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Offering an eclectic mix of popular network hits and more obscure hidden gems, the best TV shows on Hulu form a great collection. Including properties from 20th Century Studios, Searchlight Pictures, Disney Television Studios, ABC, Freeform, and FX Networks, as well as original programming, Hulu provides an impressively diverse slate of TV shows. As a result, there's something to suit every taste, whatever a viewer might be in the mood for.
Some of the most impressive series in Hulu's roster include award-winning, critically lauded shows. Hits like Gravity Falls and The Handmaid’s Tale not only demonstrate the quality of content available but also the range. Hulu also makes room for creative new content by hosting series like Reservation Dogs and The Patient, which often showcase either overlooked or unusual premises. Consequently, Hulu's top shows mark the streaming service out as a home for interesting, innovative content.
For more TV streaming recommendations, be sure to check out the best TV shows on Max and the best TV shows on Peacock.
Related: The 50 Best Movies On Hulu
Best Comedy TV Shows On Hulu
Breeders (2020-2023)
Available Seasons: 4 | Cast: Martin Freeman (Paul), Daisy Haggard (Ally)
Episode Runtime: 22-33 minutes
A pitch-black comedy about the psychological complexities of parenthood, Breeders is a refreshing and alternative look at one of life's defining experiences. Freeman and Haggard star as a husband and wife, struggling with anger issues, emotional trauma, and the growing chasm between the pair. Partially based on Freeman's own experiences, the show uses razor-sharp gallows humor to add poignant insight in a way that's both sympathetic and slightly horrifying. Consequently, Breeders is a comedy series with real edge.
King Of The Hill (1997-)
Available Seasons: 13 | Cast: Mike Judge (Hank Rutherford Hill), Kathy Najimy (Peggy Hill), Pamela Adlon (Bobby Hill), Johnny Hardwick (Dale Gribble)
Episode Runtime: 20-22 minutes
Co-created by Beavis & Butthead's Mike Judge, King of the Hill is a much more grounded animated comedy than many of its contemporaries. However, although the show centers on a very typical, if eccentric American family, there is nothing ordinary about this acclaimed series. Centering on family patriarch Hank, King of the Hill follows the titular Hill family as they navigate everyday difficulties and situations, looking at things like school and puberty through a comedic lens. Funny, heartfelt, and authentic, King of the Hill is one of the most popular animated comedies of the past 25 years.
Happy Endings (2011-2013)
Available Seasons: 3 | Cast: Elisha Cuthbert (Jane Williams), Zachary Knighton (Dave Rose), Damon Wayans Jr. (Brad Williams)
Episode Runtime: 22-25 minutes
Perhaps canceled before its time, Happy Endings' arrival on Hulu is helping to secure the series' impressive legacy. The show's premise sees Dave (Zachary Knighton) getting left at the altar by Alex (Elisha Cuthbert), leading the pair to try and keep their friend group together despite the awkwardness. The focus on 30-something friends living in a big city and dealing with relationships certainly isn't unique, but the ensemble is terrific, and the cringe-worthy catalyst makes for a hilarious sitcom that deserves more acclaim.
Archer (2009 - Present)
Available Seasons: 14 | Cast: H. Jon Benjamin (Sterling Archer), Judy Greer (Cheryl Tunt), Amber Nash (Pam Poovey), Chris Parnell (Cyril Figgis), Aisha Tyler (Lana Kane), Jessica Walter (Malory Archer)
Episode Runtime: 18-24 minutes
Adult animated series Archer takes the workplace sitcom and gives it a spy setting. The show centers on the titular spy, a cocky womanizer who works for ISIS (International Secret Intelligence Service), whose abusive mother Malory (Jessica Walter) is the agency's director. More of an exaggeration of James Bond than a parody, Archer is still going strong after 14 seasons thanks to its whip-smart wit and talented voice cast.
Broad City (2014-2019)
Available Seasons: 5 | Cast: Ilana Glazer (Ilana), Abbi Jacobson (Abbi)
Episode Runtime: 22 minutes
Responsible for introducing the mainstream to the wonderful comedic duo of Ilana Glazer and Abbi Jacobson, Broad City turns traditional sitcom fare into chaos. The show follows two best friends as they live their awkward and hilarious lives as two young women in the big city. The show leans into the big personalities of the characters and the bizarre humor of Glazer and Jacobson, but is fundamentally a surprisingly charming show about friendship that still makes viewers laugh out loud.
Freaks And Geeks (1999-2000)
Available Seasons: 1 | Cast: James Franco (Daniel Desario), Seth Rogen (Ken Miller), Jason Segel (Nick Andopolis), Linda Cardellini (Lindsay Weir)
Episode Runtime: 44 minutes
A cult classic that has been credited with kickstarting a number of early 2000s comedy trends, Freaks and Geeks' short length belies its impact. The dramedy only aired for 12 episodes, despite 18 being filmed. After its cancelation, however, it achieved near-mythical status and is currently one of the best Hulu shows available for streaming. The series follows Apatow mainstays Seth Rogen, Jason Segel, Becky Ann Baker, and many more, as their characters navigate high school in their respective social groups. Freak and Geeks won numerous awards despite its early cancelation and was the stepping stone for comedy in the 2010s to be dominated by Apatow and his crew.
