Apple TV+ has renewed its epic science-fiction series Foundation for a fourth season, the streamer announced days before the Season 3 finale.
Based on Isaac Asimov’s seminal novels, Foundation follows a band of exiles as they attempt to save humanity and rebuild civilization amid the collapse of the Galactic Empire. The renewal came well ahead of the Season 3 finale, which is set to air Friday, Sept. 12.
Co-showrunners and executive producers Ian Goldberg and David Kob said in a joint statement that they feel “lucky and honored to be carrying the torch forward as co-showrunners into season four.” They added that they look forward to “continuing the epic, emotional storytelling that defined the first three seasons of the show,” and to working with what they called “some of the most talented, passionate creative partners in the business.”
Apple TV+ head of programming Matt Cherniss praised the series as a “global phenomenon,” noting that excitement has built with each season because of the show’s “bold storytelling and collective artistry” from its cast and creative team. The series stars Lee Pace, Jared Harris, Cherry Jones, Laura Birn, Rowena King and Lou Llobell, among others.
Production on Season 4 is expected to begin in early 2026. The streamer did not provide a premiere date. Foundation Seasons 1 through 3 are streaming now on Apple TV+.
The Season 3 finale’s logline indicates the episode will follow Gaal, played by Lou Llobell, and the Second Foundation as they “take the flight to the Mule” while the Emperor’s legacy suffers a “catastrophic blow.” The series has adapted and expanded Asimov’s material, translating the novels’ sweeping timeline and complex themes into serialized television.
Apple TV+ greenlighting a new season before a current season concludes follows a recent pattern among streamers that renew high-profile shows early to secure production schedules and retain creative teams. Officials said the renewal reflects confidence in the series’ continued audience engagement and the creative direction of the showrunners.
No further casting announcements or plot details for Season 4 have been released. The renewal ensures that the adaptation will continue to explore the political and philosophical stakes first laid out by Asimov and developed across the show’s three seasons to date.