Hulu’s new comedy ‘Mid-Century Modern’ promises laughter and heart

A fresh take on friendship and aging

Hulu has officially greenlit the comedy series Mid-Century Modern, a multi-camera show that promises to bring both laughter and poignant moments to the small screen. The series, which was initially hinted at earlier this year, boasts a stellar cast including Nathan Lane, Matt Bomer, Nathan Lee Graham, and Linda Lavin.

Plot overview: A chosen family in Palm Springs

The storyline centers around three best friends—gay gentlemen of a certain age—who, after an unexpected death, decide to spend their golden years together in Palm Springs. The wealthiest among them lives with his mother, creating a unique dynamic that explores themes of friendship, aging, and the concept of a chosen family. The official logline teases that no matter how tough life gets, there’s always someone around to remind you that “it would be better if you got your neck done.”

Meet the characters

Nathan Lane as Bunny Schneiderman

Bunny is a successful businessman on the brink of retirement. Forever in search of love, Bunny’s journey is as much about self-acceptance as it is about finding a partner. His character promises to bring both humor and depth to the series.

Linda Lavin as Sybil Schneiderman

Sybil, Bunny’s mother, is a complex character whose strengths are also her weaknesses. Wise and caring, yet sometimes critical and smothering, Sybil adds a layer of familial tension and warmth to the show.

Matt Bomer as Jerry Frank

Jerry’s backstory is particularly compelling. Having left the Mormon Church and his marriage in his early 20s after being outed as gay, Jerry is now a “latter-day saint” in the truest sense. Pure of heart, hard of body, and soft of head, Jerry’s character is sure to resonate with many viewers.

Nathan Lee Graham as Arthur

Arthur is a dignified, elegant fashion industry veteran who believes life would be perfect if only he were in charge. His character brings a touch of sophistication and a lot of humor to the series.

Behind the scenes: A powerhouse team

The series was created by Max Mutchnick and David Kohan, who also serve as executive producers. Nathan Lane and Matt Bomer are not just acting in the series but are also executive producers, along with Ryan Murphy and James Burrows. Burrows, a veteran in the comedy genre, directed the pilot episode. The show is produced by 20th Television, ensuring high production values and a polished final product.

Hulu’s comedy lineup

Mid-Century Modern joins Hulu’s impressive roster of original comedies, which includes hits like Only Murders in the Building, Unprisoned, and the animated series Solar Opposites. The streamer is also expanding into the standup comedy space, with plans to launch a new comedy hub on the platform in November.

Personal reflections: Why this show matters

As a fan of both cinema and TV series, Mid-Century Modern strikes me as a refreshing take on the often-overlooked topic of aging within the LGBTQ+ community. The concept of a chosen family is particularly resonant, offering a narrative that many can relate to, regardless of their background. The blend of humor and heartfelt moments promises to make this series a must-watch.

In-depth analysis: The significance of representation

Representation in media is crucial, and Mid-Century Modern is a step in the right direction. By focusing on older gay men, the series fills a gap in mainstream media, offering stories that are both unique and universally relatable. The characters are well-rounded, each bringing their own set of challenges and triumphs, making the show not just entertaining but also meaningful.

Final thoughts

With its stellar cast, compelling storyline, and the powerhouse team behind it, Mid-Century Modern is set to be a standout addition to Hulu’s comedy lineup. Whether you’re a fan of heartfelt comedies or looking for a show that offers both laughs and life lessons, this series is one to keep an eye on.

For more information and to watch the trailer, visit the Mid-Century Modern page.