Related: The 10 Best Reality Shows On Hulu, According To IMDb
The Bear (2022-Present)
Available Seasons: 2 | Cast: Jeremy Allen White (Carmen), Ebon Moss-Bachrach (Ritchie), Ayo Edebiri (Sydney), Lionel Boyce (Marcus Brooks)
Episode Runtime: 20-47 minutes
A Hulu original that' proved a major critical hit for the service, The Bear is a black comedy-drama about a classically trained chef (Jeremy Allen White) who has to return to his hometown in Chicago to help run the family restaurant. White, in one of his best roles, won a SAG and a Golden Globe for Best Actor for his work, and the series cemented its status with a stellar season 2. The often spiky atmosphere between the uninterested chefs in the restaurant and White’s driven Carmy Berzatto is a delight to watch. The Bear is a funny and inspiring antidote to the self-serious Chef’s Table-like shows that have become ubiquitous in food programming.
Arrested Development (2003-2019)
Available Seasons: 3 | Cast: Jason Bateman (Michael Bluth), Portia de Rossi (Lindsay Bluth), Will Arnett (Bob Bluth)
Episode Runtime: 22-48 minutes
Though never a ratings hit, Arrested Development is widely seen as one of the funniest shows on television. The show follows the Bluth family whose housing development business begins to fall apart along with the family itself when their patriarch is arrested for "light treason." With Arrested Development's main cast fully embracing the show's ridiculous nature and with clever foreshadowing and running gags, the show is endlessly rewatchable and one of the best TV shows in any genre.
New Girl (2011-2018)
Available Seasons: 7 | Cast: Zooey Deschanel (Jess Day), Jake Johnson (Nick Miller), Max Greenfield (Winston Schmidt)
Episode Runtime: 22 minutes
Gentle, frequently hilarious, and available on Hulu in its entirety, New Girl is another terrific sitcom perfect for binging. The show stars Zooey Deschanel as Jessica Day, a bubbly and optimistic young woman who, following a breakup, moves in with three men. It is another show that benefits from its incredible cast with Jake Johnson, Max Greenfield, and Lamorne Morris rounding out the winning ensemble. New Girl gained a huge following over the seven years it aired, and its arrival on Hulu should help maintain its understandable popularity.
Key & Peele (2012-2015)
Available Seasons: 5 | Cast: Keegan-Michael Key, Jordan Peele
Episode Runtime: 21-22 minutes
Representing a revival of the classic sketch comedy show format, Key & Peele is the perfect showcase for its creators' talents. The razor-sharp observational skills of both Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele has led to some of the most meme-worthy content in recent memory – from dysarthric substitute teachers to flamboyantly-named college football players. What really makes Key & Peele stand apart, however, is the show's singular ability to satirize and highlight pressing issues in American society, alongside all the silliness.
Malcolm In The Middle (2000-2006)
Number of Seasons: 7 | Cast: Frankie Muniz (Malcolm), Jane Kaczmarek (Lois), Bryan Cranston (Hal)
Episode Runtime: 21-23 minutes
One of the most inventive and acclaimed sitcoms to come out of the late 1990s, Malcolm in the Middle still holds up today. The show stars Frankie Muniz as Malcolm, the middle child in a dysfunctional middle-class family who feels variously embarrassed, terrified, and annoyed with his eccentric and volatile family members. The show took a messier look at the sitcom family that felt grounded and more chaotic while still featuring outlandish humor that worked so well.
It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia (2005-)
Available Seasons: 16 | Cast: Charlie Day (Charlie Kelly), Glenn Howerton (Dennis Reynolds), Rob McElhenney (Mac)
Episode Runtime: 22 minutes
Starting out as a low-budget and little-seen sitcom with a nasty bite to its humor, it is slightly surprising that It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia has grown into one of the longest-running shows around. The comedy follows the self-centered, morally irredeemable, and destructive owners of a bar in Philadelphia who makes the lives of those around them worse with their antics and schemes. The show has always embraced topical subjects while maintaining a silly and chaotic tone thanks to the hilarious main characters. Its continued success and deserved critical acclaim easily make It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia among the best shows found on Hulu.
Frasier (1993-2004)
Available Seasons: 11 | Cast: Kelsey Grammer (Fraser Crane), David Hyde Pierce (Niles Crane), John Mahoney (Martin Crane)
Episode Runtime: 22 minutes
It is rare for a TV spinoff to find success, but Frasier matches and even surpasses Cheers in the opinion of many fans. The show picks up with Frasier Crane (Kelsey Grammer) moving to Seattle where he reunites with his even more uptight and cultured brother Niles (David Hyde Pierce) and his gruff father (John Mahoney), who provides a stark contrast with the two petty and snobbish brothers. Frasier was an intelligent and sophisticated sitcom that still had plenty of fun and laughs with tried and tested genre tropes.
M*A*S*H (1972-1983)
Available Seasons: 11 | Cast: Alan Alda (Hawkeye Pierce), Loretta Swit (Margaret Houlihan), McLean Stevenson (Henry Blake)
Episode Runtime: 22 minutes
The fact that M*A*S*H took a setting as seemingly unfunny as the Korean War and turned it into one of the most popular sitcoms of all time speaks to its immense quality. The series focuses on a military medical outpost and the various personalities stationed there. M*A*S*H's genius was its ability to portray the life-and-death stakes in an active warzone, yet still show its beloved cast of characters as human beings who made jokes, got up to silly shenanigans, and had romances. It made for a ground-breaking show that could blend tones effortlessly and effectively.
Cheers (1982-1993)
Available Seasons: 4 | Cast: Ted Danson (Sam Malone), Shelley Long (Diane Chambers), Rhea Perlman (Carla Tortelli)
Episode Runtime: 22 minutes
Along with Frasier, Cheers' availability on Hulu completes one of the greatest sitcom double-acts in television history. Deceptively simple in setup, the show follows the patrons and employees of a Boston sports bar as they unwind and socialize. While its premise and setting are far less ambitious than many other sitcoms, Cheers found its audience thanks to its brilliantly sharp writing. From the pitch-perfect first episode, Cheers knew how to use its collection of memorable characters to construct well-written, believable scenarios that were as smart as they were funny.
