A 152-year leap and a new villain threaten the future of the galaxy
Foundation Season 3 is set to premiere on July 11, 2025, on Apple TV+, with new episodes released weekly until September 12. The series, inspired by the work of Isaac Asimov, returns after nearly two years on hiatus. This time, Foundation introduces significant changes to both its narrative structure and character dynamics.
What’s changing in the new season?
First and foremost, the story jumps 152 years into the future. The plot now takes place more than a century after the events of Season 2. Consequently, we find a more established Foundation, while the Cleonic Empire shows clear signs of decline.
In addition to this structural shift, Foundation Season 3 introduces a new antagonist: the Mule. Briefly hinted at in earlier episodes, he now emerges as the main threat to galactic stability. He is a warlord with mind-control abilities, determined to dominate the universe through both physical and psychological force. Therefore, the political tension escalates dramatically.
In this context, the Foundation and the Empire attempt to form a fragile alliance—an effort likely to provoke internal conflict. Even though this union is necessary to face the common enemy, ideological rifts and mutual distrust could complicate cooperation.
New faces and long-awaited returns
To enrich the narrative even further, the third season introduces new characters portrayed by high-profile actors, including:
- Cherry Jones
- Troy Kotsur
- Pilou Asbæk (who takes on the role of the Mule, replacing Mikael Persbrandt)
Furthermore, familiar faces return to their iconic roles:
- Jared Harris as Hari Seldon
- Lee Pace as Brother Day
- Lou Llobell as Gaal Dornick
- Laura Birn as Demerzel
Thanks to this diverse and powerful cast, the season promises to expand the series’ universe with emotional depth and moral complexity.
Production and expectations
Although David S. Goyer is stepping down as showrunner, he will remain as an executive producer. This ensures the continuation of the series’ visually ambitious style and sophisticated storytelling.
Finally, by releasing weekly episodes, Apple TV+ is expected to keep the audience engaged over the course of two months. Therefore, this might be a great time to revisit previous seasons, which are already available on the platform.
