Apple TV’s ‘Pluribus’ Premieres at PaleyFest 2026 in Los Angeles

PaleyFest LA 2026 is off to a great start with the Apple TV series Pluribus, where the world’s most miserable person has to save the world from happiness by defeating a hive-mind.

We got to chat with the cast and executive producers/writers Gordon Smith and Jenn Carroll on April 4, just before an exclusive screening and a panel discussion moderated by Yvette Nicole Brown at the Dolby Theatre. The Pluribus team shared their unique perspectives on happiness, influenced by their individual experiences.

Carlos-Manuel Vesga, who plays the principled and stubborn Manousos, shared his view on happiness, defining it as letting go. According to him, happiness means letting go of the ego and coming to terms with the fact that one day, we will not be ourselves anymore, and that’s okay. He believes that accepting this truth can lead to happiness.

Karolina Wydra, who portrays Zosia, echoed a similar sentiment, stating that happiness is about staying present and appreciating the everyday moments. For her, happiness can be found in something as simple as enjoying a sunny day and being fully engaged with all the colors and sounds of nature.

Writer and executive producer Gordon Smith shared a more personal definition, describing happiness as when a cat curls up on your lap, purring just enough before your legs fall asleep. That sweet moment is true happiness for him.

Rhea Seehorn, who leads the series as Carol Sturka, pointed out that happiness is more about having a purpose in life rather than constant bliss. She believes that finding a reason to wake up every day, even if it’s just striving to be a better person, is essential for happiness.

Samba Schutte, who plays Koumba Diabaté, views happiness as contentment, where one feels complete and doesn’t crave anything more. Executive producer Jenn Carroll also highlighted the idea of happiness as a relief from negativity. Smith added that happiness is a complex concept, ranging from a feeling to a set of conditions, and everyone perceives it differently.

The PaleyFest LA 2026 will be ongoing at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood until Sunday, April 12.