Dave (2020-)
Available Seasons: 3 | Cast: Dave Burd (Dave), GaTa (GaTa), Andrew Santino (Mike)
Episode Runtime: 24-32 minutes
One of the strangest and funniest shows on Hulu, Dave follows the surreal misadventures of its title star (Dave Burd), a neurotic white suburban man who is convinced that he is destined to be the world's greatest rapper. Seeing this awkward yet oddly confident character force himself into the world of celebrities and fame is great fun and filled with hilarious moments, while the series' impressive cameos help it stand out from the crowd. Dave's consistently positive critical reception proves that there's more to the show than genital humor and questionable rapping.
Adventure Time (2010-2018)
Available Seasons: 10 | Cast: Jeremy Shada (Finn), John DiMaggio (Jake), Hynden Walch (Princess Bubblegum), Tom Kenny (The Ice King), Olivia Olson (Marceline The Vampire)
Episode Runtime: 11 minutes
Following the psychedelic adventures of self-described heroes Finn the Human and Jake the Dog in the Land of Ooo, Adventure Time is a cult hit whose popularity spans generations. The winner of eight Primetime Emmys, one Peabody, two British Academy Children's Awards, and nominated for so much more, Adventure Time is a crowning achievement in Western animation and storytelling. Underneath the clever absurdity and colorful action of Adventure Time lie clues about the fantastical mysteries of Ooo, post-apocalyptic and fantasy-inspired lore, and some of the most relatable surreal characters in animation history. Consequently, Adventure Time is one of the best Hulu shows for adults and children alike.
The Great (2020-2023)
Available Seasons: 3 | Cast: Elle Fanning (Catherine), Nicholas Hoult (Peter), Phoebe Fox (Marial)
Episode Runtime: 55-61 minutes
Though The Great's historical inaccuracies are obvious from the get-go, this fun and funny period piece embraces its eccentricity in such a way that its embellishments become its greatest strength. The show tells a version of the story of Catherine the Great (Elle Fanning), a young woman who is plucked out of rural life in the 18th century to be married off to the emperor of Russia (Nicholas Hoult). Both Fanning and Hoult bring wit and charm to their historical characters while leading this entertaining and captivating look at this empowering woman.
Related: Best LGBTQ+ TV Shows On Hulu Right Now
Gravity Falls (2012-2016)
Available Seasons: 2 | Cast: Jason Ritter (Grunkle Stan), Kristen Schaal (Mabel Pine), Linda Cardellini (Wendy)
Episode Runtime: 20-44 minutes
Originally created for the Disney Channel by Alex Hirsch, Gravity Falls is an epic mystery adventure series that won a string of awards during its initial run. The show follows brother and sister Dipper and Mabel Pines as they unravel the mystery at the heart of the strange town of Gravity Falls alongside their great-uncle Stan. Considered one of the most influential and important children’s animated shows in recent memory, Gravity Falls maintains an impressive 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes years after its release. The show is designed for children but the intelligent humor and supernatural mystery make it an intriguing adventure for viewers of all ages.
What We Do In The Shadows (2019-)
Available Seasons: 5 | Cast: Kayvan Novak (Nandor), Matt Berry (Laszlo), Natasia Demetriou (Nadia)
Episode Runtime: 22-30 minutes
Based on the hilarious mockumentary movie of the same name, What We Do in the Shadows follows the lives of a group of vampires living together in Staten Island. The show follows their struggle to make vampirism work within modern American society, their encounters with various other ghoulish creatures, and the tensions caused by living together under one roof. The show is a clever look at the mythology of vampires while also showcasing hilarious and lovable characters that make What We Do In The Shadows a riot and a worthy supplement to the celebrated movie.
Reservation Dogs (2021-Present)
Number of Seasons: 3 | Cast: Devery Jacobs (Elora Danan), D'Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai (Bear Smallhill), Lane Factor (Cheese), Paulina Alexis (Willi Jack)
Episode Runtime: 25-30 minutes
A coming-of-age story that spotlights one of the most underrepresented groups in mainstream entertainment, Reservation Dogs provides welcome relief from typical teen comedies. Featuring Indigenous writers and directors, along with a cast made up of nearly all Indigenous actors, the series follows a group of four friends in rural Oklahoma as they dream of running away to California, all while dealing with the stresses of growing up. For its hilarious and unique takes on the social realities of reservation life, Reservation Dogs won the Peabody Award for Entertainment in 2022, alongside two Independent Spirit Awards, and was named by the American Film Institute as one of the Top 10 Programs of the Year.
Modern Family (2009-2020)
Available Seasons: 11 | Cast: Ed O'Neill (Jay Pritchett), Sofía Vergara (Gloria Delgado-Pritchett), Julie Bowen (Claire Dunphy), Ty Burrell (Phil Dunphy), Jesse Tyler Ferguson (Michael Pritchett), Eric Stonestreet (Cameron Tucker)
Episode Runtime: 20-24 minutes
Although Modern Family's documentary-style camera work was nothing new, the hit comedy nonetheless manages to be completely original thanks to its colorful characters and domestic setting. An ensemble cast of Julie Bowen, Sofia Vergara, Ed O’Neil, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Eric Stonestreet, and Ty Burrell star as branches of a family as they live their day-to-day lives. Focusing on and celebrating each family member's individuality allows Modern Family to revel in creating chaotic, hilarious situations, without losing sight of the warm heart that makes the show such an enjoyable viewing experience.
