David Oyelowo, an actor who consistently elevates any project he’s involved in, returns to television with Apple TV+’s new comedy series, “Government Cheese.” The 10-episode season premieres Wednesday, April 16, 2025, launching with a substantial four-episode block before shifting to a weekly release schedule.
The setting is the San Fernando Valley in 1969, a backdrop of sunshine and, let’s be honest, a certain level of absurdity. “Government Cheese” focuses on the Chambers family, whose unconventional life is about to get even more complicated. Hampton Chambers (Oyelowo), the family patriarch, returns home after a stint behind bars, a development unlikely to smooth over any existing family tensions.
Oyelowo is joined by Simone Missick, portraying Hampton’s wife, Astoria. She must navigate the often treacherous terrain of a relationship rekindled after incarceration. As for their sons, Harrison and Einstein, portrayed by Jahi Di’Allo Winston and Evan Ellison respectively, they find themselves caught in the crossfire of their parents’ readjustment.
The supporting cast includes Bokeem Woodbine, Jeremy Bobb, Louis Cancelmi, Julien Heron, Djilali Rez-Kallah, Louis Ferreira, Thomas Beaudoin, Kyle Mac, John Ortiz, and Adam Beach—a diverse and talented ensemble that hints at a show with depth beyond the core family drama. Expect a rich tapestry of quirky characters and intriguing subplots.
“Government Cheese” was created by Paul Hunter and Aeysha Carr, who also share writing, executive producing, and co-showrunning duties. Hunter directs as well, ensuring a consistent comedic vision. Apple TV+ has a reputation for visually striking productions, often featuring a rich level of detail, as seen in “For All Mankind,” or the vibrant, stylized cinematography of “Severance.” “Government Cheese” will likely be no exception.
The series premieres Wednesday, April 16, 2025 on Apple TV+.
