Apple TV Plus has confirmed a new premiere date for the French-language thriller series The Hunt, which was pulled from the streaming service’s schedule just weeks before its original debut. The show will now arrive on March 4, 2026, following the resolution of a plagiarism investigation.
Why The Hunt Was Delayed
The Hunt was originally scheduled to premiere in late November 2025, but Apple abruptly removed it from its release calendar approximately two weeks before launch. Unlike other delayed projects that remained visible on Apple’s press materials, The Hunt was scrubbed entirely from official channels, including the company’s press site and YouTube channel.
Shortly after the removal, reports emerged that Apple and production partner Gaumont had learned of plagiarism allegations involving the series. According to a statement from Gaumont, the project was presented as an original work but was reportedly based on an existing book, Douglas Fairbairn’s Shoot, without proper authorization.
Gaumont stated that upon learning of the issue, the company immediately took steps to identify the rights holders and obtain the necessary authorizations. With those matters now resolved, the series has been cleared for release.
What to Expect From The Hunt
The Hunt is a tense thriller starring Benoît Magimel and Mélanie Laurent. The series follows Franck and his friends, who regularly spend weekends hunting together. During one outing, they encounter another group of hunters who begin targeting them without explanation. After one member of Franck’s group is shot, they retaliate, and one of the attackers is injured. The friends escape and agree to keep the incident secret.
As Franck attempts to return to normal life with his wife Krystel, he begins to suspect that he and his friends are being watched and tracked by the rival hunters, who now appear intent on revenge.
Cast and Production
The series features performances by Benoît Magimel and Mélanie Laurent, two prominent French actors. Gaumont serves as the production company, working in partnership with Apple TV Plus to bring the series to subscribers.
Apple TV Plus Availability and Pricing
The Hunt will be available exclusively on Apple TV Plus when it premieres on March 4, 2026. The streaming service is priced at $12.99 per month as a standalone subscription, though it can also be accessed at a discounted rate through the Apple One bundle, which includes other Apple services such as Apple Music, iCloud Plus, and Apple Arcade.
FAQ
Q: Why was The Hunt delayed from its original release date?
A: The series was delayed after Apple and producer Gaumont learned of plagiarism allegations. The show was reportedly based on an existing work without proper authorization. Gaumont has since obtained the necessary rights.
Q: When will The Hunt premiere on Apple TV Plus?
A: The Hunt is scheduled to premiere on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, approximately three months after its originally planned release date.
Q: Is The Hunt part of Apple TV Plus or available elsewhere?
A: The Hunt is an Apple TV Plus exclusive and will only be available on that platform. A subscription is required to stream the series.
MacReview Verdict
The three-month delay of The Hunt underscores the complexities of content production and intellectual property management in the streaming era. While the last-minute removal was unusual for Apple, Gaumont’s swift action to resolve the rights issue suggests a commitment to proper licensing and legal compliance. With strong performances from established French actors and a suspenseful premise, The Hunt has the potential to resonate with Apple TV Plus subscribers who appreciate international thrillers. The March 4 premiere date gives Apple a notable addition to its spring content slate, and the series may help broaden the platform’s appeal among viewers seeking non-English language programming.