Abbott Elementary (2021-Present)
Available Seasons: 2 | Cast: Quinta Brunson (Janine Teagues), Tyler James Williams (Gregory Eddie), Janelle James (Ava Coleman)
Episode Runtime: 22 minutes
A prime example of how the mockumentary format is fertile ground for comedy, Abbott Elementary is an acclaimed sitcom that follows the lives of the teachers at an underfunded Philadelphia elementary school. Quinta Brunson plays Janine Teagues, an optimistic teacher looking to make the best out of the poor resources of the school and improve her personal life at the same time. Nominated for seven Emmy Awards, Abbott Elementary uses humor to critique the public school system of the United States and is an original spin on what a workplace comedy can be. Its nods to classic Philadelphia institutions make it a must-watch for subscribers along the East Coast of the USA and one of the best comedy TV shows on Hulu.
Schitt’s Creek (2015-2020)
Available Seasons: 6 | Cast: Eugene Levy (Johnny Rose), Catherine O'Hara (Moira Rose), Daniel Levy (David Rose), Annie Murphy (Alexis Rose)
Episode Runtime: 22-42 minutes
One of the most heartwarming comedy hits of recent years, Schitt’s Creek chronicles the fall and redemption of the affluent Rose family as they're forced to rebuild their lives. An innovative take on the classic fish-out-of-water trope, the show's comedy comes from the Rose's wealthy sensibilities bumping against the down-to-earth and provincial citizens of a small town. Schitt’s Creek swept the comedy acting awards during the 72nd Emmy ceremony, winning nine in total. As such, it's easily a can't-miss show for viewers looking for a joyous modern take on classic comedy.
Letterkenny (2016-Present)
Available Seasons: 11 | Cast: Jared Keeso (Wayne), Nathan Dales (Daryl), Michelle Mylett (Katy), K. Trevor Wilson (Squirrelly Dan)
Episode Runtime: 19-30 minutes
With the exception of Trailer Park Boys, Canadian sitcoms are generally sweet, wholesome, and heartwarming, with Schitt's Creek as a prime example. Enter: Letterkenny. Premiering on Canadian airwaves in 2016 and on Hulu in the US in 2018, Letterkenny takes place in the fictional rural Ontario town and chronicles the day-to-day happenings of its locals. The show is irreverent and silly and full of "dude humor", though unlike other shows with a similar comedy style, it never punches down. In fact, Letterkenny has been praised for its inclusion of fully-rounded First Nations characters. The main Letterkenny cast has a distinctly relatable, Canadian charm, and it's easy to see why viewers have wanted to hang out with them for 11 seasons and counting.
Atlanta (2016-2022)
Available Seasons: 4 | Cast: Donald Glover (Earnest Marks), Brian Tyree Henry (Alfred Miles), LaKeith Stanfield (Darius), Zazie Beetz (Vanessa Kiefer)
Episode Runtime: 22-39 minutes
Created by and starring Donald Glover, Atlanta is a dark fairy-tale and comedy-drama that follows college dropout and music manager Earn (Glover) as he tries to make it big. The show is only partially interested in following that plotline, however, and much of Atlanta is told through short anthology-style stories rather than an overarching narrative. Through this fresh, unorthodox structure, Atlanta examines themes of race, class, America, and existentialism. It’s a unique story only Glover could tell, and his efforts have earned him multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nods. It's inarguably one of the best TV shows on Hulu for audiences looking for something out of the ordinary.
Bob's Burgers (2011-Present)
Available Seasons: 14 | Cast: H. Jon Benjamin (Bob Belcher), Dan Mintz (Tina Belcher), Eugene Mirman (Gene Belcher)
Episode Runtime: 22 minutes
Among the many great animated series on Hulu, Bob's Burgers is perhaps one of the most underrated, yet undeniably brilliant. The show follows the oddball Belcher family as they run their small and struggling burger joint while trying to keep their madcap members together. The show's easy sense of humor and likable wacky characters have helped it develop a passionate following, and even led to a feature film in 2022.
30 Rock (2006-2013)
Available Seasons: 7 | Cast: Tina Fey (Liz Lemon), Alec Baldwin (Jack Donaghy), Tracy Morgan (Tracy Jordan)
Episode Runtime: 22 minutes
Few sitcoms can compete with the sheer amount of jokes and gags that make it into a single episode of 30 Rock. The show stars Tina Fey as the creator of late night comedy show who has to deal with an out-of-control comedian (Tracy Morgan), a vain and neurotic star (Jane Krakowski), and her corporate-minded boss (Alec Baldwin). While 30 Rock initially seemed somewhat grounded and normal, it soon embraced an outlandish and cartoonish style that makes it one of the funniest shows on television, and subsequently one of the strongest sitcoms available on Hulu.
The Golden Girls (1985-1992)
Available Seasons: 7 | Cast: Bea Arthur (Dorothy Zbornak), Betty White (Rose Nylund), Rue McClanahan (Blanche Devereaux), Estelle Getty (Sophia Petrillo)
Episode Runtime: 22 minutes
Another classic comedy that consistently delivers laughs, The Golden Girls remains a genre icon long after its initial release. The fun-loving show follows four friends who still find humor, love, and most importantly fun in their later years. Beyond the cleverly constructed comedy, the show was really a series about friendship – explaining why it engenders such warm feelings among fans. Boasting a lovable cast of characters who have each become sitcom icons, The Golden Girls set the standard for female-led sitcoms.
