Apple TV+’s science fiction series, Foundation, starring Lee Pace, has surpassed Jason Momoa’s historical drama, Chief of War, to become the platform’s top global show. Following the July 11, 2025, premiere of Foundation Season 3, the series quickly rose into the Top 10 in multiple countries such as Argentina, Australia, India, and Portugal.
The show has steadily gained widespread popularity, reaching the number one ranking in countries including Germany, Greece, Brazil, Switzerland, Spain, and Sweden. Meanwhile, Chief of War continues to perform strongly in key markets like the United States and United Kingdom, as well as Uganda, Venezuela, the Bahamas, and Bahrain. Foundation features a notable ensemble cast with Jared Harris, Lou Llobell, Leah Harvey, and Lee Pace leading the story. Based on the well-known novel series, it follows a group of exiles striving to protect humanity’s future.
Critical Reception and Season 3 Overview
Critics have responded positively to Foundation, with the series holding an 87% critic score and a 72% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Season 3 takes place 152 years after Season 2 and introduces Pilou Asbæk, a Game of Thrones alumnus, who steps in to play the mutant telepath known as the Mule, replacing Mikael Persbrandt. This season includes 10 episodes, with the finale scheduled for September 12, continuing to expand the scope and intensity of the storyline.
Jared Harris on the Evolution of ‘Foundation’ and Hari Seldon’s Role
Jared Harris, who portrays mathematician and psychohistorian Hari Seldon, recently discussed the direction of Foundation’s third season. He explained that the first two seasons focused on world-building and introducing the galaxy’s rules, whereas Season 3 immediately immerses viewers in action, shifting towards a more overt space opera and adventure tone.
Regarding the introduction of Pilou Asbæk’s character, Harris highlighted the profound impact of the Mule on the story’s trajectory.
It completely realigns everything possible in the whole story,
he remarked. Harris also noted that Gaal, played by Lou Llobell, takes on an expanded leadership role this season and is one of the few characters who quickly recognizes these changes.
Harris further revealed that multiple versions of Hari Seldon will appear throughout the season, enhancing the complexity of the narrative.
There will be even more of Hari Seldon to go around, with multiple iterations and recreations of the mathematician’s mind at play.
He added that the creative team has put considerable effort into differentiating these iterations physically and emotionally, adding depth to Harris’s character portrayal.
What Viewers Can Expect and Future Episodes
New episodes of Foundation Season 3 are released every Friday on Apple TV+, continuing the saga of humanity’s struggle under the Galactic Empire’s rule. The expanding cast and evolving storylines promise an engaging experience for fans of complex science fiction set across planets scattered throughout the galaxy. As Foundation continues to lead Apple TV+’s global charts, it signals the series’ increasing cultural impact and anticipation surrounding its finale.
