Season
Episode
Player server
The Morning Show

The Morning Show

20198
Drama
Released
Nov 01, 2019
Country
United States
Productions
Echo FilmsHello SunshineMedia ResBad Attitude EntertainmentKerry Ehrin ProductionsRed Shoes Pictures+1
A behind-the-scenes look at the lives of the people who help America wake up in the morning, exploring the unique challenges faced by the men and women who carry out this daily televised ritual.

About

Quick guide

A drama that follows the lives of those behind the morning news machine, tackling power struggles, personal ambition, and workplace politics.

The Morning Show stars Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon and Billy Crudup as co‑anchors of a popular New York morning program. After the original male host is fired for misconduct, Alex Levy must navigate a hostile newsroom while trying to keep the show afloat. The series explores the fallout of #MeToo, the pandemic, political pressure and a tech‑industry takeover, all while exposing the personal costs of public life. The show blends intimate character moments with high‑stakes corporate drama, offering a raw look at the world that wakes America every morning.

What to know

  • Lead stars include Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, Billy Crudup, Mark Duplass, and Gugu Mbatha‑Raw.
  • Set on the fictional UBA network in Manhattan, the show follows the daily operations of a live morning news program.
  • Season 1 centers on a sexual‑misconduct scandal that fires the long‑time male co‑anchor, triggering a power struggle.
  • Subsequent seasons tackle real‑world events such as COVID‑19, the Capitol insurrection and the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
  • Executive producer Kerry Ehrin and director Mimi Leder steer a dialogue‑heavy, politically‑charged narrative.
  • The show tackles mature themes, including workplace harassment, mental health, and the influence of technology on media.
  • Episodes are 46–70 minutes long and focus on character development more than plot‑driven twists.
  • Apple TV+ streams the series worldwide; new seasons premiere in the fall or early summer.

Watch if

If you enjoy character‑driven workplace dramas that blend personal conflict with current events—think The Newsroom, Succession, or The Good Wife—The Morning Show offers a compelling look at power, politics and the human cost of fame.

Skip if

If you prefer lighter, family‑friendly or purely entertainment‑based series, the series’ mature, dialogue‑heavy, and often political tone may feel heavy and slow‑burn for you.

political themesmature themespsychological elementsdark tonedialogue heavysuspenseful
Premise
Alex Levy and her new co‑anchor Bradley Jackson take the helm of a high‑profile morning show after the long‑time male host is dismissed for misconduct. The series follows the newsroom’s battle to maintain ratings, navigate corporate politics, and confront the fallout from a scandal that threatens to derail everything. It balances personal drama with industry gossip, set against real‑world events like the pandemic and political upheaval.
Main Characters
Jennifer Aniston plays Alex Levy, a seasoned anchor struggling for control. Reese Witherspoon is Bradley Jackson, a field reporter turned co‑anchor. Billy Crudup portrays CEO Cory Ellison, who steers the network. Mark Duplass is executive producer Chip Black. Gugu Mbatha‑Raw, Néstor Carbonell and Karen Pittman add depth as booker, meteorologist and producer, respectively. The ensemble reveals layered power dynamics.
Season One Highlights
Season 1 opens with the dismissal of Mitch Kessler, creating a leadership vacuum. Alex fights to stay on the show while Bradley is promoted. The crew confronts allegations, workplace harassment, and the pressure of live TV. Dramatic moments include a heated on‑air interview, a viral clip, and a personal revelation that shakes the crew.
Season Two Developments
The network faces a pandemic‑driven crisis and a CEO’s attempt to bring Alex back. Bradley’s personal identity crisis and the team’s struggle with a new format test loyalties. The season highlights a controversial take on COVID coverage, a tech‑company acquisition proposal, and deeper exploration of the #MeToo fallout.
Themes & Tone
The series blends political commentary with intimate drama. It explores how personal ambition collides with corporate responsibility, while addressing mental health, media ethics, and the influence of social media on journalism. The tone is largely dark and mature, underscored by sharp dialogue and realistic newsroom scenarios.
Production Notes
Directed by Mimi Leder, the show was developed by Kerry Ehrin and produced for Apple TV+. Each episode runs 46–70 minutes. The series uses a single‑camera setup to capture the immediacy of live television. The creative team emphasizes realism, drawing on real‑world events to ground the drama.