Best Drama TV Shows On Hulu
Fleishman Is In Trouble (2022)
Available Seasons: 1 | Cast: Jesse Eisenberg (Dr. Toby Fleishman), Claire Danes (Rachel), Lizzy Caplan (Libby Epstein)
Episode Runtime: 43-67 minutes
A frenetic, paranoid, and honest look at midlife crises and relationships, Fleishman is in Trouble is an unorthodox romantic drama that delivers real emotional impact. Jesse Eisenberg stars as a 40-something Jewish doctor who is left juggling his children, personal life, and career when his wife unexpectedly goes missing. However, while he is initially angry and confused at his wife's seemingly unjustifiable behavior, it soon becomes clear that more is going on underneath the surface. Emotionally and psychologically nuanced, Fleishman is in Trouble was praised critically, especially for the chemistry between its leads.
Welcome To Chippendales (2023)
Available Seasons: 1 | Cast: Kumail Nanjiani (Somen "Steve" Banerjee), Murray Bartlett (Nick De Noia), Annaleigh Ashford (Irene Banerjee), Juliette Lewis (Denise Coughlan)
Episode Runtime: 39-46 minutes
Miniseries are the perfect medium for "truth is stranger than fiction" stories, and Welcome to Chippendales is no exception. The series centers on Somen "Steve" Banerjee (Kumail Nanjiani), an Indian immigrant pursuing the American Dream. Steve opens the world-famous Chippendales, the largest and first male strip joint, with business partner Nick De Noia (Murray Bartlett), which ends in the murder of the latter. Flashy and bombastic, Welcome to Chippendales is a bit style over substance, but Nanjiani, known for his comedic work in Silicon Valley and The Big Sick, is equal parts dazzling and horrifying as Banerjee.
Scandal (2012-2018)
Available Seasons: 7 | Cast: Kerry Washington (Olivia Pope), Darby Stanchfield (Abigail "Abby" Whelan), Katie Lowes (Quinn Perkins), Tony Goldwyn (Fitzgerald "Fitz" Thomas Grant III)
Episode Runtime: 43 minutes
As its title suggests, Scandal is a gripping deep-dive into the salaciousness that sits just below the surface in American politics. Partially based on the experiences of real-life figure Judy Smith, the show follows Kerry Washington's Olivia Pope and her crisis management firm as they battle complex cases and put out fires across Washington D.C. The show is joyously sordid and revels in its thrilling premise, making it a compelling watch across its seven seasons. With an impressive critical performance across its run, Scandal is a hugely enjoyable political procedural drama.
This Is Us (2016-2022)
Available Seasons: 6 | Cast: Milo Ventimiglia (Jack Pearson), Mandy Moore (Rebecca), Sterling K. Brown (Randall Pearson)
Episode Runtime: 42 minutes
Both life-affirming and devastating This is Us has a well-earned reputation as the biggest tearjerker on television. Cleverly told in different time periods, This Is Us examines the struggles, tragedies, and connections between a trio of siblings, the Randalls. The talented ensemble of actors helps to make these stories all the more emotional and impactful while still being a heartwarming multigenerational tale of a family's journey.
Pam & Tommy (2022)
Available Seasons: 1 | Cast: Lily James (Pamela Anderson), Sebastian Stan (Tommy Lee), Seth Rogen (Rand Gauthier), Nick Offerman (Uncle Miltie), Taylor Schilling (Erica Gauthier)
Episode Runtime: 32-51 minutes
From Dumb Money and I, Tonya director Craig Gillespie comes Pam & Tommy, a miniseries about the relationship between Baywatch icon Pamela Anderson (Lily James) and Mötley Crüe drummer Tommy Lee (Sebastian Stan), and the theft of their personal sex tape that rocked the world and ultimately led to the destruction of their marriage and Anderson's career. Like its subjects, Pam & Tommy isn't without its controversy, as the real-life Anderson has criticized the creators for exploiting her trauma without her consent, and some critics believe it capitalizes on the voyeurism it's purporting to condemn. However, the miniseries boldly holds an unflattering mirror up to the society who put Anderson on a pedestal and cruelly knocked her off it, and James in particular stuns in her fully realized performance as Anderson.
Dopesick (2021)
Available Seasons: 1 | Cast: Michael Keaton (Dr. Samuel Finnix), Peter Sarsgaard (Rick Mountcastle), Michael Stuhlbarg (Richard Sackler), Will Poulter (Billy Cutler), John Hoogenakker (Randy Ramseyer), Kaitlyn Dever (Betsy Mallum), Rosario Dawson (Bridget Meyer)
Episode Runtime: 57-65 minutes
The opioid epidemic in the United States is very real, and has been the subject of many films, TV shows, and documentaries. One of the very best is Dopesick, which shows the origins of OxyContin and the devastation across America that Big Pharma caused. In the miniseries, that devastation is especially seen in a small Virginia mining town where Dr. Samuel Finnix (Michael Keaton) begins prescribing the painkiller to his patients and sees the effects of its addictiveness firsthand. Keaton gives an electric performance that won him both an Emmy and SAG award, the latter of which he dedicated to his nephew, who passed away from an opioid overdose. This was a very personal project for Keaton, and its important story will feel the same to many viewers.
Friday Night Lights (2006-2011)
Available Seasons: 5 | Cast: Kyle Chandler (Eric Taylor), Connie Britton (Tami Taylor), Taylor Kitsch (Tim Riggins)
Episode Runtime: 44 minutes
Also available on streaming services such as Netflix, Friday Night Lights is an inspiring, thrilling, and heartwarming sports story tailor-made for the small screen. Kyle Chandler stars as Coach Taylor, a charismatic leader charged with leading a high school football team in a small Texas town where success on the field is everything. The series follows Taylor and the players on and off the field as they seek to be the best in the sport while also realizing that there's more to life than football. Triumphant and enjoyable melodramatic, Friday Night Lights also helped launch the careers of future stars like Michael B. Jordan and Taylor Kitsch.
