Apple TV's Captivating Sci-Fi Noir 'Sugar' Returns in 2026

Colin Farrell stars as a mysterious detective in this genre-bending series that rewards patient, character-driven storytelling.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Apple TV's neo-noir series "Sugar" quickly generated buzz for its striking visual style, genre-bending approach, and lead performance from Colin Farrell when it premiered in 2024. The show follows a private investigator named John Sugar who is hired to find a missing Hollywood heiress, but the case soon reveals itself to be far more complex than it initially appears. "Sugar" blends classic noir elements with unexpected sci-fi twists, anchored by Farrell's nuanced and introspective performance. The series is set to return for a second season in June 2026, making now the perfect time for viewers to catch up on this captivating genre hybrid.

Why it matters

"Sugar" represents Apple TV's continued commitment to ambitious, genre-blending television that prioritizes mood, character, and slow-burn storytelling over immediate answers. The series has flown under the radar since its debut, but its unique blend of neo-noir detective drama and sci-fi elements, as well as Colin Farrell's acclaimed performance, make it a must-watch for fans of character-driven genre stories in the vein of "Pluribus," another popular Apple TV series.

The details

"Sugar" follows John Sugar (Farrell), a private investigator in Los Angeles who is hired to find Olivia Siegel (Sydney Chandler), the missing granddaughter of a legendary Hollywood producer. The series initially presents itself as a classic noir detective story, complete with Sugar's voiceover narration and the sun-soaked backdrop of L.A. However, as the mystery unfolds, the show gradually reveals that there is far more going on beneath the surface, blending genre conventions in unexpected ways. The supporting cast includes Kirby Howell-Baptiste as Sugar's handler, Ruby, Amy Ryan as Olivia's alcoholic former stepmother, Melanie, and Nate Corddry as Olivia's troubled half-brother, David Siegel.

  • "Sugar" premiered on Apple TV in spring 2024.
  • The series was renewed for a second season in October 2024.
  • "Sugar" is set to return for its second season in June 2026.

The players

Colin Farrell

An acclaimed actor who delivers a nuanced and introspective performance as the lead character, John Sugar, in "Sugar."

Sydney Chandler

An up-and-coming actress who plays Olivia Siegel, the missing granddaughter at the center of the mystery in "Sugar."

James Cromwell

A veteran actor who portrays Jonathan Siegel, the legendary Hollywood producer and Olivia's grandfather.

Kirby Howell-Baptiste

An actress who plays Ruby, John Sugar's handler in the series.

Amy Ryan

An acclaimed actress who portrays Melanie, Olivia's alcoholic former stepmother, in "Sugar."

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We decided the story was strong enough and the character should be strong enough that we could wait.”

— Colin Farrell (Collider)

What’s next

Viewers can catch up on the first season of "Sugar" on Apple TV ahead of the show's highly anticipated second season return in June 2026.

The takeaway

"Sugar" is a captivating example of Apple TV's commitment to ambitious, genre-blending television that prioritizes mood, character, and slow-burn storytelling. With its striking visual style, genre-bending approach, and Colin Farrell's acclaimed performance, the series is a must-watch for fans of character-driven sci-fi noir.