Apple TV’s The Hunt finally has a premiere date
The Verge
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Apple’s highly anticipated French-language drama *The Hunt*, produced by Gaumont and directed by Cédric Anger, has finally been given a release date after months of delays due to plagiarism concerns. Originally slated for an earlier premiere, the series was put on hold following allegations that its plot bore striking similarities to Douglas Fairbairn’s 1973 novel *Shoot*, which was also adapted into a 1976 film. Apple has now announced that *The Hunt* will make its debut on March 4th.
The delay began when French reporter Clement Garin highlighted the alleged similarities between *The Hunt* and *Shoot*. Anger had initially pitched the project as an original story, but Garin’s claims prompted a deeper investigation. While Gaumont denied any direct copying, they acknowledged that adjustments were made to address concerns about the plot’s resemblance to the older work. This controversy led to a significant delay in the series’ production and release.
The resolution of this issue marks a pivotal moment for Apple as it continues to expand its original content offerings, particularly in non-English markets. *The Hunt* is part of Apple’s growing focus on French-language programming, reflecting its strategy to cater to diverse global audiences and compete with other major streaming platforms in Europe. The series’ premiere is expected to be a significant event for both Apple and Gaumont, as it aims to showcase their ability to produce compelling, original content despite creative challenges.
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Originally published on The Verge on 2/19/2026