Sunny: A Sci-Fi Black Comedy Series on Apple TV+

Sunny is an innovative sci-fi black comedy series crafted by Katie Robbins exclusively for Apple TV+. It draws inspiration from Colin O’Sullivan’s 2018 novel Dark Manual and comprises a compelling 10-episode first season, each helmed by a different director.

Overview of the Series

Set against the backdrop of Japan, the narrative follows Suzie Sakamoto, portrayed by Rashida Jones, as she comes to grips with her husband and son’s mysterious disappearance following a plane crash. In a twist of fate, she receives a unique robot named Sunny from the electronics company where her husband worked, intended as a form of consolation.

The Cancellation of Sunny

Unfortunately, recent reports from ScreenDaily confirm the cancellation of Sunny, leaving fans in suspense following the dramatic cliffhanger of the season finale. This decision is chiefly attributed to the show’s lukewarm reception and lackluster popularity. The cancellation adds Sunny to a growing list of Apple TV+ shows—including Strange Planet, The Changeling, and Time Bandits—that have been discontinued after just one season.

Reasons Behind the Show’s Low Popularity

The series has struggled to capture a strong audience, which is reflected in its status as one of the lesser-known offerings on the platform. Being a rare show filmed primarily in Japan and featuring a predominantly Japanese cast, it brought a unique perspective but failed to gain substantial viewership. A recent analysis by TelevisionStats.com indicates a continuous decline in its popularity, positioning it at the 26th spot in terms of viewer rankings on Apple TV+.

Plot Synopsis

Sunny unfolds in a futuristic Japan where Suzie Sakamoto’s life spirals into chaos after the inexplicable loss of her family. As she wrestles with her grief, the introduction of Sunny the robot serves as both an emotional anchor and a catalyst for discovery. Initially thought to be a simple household convenience, Suzie learns that Sunny harbors deep connections to her past and her missing family.

Throughout the series, the bond between Suzie and Sunny evolves, driving Suzie to uncover unsettling truths about her family’s fate and the larger implications surrounding it.

Cast Highlights

• Rashida Jones as Suzie Sakamoto
• Hidetoshi Nishijima as Masahiko Sakamoto
• Joanna Sotomura as the voice of Sunny
• Judy Ongg as Noriko Sakamoto
• Annie Wersching as Mixxy
• Jun Kunimura as Yuki Tanaka
• Yukiko Ehara as Hime
• Fares Belkheir as Zen Sakamoto
• Shin Shimizu as Tetsu
• Sekiguchi Anam as Yuki Tanaka
• Fubito Yamano as Jin
• Kazuko Sakagami as Noriko’s friend
• Tetsu Watanabe as Reiji

All episodes of the first season of Sunny are currently available for streaming on Apple TV+.

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