yet unstable physicist whose connection to Jo’s experiences drives the show’s twisting plot. Supported by James D’Arcy and William Catlett, the ensemble cast delivered standout moments that brought each character’s emotional landscape to life.
Created by Peter Harness, known for Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell, and executive produced by Michelle MacLaren, the show boasted a visual style as compelling as its storyline. MacLaren’s direction of the first two episodes helped establish an atmospheric tone that heightened the show’s exploration of whether Jo’s disorientation was caused by physical effects of space or a deeper, more mysterious universal shift. The combination of striking visuals, tense drama, and a cliffhanger ending balanced heartbreak and horror, creating a uniquely compelling science fiction experience.
Plans for Season 2 and the Frustration of an Unfinished Story
The show’s sudden cancellation became even more painful for fans when it was revealed that plans for a second season were already in development. In a 2024 interview with Collider, showrunner Peter Harness—who wrote every episode—laid out his approach for future storylines, particularly the relationship between Henry and Bud. He explained that the ideas he developed are:
saved up for a rainy day in the future,
– Peter Harness, Showrunner
This hinted at a deeper mythology and stories left untold, which now hang in limbo. Harness was careful to give viewers a degree of closure with Jo and her daughter Alice, mindful of the disappointment that a total cliffhanger could bring. While some felt satisfied by the emotional resolution, the show left many tantalizing questions: What would happen if Jo encountered alternate versions of herself? How far would the collapse of timelines and realities go?
Constellation’s deliberate pacing set it apart from other streaming shows. The creative team avoided rushing revelations or relying on shock value, instead letting the tension and character development unfold naturally. Apple’s weekly episode schedule gave viewers time to process each twist, allowing the drama’s complexity to fully resonate. The show’s approach to unraveling its mysteries, coupled with its focus on character, made it especially rewarding—and makes its cancellation even harder to accept.
Apple TV+ has made a name for itself by supporting high-concept, slow-burn series such as Severance and For All Mankind. With this in mind, the choice to end Constellation after only one season stands out as particularly puzzling. The series not only attracted science fiction fans but also engaged viewers looking for emotional depth and captivating characters. For Stephen King, its quality was undeniable, and for many others, it was a standout series deserving of more time to expand its story and reach its potential.
The Legacy and Impact of ‘Constellation’
While Constellation may not get the second season its creative team and fans hoped for, its impact within the genre is already apparent. Through its memorable cast—featuring Noomi Rapace as Jo, Jonathan Banks as Henry Caldera, James D’Arcy, William Catlett, and young actors Davina and Rosie Coleman as Alice—the show delivered powerful moments of suspense and emotional resonance. Executive producer Michelle MacLaren and writer Peter Harness crafted a vision that merged technical innovation with intimate storytelling.
The lingering questions and strong desire for more episodes reflect how effective Constellation was in capturing audience investment. The show’s careful balance of science fiction with grounded human drama has influenced discussion about the role of ambitious storytelling in streaming television. For fans and creators alike, its abrupt end serves as a reminder of the challenges even visionary series can face in today’s crowded entertainment landscape.
Season 1 of Constellation is available to stream on Apple TV+, leaving behind a legacy of bold storytelling, exceptional performances, and a devoted fanbase that continues to hope for a revival. Stephen King’s praise and the ongoing demand for a continuation highlight just how significant the series remains for those who experienced its singular blend of intensity, mystery, and heart.