The Americans (2013-2018)
Available Seasons: 6 | Cast: Keri Russell (Elizabeth Jennings), Matthew Rhys (Phillip Jennings), Maximiliano Hernández (Chris Amador), Holly Taylor (Paige Jennings)
Episode Runtime: 45-90 minutes
A gripping tale of espionage at the height of Cold War tensions, The Americans is a taut and tense period drama. Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys star as a pair of KGB agents living undercover in the United States. The couple goes about living daily normal lives, all the while withholding their dangerous secret. Russell and Rhys lead an ensemble cast of talented actors who often have to play two variations of the same character in the constantly changing world of surveillance and global conflict, which in turn serve as allegories for the show's crumbling relationships. Not only has The Americans won four of its 18 Emmy nominations, but it's also the first series since Breaking Bad to win two Peabody Awards, underlining its credentials as one of the best dramas on Hulu.
Normal People (2020)
Available Seasons: 1 | Cast: Daisy-Edgar Jones (Marianne), Paul Mescal (Connell)
Episode Runtime: 23-34 minutes
Romantic and seductive in equal measure, Normal People is an acclaimed limited series based on the Sally Rooney novel of the same name. Telling the story of Marianne and Connell, the show chronicles the pair's relationship through high school and university as they come together, fall apart, and ultimately grow up. Normal People gives an honest and often painful look at young relationships and identity crises, without ever shying away from the intense emotion involved. The show received four Emmy nominations in 2020 and the performances of Daisy Edgar-Jones and Paul Mescal attracted widespread critical praise.
The Dropout (2022)
Available Seasons: 1 | Cast: Amanda Seyfried (Elizabeth Holmes), Naveen Andrews (Sunny Balwani)
Episode Runtime: 45-55 minutes
Based on a shocking true story, The Dropout is a shocking Hulu original biopic that sometimes seems stranger than fiction. Amanda Seyfried plays Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes, a performance that expertly evokes the deep-voiced, nervous, and theatrical entrepreneur. Seyfried won an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie and her transformation into a character now known the world over is an impressive feat. The drama and comedy of The Dropout don’t always mesh well, but Seyfried’s performance centers the swirling and anxiety-inducing action.
The Handmaid's Tale (2017-Present)
Available Seasons: 5 | Cast: Elisabeth Moss (June Osborne), Joseph Fiennes (Commander Wateford), Yvonne Strahovski (Serena Waterford), Alexis Bledel (Dr. Emily Malek)
Episode Runtime: 41-65 minutes
Based on the novel of the same name, The Handmaid’s Tale is a post-apocalyptic original series by Hulu that's become one of the most popular shows on television. The show takes place after a fictional second American Civil War, which leads to a dystopia where men are the ruling class and women are strictly controlled – especially regarding bodily autonomy. The Handmaid's Tale not only secured 15 Primetime Emmys, but is the first Hulu original series to win a major award. While the series can be uncomfortable and upsetting, it is also thought-provoking, and the struggling humans at the center of the story make The Handsmaid's Tale one of the best shows Hulu has available in any genre.
Tiny Beautiful Things (2023)
Available Seasons: 1 | Cast: Kathryn Hahn (Clare Pierce)
Episode Runtime: 26-32 minutes
Tiny Beautiful Things is a miniseries based on the book of the same name by Wild author Cheryl Strayed. Based on Strayed's real-life experience, this Hulu series sees struggling writer Clare Pierce (Kathryn Hahn) become a successful advice columnist despite the tumultuousness of her own personal life. Like Wild, Tiny Beautiful Things is a heartfelt, emotional exploration of grief and its lingering effects, and the tearjerking miniseries is beautifully anchored by Hahn, who received an Emmy nomination for her performance.
Homeland (2011-2020)
Available Seasons: 8 | Cast: Claire Danes (Carrie Mathison), Damian Lewis (Nicholas Brody), Mandy Patinkin (Saul Berensen)
Episode Runtime: 45-86 minutes
A long-running thriller that had the world talking when it was first released, Homeland remains a riveting viewing experience to this day. Claire Danes stars as Carrie Mathison, a CIA officer in the counterterrorism unit who is tasked with taking down some of the world's most dangerous terrorists. The series had eight seasons with a sprawling cast of characters and took Carrie from Washington D.C. to Russia and back. What could have been a derivative drama about politics and spies instead became a thrilling tale of espionage and conspiracy thanks to Danes’ performance and nuanced storytelling about the War on Terror. The series won 8 Emmys, and was nominated for several Golden Globe and SAG awards across its run.
Wu-Tang: An American Saga (2019-2023)
Available Seasons: 3 | Cast: Ashton Sanders (Bobby Diggs), Shameik Moore (Corey Woods), Joey Bada$$ (Jason Hunter)
Episode Runtime: 42-59 minutes
A fictionalized version of the origins of the Wu-Tang Clan, Wu-Tang: An American Saga shines a light on the group's journey from formation to their dominance of the New York hip-hop scene. Wu-Tang frontman RZA helms the show as creator, and though the series doesn't always reach the same heights as the group itself did, it remains a top pick for lovers of music and contemporary history alike. At the 2020 Black Reel Awards, Wu-Tang: An American Saga was nominated for Outstanding Drama Series and Ashton Sanders for Outstanding Supporting Actor. Not surprisingly, the show's original music earned a Primetime Emmy nomination and several accolades from the Golden Reel Awards.