FAQ

50 Q&A
What is the deal with Hannah Shoenfeld?
Hannah Shoenfeld was a booker on the show who died by suicide. Her death led to an investigation into the network's culture.
How many seasons of 'The Morning Show' are there?
There are three seasons of 'The Morning Show'.
What happens in the second season of 'The Morning Show'?
The second season deals with the aftermath of the first season's events, including the #MeToo movement and the COVID-19 pandemic. Alex and Bradley navigate new challenges at the network.
Where can I watch 'The Morning Show'?
You can watch 'The Morning Show' on Apple TV+.
What is the deal with Chip Black?
Chip Black is the executive producer of 'The Morning Show'. He struggles with the fallout from Hannah's death and his own career.
What happens in the first season of 'The Morning Show'?
The first season explores the fallout after a popular anchor is fired for sexual misconduct, leading to a shake-up at the morning news program.
Who plays Bradley Jackson?
Bradley Jackson is played by Reese Witherspoon.
What is the deal with Mia Jordan?
Mia Jordan is a producer who becomes involved with Mitch Kessler. She faces challenges in her career and personal life.
What is 'The Morning Show' about?
'The Morning Show' is about the cutthroat world of morning television news. It explores the personal and professional lives of the people who bring the news to America.
Who are the main characters in 'The Morning Show'?
The main characters include Alex Levy, Bradley Jackson, Cory Ellison, and Mitch Kessler.
What inspired 'The Morning Show'?
The show was inspired by the #MeToo movement and the toxic workplace culture that can exist in news organizations.
What is the deal with Yanko Flores?
Yanko Flores is a meteorologist on 'The Morning Show'. He faces accusations of antisemitism.
How does 'The Morning Show' end?
The show does not have a definitive ending as it is an ongoing series with multiple seasons. Each season typically ends with new conflicts and unresolved issues.
Is 'The Morning Show' based on a true story?
While not based on one specific true story, the show is inspired by real-world events and the #MeToo movement in broadcast journalism.
Who plays Cory Ellison?
Cory Ellison is played by Billy Crudup.
What happens in the third season of 'The Morning Show'?
The third season focuses on the sale of UBA, the network where the show is produced, and Alex Levy's attempt to regain control. It also deals with new challenges and relationships.
What is the deal with Bradley Jackson?
Bradley Jackson is an ambitious journalist who becomes a co-anchor of 'The Morning Show'. She navigates career ambitions and personal struggles.
Who plays Mitch Kessler?
Mitch Kessler is played by Steve Carell.
Who plays Alex Levy?
Alex Levy is played by Jennifer Aniston.
What is the deal with Alex Levy?
Alex Levy is a veteran news anchor who faces challenges to her career and reputation. She often clashes with her co-anchors and management.
When did 'The Morning Show' first come out?
'The Morning Show' first premiered on November 1, 2019.
What is the deal with Stella Bak?
Stella Bak is the head of UBA News. She is a younger executive navigating the complexities of the network.
What is the deal with Mitch Kessler?
Mitch Kessler is a former co-anchor fired for sexual misconduct. His downfall and the subsequent investigation into his behavior are central to the show's early plotlines.
What is the deal with Claire Conway?
Claire Conway is a network executive who becomes romantically involved with Bradley Jackson. She faces career pressures and ethical dilemmas.
What is the deal with Cory Ellison?
Cory Ellison is the charismatic and ambitious CEO of UBA. He is known for his bold decisions and often manipulative tactics.
Who plays Chip Black?
Mark Duplass plays Chip Black.
Will there be a season 4 of 'The Morning Show'?
As of February 2026, a fourth season of 'The Morning Show' has been confirmed.
Who plays Mia Jordan?
Karen Pittman plays Mia Jordan.
Who is the new boss in season 3?
In season 3, the new boss of UBA is Paul Marks.
Does Alex and Bradley get along?
Alex and Bradley's relationship is often strained and complicated throughout the series.
What are the worst episodes of 'The Morning Show'?
Episode rankings vary, but some critics and viewers found certain episodes less engaging than others.
Will Alex and Bradley ever be friends again?
Their friendship is tested, but there's always a possibility for reconciliation.
Who plays Hannah Shoenfeld?
The character of Hannah Shoenfeld is played by Gugu Mbatha-Raw.
What's the deal with the ending of season 3?
The season 3 finale involves significant events related to UBA's sale and the characters' personal lives.
What are the best episodes of 'The Morning Show'?
Fan favorites and critically acclaimed episodes often focus on major plot developments and character arcs.
Who plays Stella Bak?
Julianna Margulies plays Stella Bak.
What is UBA?
UBA stands for the Universal Broadcasting Network, a fictional media company.
What is the network drama about?
The show is about the behind-the-scenes lives of people working in television news.
Why did Bradley join 'The Morning Show'?
Bradley joined 'The Morning Show' seeking a new opportunity and to escape her past.
What's going to happen next on 'The Morning Show'?
Future storylines will likely explore the consequences of season 3 events and new challenges for the characters.
Is the show's portrayal of TV news realistic?
The show offers a dramatic interpretation of TV news, blending fictional elements with real-world industry issues.
What are the real-life inspirations for the characters?
The characters and storylines are inspired by real events and personalities in the media industry.
Who plays Claire Conway?
The character of Claire Conway is played by Bel Powley.
Who plays Yanko Flores?
Nester Carbonell plays Yanko Flores.
What happens with the sale of UBA?
The sale of UBA is a major plot point in season 3, leading to significant changes.
What are people saying about the new season of 'The Morning Show'?
Reception to new seasons is generally mixed, with praise for performances and criticism of plot developments.
How does the #MeToo movement affect the show?
The #MeToo movement is a significant theme, influencing character actions and plotlines.
Why did Alex leave 'The Morning Show'?
Alex left 'The Morning Show' due to a scandal and a desire for change.
What did Mitch do?
Mitch Kessler faced accusations of sexual misconduct, which created a major scandal.
Is Mitch a bad guy?
Mitch's character is portrayed as morally complex, with his actions causing significant harm.

Actors

Jennifer Aniston
Jennifer Aniston
Alex Levy
Reese Witherspoon
Reese Witherspoon
Bradley Jackson
Billy Crudup
Billy Crudup
Cory Ellison
Mark Duplass
Mark Duplass
Charlie 'Chip' Black
Karen Pittman
Karen Pittman
Mia Jordan
Nicole Beharie
Nicole Beharie
Christina 'Chris' Hunter
Marion Cotillard
Marion Cotillard
Celine Dumont