5 Underrated Hulu Originals You Need To Watch

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Hulu has become known for its unique shows in the competitive world of streaming, and some of its best content is surprisingly under the radar. Unlike other platforms that focus on big, established franchises, Hulu consistently chooses projects that are creatively daring and experiment with new storytelling approaches. This willingness to support innovative ideas and push boundaries has earned Hulu a reputation as a champion for original voices.

Hulu frequently prioritizes originality over sticking to proven formulas, and this approach has surprisingly led to widespread popularity. While shows like The Handmaid’s Tale are hugely successful and award-winning, and their collaboration with FX has created many critically praised series, Hulu also fosters a wide range of lesser-known but still successful programs.

Despite receiving critical acclaim, these shows haven’t yet gained the same broad popularity as Hulu’s more famous series, even though they’re just as good, or even better. Hulu supports these lesser-known shows, giving their creators the freedom to tell stories in unique and imaginative ways – whether by mixing genres or taking on ambitious projects. This allows for a lot of creative control in a more focused environment.

Many of Hulu’s lesser-known original shows are surprisingly well-written, feature strong acting, and connect with viewers on a deeper level. Despite their quality, these shows often get overlooked because Hulu releases so much new content, competing with other streaming services. These quieter programs frequently feel innovative, daring, and uniquely intimate.

As a huge movie and TV fan, I’ve found that Hulu has some real gems beyond the shows everyone talks about. These series really show how committed they are to giving unique and creative storytellers a platform. It’s cool to see they’re backing innovative shows, even if they aren’t always the most popular – some of the most captivating TV is just waiting to be discovered if you dig a little deeper!

Nine Perfect Strangers

1 Season

Image via Hulu

Based on the book by Liane Moriarty, Nine Perfect Strangers is a compelling drama with one season already released and another on the way. The show centers around Masha, a somewhat unusual wellness retreat director, played by Nicole Kidman. With a talented cast including Melissa McCarthy and Regina Hall, the series is particularly strong and engaging.

As a big TV fan, I was totally hooked by the first season of Nine Perfect Strangers. It really drew you in with its intriguing look at these characters. Now, the show is switching things up and becoming an anthology series with a brand new cast for season two, which is interesting, but it’s hard to forget how powerfully the first season connected with viewers. It managed to be funny and genuinely moving at the same time, creating this really unique and strangely relatable world.

Candy

1 Season

Hulu’s 2022 limited series, Candy, starring Jessica Biel, is a captivating watch. The show is based on the true story of Candy Montgomery and the 1980 murder of Betty Gore (played by Melanie Lynskey). It delves into the events surrounding the crime and the lives of the people in their small Texas community.

The film Candy has been praised for its acting and skillful direction. It tells a realistic story, focusing on the inner lives of its characters. Instead of exaggerating events, the movie explores the complex emotions of Candy’s everyday life, and Lynskey’s performance as Betty adds significant emotional depth.

The Great

3 Seasons

The comedic drama The Great, starring Elle Fanning as Catherine the Great, was consistently praised by critics. Elle Fanning and Nicholas Hoult, who played both Emperor Peter III and his look-alike, Yemelyan Pugachev, had fantastic chemistry. The show’s three seasons were consistently well-made, visually striking, and successful without being overly dramatic.

Blending witty satire, historical storytelling, and a contemporary perspective, The Great is a quick-paced and often hilarious show, even as it subverts expectations. Strong comedic acting and well-developed characters give Elle Fanning, Nicholas Hoult, and the entire cast a fantastic foundation to build upon.

How To Die Alone

1 Season

Natasha Rothwell’s comedy series, How To Die Alone, has been praised for being both funny and emotionally resonant. Although Hulu didn’t renew it for a second season after just one, the show has quickly become popular with both Rothwell’s fans and Hulu viewers. The story centers on Melissa, a 37-year-old who works at JFK airport and begins to re-evaluate her life after a close call.

Kate Rothwell shines in How To Die Alone, delivering a heartfelt and funny performance that truly highlights her talent as both an actress and a writer. Despite the show’s unfortunately short run, it’s a compelling and worthwhile watch thanks to Rothwell’s exceptional storytelling.

Tell Me Lies

2 Seasons

Hulu’s drama series, Tell Me Lies, is based on the popular novel of the same name. The show is known for its shocking twists and complicated relationships, and currently has two seasons available with another one coming soon. It follows the intense connection between Lucy Albright (Grace Van Patten) and Stephen DeMarco (Jackson White).

Hulu’s Tell Me Lies is a compelling, yet often overlooked, show that delves into themes of obsession, control, and the emotional consequences of toxic relationships. Its story unfolds in a non-traditional way, building suspense and adding layers of emotional complexity. The show’s intriguing psychological elements and focus on a complicated romance make it a truly captivating watch.

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2025-11-27 21:19