Hates Work, Loves TV: Why AppleTV+ 'Murderbot' Is The Most Relatable Robot

Murderbot Is the Antihero We Never Knew We Needed

Apple TV+’s latest foray into sci-fi, Murderbot, dropping May 16, 2025, offers quirky, character-driven storytelling. Based on Martha Wells’ award-winning The Murderbot Diaries, the 10-episode series takes an unconventional approach to artificial intelligence by focusing on a rogue security android who’s more interested in soap operas than saving lives. Truly a robot after my own heart. 

With Alexander Skarsgård bringing the titular character to life and a creative team led by Chris and Paul Weitz, Murderbot is at times funny, jarring, deeply relatable, and occasionally clunky. 

Let’s get into this sci-fi treat. 

What Is Murderbot All About?

Set in a future where corporations govern space exploration (think FireFly, one of the best sci-fi shows to ever fly), Murderbot follows a self-aware android who’s hacked its own programming to gain autonomy. (Like Megan but less.) While it’s technically a “SecUnit” meant for protection, it secretly desires one thing: to be left alone with its favorite entertainment feeds. Like, this  SecUnit and I are completely one and the same. I do not want to interact with humans, I just want to watch my shows and scroll. Absolutely relatable. Unfortunately for Murderbot, things never go as planned. Same Murderbot, same. 

When a group of human scientists finds themselves under threat, our antihero is reluctantly pulled into a mission that forces it to interact with people and question its own identity. This group of weird scientists are everything. They make the series. I love the time the series takes to give us a backstory into the characters. It is quick but there is still substance there. 

A Sci-Fi Series That Hits… Mostly

Relatable in the Weirdest, Most Honest Ways

One of the show’s greatest achievements is how relatable Murderbot actually is. Despite being a machine, he embodies very human feelings: he hates his job, dislikes most people, and really just wants to watch his shows in peace. That dry, ironic detachment makes him one of the most unexpectedly empathetic protagonists in recent sci-fi. The perfect anti-hero on paper to be honest. 

His internal monologue is full of snark, sarcasm, and a surprisingly nuanced emotional landscape, which makes each interaction, however begrudging, feel authentic. Honestly, who hasn't fantasized about avoiding all responsibilities and binge-watching TV forever? I’m going to drive this point home, I’m sorry. Last time, promise. 

Standout Moments and Jarring Shifts

Alexander Skarsgård: Funny but Slightly Miscast?

Alexander Skarsgård delivers an admirable performance, especially in the comedic beats. His timing is sharp, and his delivery suits the android’s dry wit. That said, comedy may not be his strongest niche. There are moments where Murderbot’s emotional awkwardness feels forced or doesn’t fully land, which may be more about direction than talent. I cannot quite put my finger on it. 

Still, Skarsgård brings a lot of charisma to the role, and when he nails it, he really nails it. Perhaps I am just too used to seeing him as a vampire or a villain, the comedy side of him takes some getting used to. Let me know in the comments if I am way off base here. 

Some Scenes Are Just... Off

While the tone of the show gives action and thoughtfulness, there are a few jarring scenes that break the immersion. The shock value scenes can be a bit too much in my opinion. These moments don’t ruin the experience, but they do stand out as bumps in an otherwise smooth series.

Guest Stars and Supporting Cast Shine

One thing Murderbot gets right? An interesting array of guest stars. Without spoiling too much, expect appearances from well-known actors who elevate the side plots with humor. The supporting cast, including Noma Dumezweni, David Dastmalchian, and Sabrina Wu, bring strong performances that complement Murderbot’s socially awkward personality.

World-Building, Visuals, and Direction

A Beautiful but Sometimes Clunky Experience

Visually, Murderbot is a bit confusing. I cannot tell if they spared no expense or were on a tight budget. Is this world supposed to look like left over scraps from Star Wars?

Also, the pacing and narrative flow can get clunky at times. Some episodes feel bloated, while others could benefit from more character development or tighter editing. It’s not a deal-breaker, but viewers may notice the uneven rhythm.

Should You Watch Murderbot?

Absolutely, especially if you're into smart, sarcastic sci-fi.

Murderbot isn’t perfect, but its imperfections are part of its charm. It offers a refreshing take on AI, personal identity, and introversion, wrapped in a sometimes hilarious, sometimes awkward package. While it does hit a few bumps, some jarring scenes, occasional tonal confusion, and a performance that’s almost but not quite perfect, it still delivers a story that feels both intimate and expansive.

So, watch the series and come back to leave your comments, I need to know if people agree.