Before Apple TV+ pulls its cash, check out this first look at Billy Crystal’s new show

Apple TV+ recently caused alarm after it was reported that they would be cracking down on greenlighting as many big-budget dramas moving forward, as well as the ongoing issue that they seem to be allergic to promoting the (very good!) shows they already have on their platform. While we won’t feel the effects of that mandate for a little while, it makes the fact that they are finally debuting legendary performer and producer Billy Crystal’s first real foray into prestige television that much sweeter. 

First announced back in 2022, the six-time Emmy Award and one-time Tony award winner is set to produce and star in Before, an “atmospheric, character-driven psychological thriller.” The show will officially premiere with two episodes on October 25, the streamer announced today. New installments of the 10-episode limited series will follow every Friday until December 20. 

Per its logline, Before “stars Crystal as Eli, a child psychiatrist who, after recently losing his wife, Lynn (Judith Light), encounters a troubled young boy, Noah (Jacobi Jupe), who seems to have a haunting connection to Eli’s past. As Eli attempts to help Noah, their mysterious bond deepens.” Apple TV+’s press release might have also included a light spoiler; they refer to the show as a “supernatural mystery series,” so that “haunting connection” might be a little more than just a metaphor. 

As is clear from the above, the show features a stellar cast. In addition to Crystal, Light, and Jupe, the series is rounded out by Oscar-nominee Rosie Perez, Tony-nominee Maria Dizzia, and Ava Lalezarzadeh. It was created by Sarah Thorp (The Bounty Hunter), who is also serving as showrunner and executive producer. Eric Roth (Killers Of The Flower Moon) is also on board as an EP. 

The streamer released some first-look images from the show as well, which are attached below. Take a look—we may not get as many glimpses as this in the future.

Courtesy of Apple TV+

Courtesy of Apple TV+

Courtesy of Apple TV+

Courtesy of Apple TV+