Apple TV Premieres For All Mankind Spinoff Star City

The alternative-history science fiction drama For All Mankind is expanding its universe with a new spinoff series, Star City, which premieres on Apple TV on May 29 [1, 2]. While the original series focuses on an optimistic space saga, this new project shifts the perspective behind the Iron Curtain to examine the Soviet space program as an intense, paranoid spy thriller [1, 2].

Key takeaways

• Star City consists of eight episodes, with the first two debuting on May 29 and subsequent episodes released weekly on Fridays [1, 2].
• The series is set in the same alternative-history timeline as For All Mankind, where the Soviet Union achieved the first moon landing [1, 2].
• The plot centers on the surveillance and intrigue within the Soviet cosmonaut training center, featuring characters like the Chief Designer, played by Rhys Ifans [1, 2].
• Creators Ronald D. Moore, Matt Wolpert, and Ben Nedivi developed the show after researching the significant risks taken by Soviet cosmonauts and engineers [1, 2].

A Darker Perspective on the Space Race

Unlike the optimistic tone of its predecessor, Star City is described as a dark, compelling drama that explores the rigidity and tyranny of the Soviet system [1]. The story begins in 1969, following the Soviet moon landing, and focuses on the lives of those living and working within the secretive training facility [1]. The narrative is driven by characters such as Irina Morozova, a new member of the KGB surveillance department, and the Chief Designer, a role portrayed by Rhys Ifans [1, 2].

The series explores themes of sacrifice and risk, as characters navigate a world where they cannot reveal their true selves for fear of sabotage or death [1]. Co-creator Ben Nedivi noted that the show was inspired by research into the dangerous conditions faced by Soviet engineers and cosmonauts, who were often sent on missions in ships that were not fully prepared for flight [2]. The cast includes Adam Nagaitis as cosmonaut Valya Mironov, Anna Maxwell Martin as surveillance head Lyudmilla Raskova, and Alice Englert as cosmonaut Anastasia Belikova [1, 2].

Why it matters

Star City functions as a standalone series, meaning viewers do not need prior knowledge of For All Mankind to follow the plot [1]. The show arrives as the flagship series, For All Mankind, prepares to conclude with its sixth and final season in 2027 [1]. By shifting the focus to the Soviet perspective, the creators aim to provide a more comprehensive view of their alternative-history universe, highlighting the human cost and political paranoia inherent in the race for cosmic dominance [1]. While the series is exclusive to Apple TV, the platform offers a seven-day free trial for new subscribers [2].