Best Sci-Fi & Fantasy TV Shows On Hulu
Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles (2008-2009)
Available Seasons: 2 | Cast: Lena Headey (Sarah Connor), Thomas Dekker (John Connor), Summer Glau (Cameron/Alliso Young)
Episode Runtime: 43 minutes
In many fans' minds the most underrated and underappreciated chapter in the entire Terminator saga, The Sarah Connor Chronicles proves that, with the right story, the venerable franchise could still potentially thrive and survive. Picking up after the events of Terminator 2, the movie sees Sarah, John, and a reprogrammed Terminator called Cameron catapulted forward in time to 2007 where they must contend with an impending and delayed Judgment Day and Skynet's inexorable rise. Action-packed and narratively thrilling, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles won critical praise and has been the subject of multiple revival attempts since its cancellation.
Rick And Morty (2013-Present)
Available Seasons: 6 | Cast: Justin Roiland (Various), Spencer Gammer (Summer Smith), Chris Parnell (Jerry Smith), Sarah Chalke (Beth Smith)
Episode Runtime: 22 minutes
Irreverent, vulgar, and surprisingly heartfelt, Rick and Morty has quickly established itself as one of the most popular sci-fi comedies of the past decade. Subverting Back to the Future's central dynamic, the show centers on misanthropic genius Rick Sanchez, who travels the multiverse with his skittish grandson in tow. While Rick and Morty was initially known for its inventive standalone stories, its wider overarching narrative has come to the fore in later seasons, rewarding long-time viewers and newcomers alike.
12 Monkeys (2015-2018)
Available Seasons: 4 | Cast: Aaron Stanford (James Cole), Amanda Schull (Cassie Railly), Kirk Acevedo (José Ramse)
Episode Runtime: 40-48 minutes
Loosely based on Terry Gilliam's 1995 movie of the same name, 12 Monkeys effectively blends elements of mystery, sci-fi, and drama to create a compelling and thrilling series. Like the movie, the show utilizes a time-travel plot, revolving around plans to travel from the 2040s to 2015 in order to prevent a mysterious environmental terrorist organization releasing a deadly virus against humanity. Conspiratorial and engaging throughout, 12 Monkeys is a worthy follow-up to the hit movie.
Once Upon A Time (2011-2018)
Available Seasons: 7 | Cast: Ginnifer Goodwin (Mary Margaret Blanchard), Jennifer Morrison (Emma Swan), Jared Gilmore (Henry Mills) Colin O'Donoghue (Captain Killian 'Hook' Jones)
Episode Runtime: 45 minutes
Once Upon A Time is a twist on both classic fairy tales and Disney movies, set in the small town of Storybrooke. The series begins with a bail bondsman, Emma, moving to a small town with her son, to discover the the entire town is inhabited by fairy tale characters under a curse (and unaware of who they are). The series moves through past and present, magical realms, and multiple curses, tales, and love stories through all seven seasons. While the fairy tales provide the framework, the relationships are the true heart of the show, which explores parents and children as well as the more expected romantic subplots.
Dragons: The Nine Realms (2021 - )
Available Seasons: 7 | Cast: Jeremy Shada (Tom Kullersen), Aimee Garcia (Alex Gonzalez), Ashley Liao (Jun Wong)
Episode Runtime: 24 minutes
Set 1,300 years after How to Train Your Dragon, this spin-off series imagines a modern world where dragons are almost forgotten - until a group of kids find the truth about where they have been hiding. The same charm of the How To Train Your Dragon series comes to the show, with a whole new cast of characters - and a very different setting. Dragons: The Nine Realms is a fun series for fans of the franchise, and great family viewing, as well as being a Hulu Original.
Legion (2017-2019)
Available Seasons: 3 | Cast: Dan Stevens (Legion), Rachel Keller (Sydney Barrett), Aubrey Plaza (Lenny Busker), Amber Midthunder (Kerry Loudermilk)
Episode Length: 44-68 minutes
An innovative adaptation of a Marvel property, Legion is a far cry from the glossy MCU. Dan Stevens stars as David Haller, a man diagnosed with schizophrenia at a young age who discovers that he is actually a mutant. However, instead of following the stereotypical superhero template, Legion delivers a complex, surreal, and occasionally terrifying deep dive into mental health and trauma. The show is rated at an impressive 90% on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, indicating that its bold approach certainly paid dividends.
Futurama (1999-Present)
Available Seasons: 11 | Cast: John DiMaggio (Bender Bending Rodriguez), Billy West (Phillip J. Fry), Katey Sagal (Turanga Leela)
Episode Runtime: 22 minutes
While somewhat overshadowed by creator Matt Groening's cultural monolith The Simpsons, Futurama remains one of the best and most consistently funny sci-fi shows to ever appear on television. Following the crew of a fictional delivery ship as they embark on journeys across a futuristic galaxy, Futurama is hailed for its colorful cast of characters, satirical look at contemporary concerns through a futuristic scope, and inventive world-building. Despite multiple cancellations and revivals, the show remains hugely popular and one of the best sci-fi shows on Hulu.
Firefly (2002-2003)
Available Seasons: 1 | Cast: Nathan Fillion (Mal Reynolds), Gina Torres (Zoë Washburne), Alan Tudyk (Hoban Washburne)
Episode Runtime: 43-45 minutes
One of the most notorious and oft-cited one-season wonders in the history of television, Firefly is perhaps the quintessential cult classic show. Despite its short lifespan, Joss Whedon's Buffy the Vampire Slayer follow-up enjoys a dedicated following of fans to this day, many of whom still wonder what might have been had the show avoided cancelation. Nathan Fillion leads the cast as the captain of a ragtag crew of outlaws taking on various criminal jobs in the war-torn intergalactic world. Infusing Spaghetti Western elements into an original sci-fi setting makes Firefly stand out from other sci-fi shows, and the continuation of the mythos with the Serenity movie only helped secure its status further.
