Show Guide: 'The Institute'

Synopsis: The Institute follows the story of teen genius Luke Ellis (Freeman), who is kidnapped and awakens at The Institute, a facility full of children who all got there the same way he did and who are all possessed of unusual abilities. In a nearby town, haunted former police officer Tim Jamieson (Barnes) has come looking to start a new life, but the peace and quiet won’t last, as his story and Luke’s are destined to collide. (Courtesy MGM+, 2025)

The Cast:
Mary-Louise Parker as Ms. Sigsby
Ben Barnes as Tim Jamieson
Joe Freeman as Luke Ellis
Simone Miller as Kalisha
Fionn Laird as Nick
Hannah Galway as Wendy
Julian Richings as Stackhouse
Robert Joy as Dr. Hendricks
Martin Roach as Chief Ashworth

Production Credits:
The Institute is created and executive produced by Stephen King alongside director and executive producer Jack Bender (Lost, From) and executive producers Benjamin Cavell (Godfather of Harlem, Homeland), Gary Barber (Footloose, The Vow), Sam Sheridan (Homestead), Ed Redlich (The Practice, Unforgettable).

The Episodes:
Season One Episode Guide (MGM+)
1-01

1-02

1-03

1-04 

1-05 Back Half--08/03/2025
Sigsby tricks Luke into confirming he’s TP, forcing him to move up his escape attempt. Meanwhile, Tim’s suspicions put him on the Institute’s radar.

1-06 Run--08/10/2025
As Tim’s investigation pays off in ways he never imagined and Sigsby scrambles to avert disaster, Luke must finally decide who he can trust.

1-07 Hide--08/17/2025
Luke and Tim go on a desperate search for help as Sigsby uses all of her formidable assets in a last-ditch attempt to keep the Institute’s secrets.

1-08 Fight--08/24/2025
Our characters come together for a final confrontation with unimaginable consequences.