Tim Cook and his successor John Ternus reveal their favorite Apple TV shows and discuss the leadership transition
Tim Cook and Apple's incoming CEO John Ternus appeared together at the Los Angeles premiere of the fourth season of Ted Lasso, where they discussed the company's leadership transition, the future of Apple TV+, and the shows they enjoy watching.
Here's what they shared.
Tim Cook's final Apple TV premiere as CEO
The event marked Cook's final Apple TV premiere as Apple's chief executive. He will step down as CEO on September 1 after 15 years in the role but will remain at the company as executive chairman of the board.
John Ternus, currently Apple's senior vice president of Hardware Engineering, will become the company's next CEO. During his 25 years at Apple, he has helped lead the development of multiple generations of the Mac, iPad, iPhone, and other products.
Cook said he feels grateful for the opportunity to lead Apple and praised the transition process, calling Ternus the right person for the job.
We really wanted this transition to be the best because Apple deserves the best, and both of us are really doing that, and it feels fantastic.
Ternus hints at what's next
Ternus described becoming Apple's next CEO as "an incredible opportunity" but declined to reveal what his first decision will be after officially taking over on September 1.
Asked what he plans to do first as CEO, he simply replied:
You'll have to wait and see.
Apple TV+ under Tim Cook
The premiere also served as an opportunity to reflect on the growth of Apple TV+, which launched on November 1, 2019.
During Cook's tenure, the service released several critically acclaimed series, including Severance, Silo, Slow Horses, and Ted Lasso.
Cook said every year has been stronger than the last. In 2026, Apple TV+ earned a record 89 Emmy nominations, including recognition for Pluribus, Your Friends & Neighbors, Slow Horses, Shrinking, Widow's Bay, and Margo's Got Money Problems.
Ted Lasso returns
Ted Lasso became one of Apple TV+'s first global hits. After its original three-season run concluded, many believed the series would not return.
Cook said he had hoped to see the show come back but insisted he never used his position at Apple to influence that decision.
This show means so much to so many people around the world. It's just great to have it back.
He also revealed that he intentionally avoided watching the new season before the premiere. Instead, he watched the first two episodes alongside Ternus, Apple video executives Zack Van Amburg and Jamie Erlicht, and other guests at the event.
Watching on Apple Vision Pro
Cook said he plans to watch the rest of the season using Apple Vision Pro.
He previously mentioned using the headset to watch the third season and said it is particularly comfortable when lying down.
Favorite Apple TV+ shows
Ternus said Ted Lasso remains one of his favorites. He also highlighted Pluribus, Widow's Bay, Silo, and Lucky.
Cook named Severance, Widow's Bay, Pluribus, and Silo among his favorites.
The future of Apple TV+
Ternus did not signal any major strategic changes for Apple TV+ once he becomes CEO.
Instead, he said the platform has built strong momentum and should continue focusing on attracting talented filmmakers and creators.
When asked whether Apple plans to expand theatrical releases for its films, Ternus declined to comment directly. He previously attended the premiere of F1, one of Apple's last major films to receive a wide theatrical release.
What's next for Tim Cook
Cook said he has no plans to pursue an acting career.
He briefly appeared in a promotional video for the second season of Severance in 2025 as an employee of Lumon Industries. While he described the experience as fun, he joked that acting is not his calling.
The Ted Lasso premiere also coincided with several milestones for the outgoing Apple CEO. Apple's stock closed at a record high, and Cook is expected to host his 90th and final quarterly earnings call as CEO later this week.
After that, leadership of the company will officially pass to John Ternus.