The X-Files (1993-2002)
Available Seasons: 11 | Cast: David Duchovny (Mulder), Gillian Anderson (Scully)
Episode Runtime: 43-46 minutes
It's easy to forget what a phenomenon The X-Files was when it first started airing in the 90s. The eerie and intense show followed FBI agents Mulder (David Duchovny) and Scully (Gillian Anderson) as they investigated strange and unexplained cases as an unseen threat sought to stop them. The show ignited fan interest, launching the online fan community with theories and fan fiction. Its blend of horror, sci-fi, and classic mystery made for an engrossing story that captured the 90s zeitgeist and dominated pop culture for a decade.
Cowboy Bebop (1998-1999)
Available Seasons: 1 | Cast: Kōichi Yamadera (Spike Spiegel), Unshō Ishizuka (Jet), Aoi Tada (Edward Wong), Megumi Hayashibara (Faye Valentine)
Episode Runtime: 24 minutes
From the iconic quotes to one of the catchiest and most engaging title sequences, Cowboy Bebop is a fun and thrilling show that transcends animation. Set in a stylized version of the space age, Cowboy Bebop is a completely unique blend of anime, neo-noir, science fiction, and Western tropes that follow the bounty hunter, Spike Spiegel, as he completes bounties for money and contends with his past as a hitman. Definitely deserving of being counted alongside the best Hulu sci-fi shows, Cowboy Bebop has not only won several accolades from Anime Grand Prix but is largely recognized to be a legitimate contender for the best anime series of all time, and certainly one of Hulu's best animes.
Lost (2004-2010)
Available Seasons: 6 | Cast: Matthew Fox (Jack Shephard), Josh Holloway (James Ford), Evangeline Lilly (Kate Austen)
Episode Runtime: 40-50 minutes
Though the Lost ending still causes controversy among fans, there is no denying that the mystery series remains one of the most captivating and closely-followed series ever seen on television. The show begins with a plane crashing on an island, leaving the survivors stranded and with no sign of help coming. However, they soon discover that the island itself was full of mysteries, launching a twisted, gripping narrative that pulled off some of the most daring reveals and shocks ever seen on the small screen. The massive ensemble and complex storytelling all added up to make Lost one of the must-watch shows of the 2000s.
Related: The 10 Best Supernatural TV Shows On Hulu, According To IMDb
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood (2009-2010)
Available Seasons: 1 | Cast: Romi Park (Edward Elric), Rie Kugimiya (Alphonse Eric), Vic Mignogna (Edward Alric), Maxey Whitehead (Alphonse Eric)
Episode Runtime: 12-18 minutes
In some ways a corrective to the original Fullmetal Alchemist, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood was developed to more faithfully adapt the original manga source material that inspired both shows. It managed to do so, telling the story of two brothers living in a fictional world of magic and alchemy. Their quest to become the greatest living alchemists uncovers conspiracies and secrets about their past. The series is an improvement over the original and its world-building ranks among the best in all anime, satisfying both manga loyalists and new audiences alike
The Orville (2017-Present)
Available Seasons: 3 | Cast: Seth MacFarlane (Captain Mercer), Adrianne Palicki (Commander Grayson), Halston Sage (Lieutenant Kitan), Scott Grimes (Lieutenant Malloy)
Episode Runtime: 40-48 minutes
Part parody, part love letter, Seth MacFarlane's The Orville is a comical tribute to shows like Star Trek. After a rough start in season 1, The Orville has enjoyed a positive critical reception for its gentle humor and clear respect for the stories that inspired it. MacFarlane writes, produces, and stars as Captain Edward "Ed" Mercer, the man at the helm of the Orville spaceship. Mercer and his crew go on a multitude of exciting space adventures and wryly skewer the tropes of serious space dramas, with The Orville getting named the Best Science Fiction Television Series at the 2018 Saturn Awards.
Best Crime TV Shows On Hulu
Snowfall (2017-2023)
Available Seasons: 6 | Cast: Damson Idris (Franklin Saint), Carter Hudson (Teddy MacDonald), Emily Rios (Lucia Villanueva)
Episode Runtime: 41-58 minutes
A nuanced and complex portrait of the illicit drug trade in America, Snowfall is unfairly overshadowed by hits like The Wire. However, thanks to its sprawling narrative and multiple compelling characters, the show is just as gripping as its more well-known competitors. Damson Idris stars as drug dealer Franklin Saint, kingpin of a crew of crack cocaine producers in Los Angeles. This position brings him and his so-called Family into contact and conflict with many shadowy figures, with predictably explosive results. Ambitious and engaging, Snowfall is an expertly told crime drama that deserves to be more widely seen.
Godfather Of Harlem (2019-Present)
Available Seasons: 3 | Cast: Forrest Whittaker (Ellsworth "Bumpy" Johnson)), Nigel Thatch (Malcolm X), Vincent D'Onofrio (Vincent Gigante)
Episode Runtime: 47-60 minutes
A historical crime drama, Godfather of Harlem chronicles the life and times of notorious underworld figure "Bumpy" Johnson. Following a stint in prison, Johnson returns to Harlem to find the neighborhood in shambles and dominated by the Italian Mafia. Forging an unlikely partnership with civil rights activist Malcolm X, Johnson plots his path back to the top. Buttressed by a superb central performance from Whittaker (who also serves as an executive producer), Godfather of Harlem is both a riveting historical portrait and a compelling crime epic.
Line of Duty (2012-2021)
Available Seasons: 5 | Cast: Adrian Dunbar (Ted Hastings), Vicky McClure (Kate Fleming), Martin Compston (Steve Arnott)
Episode Length: 57-88 minutes
One of the most popular British serials during its original run, Line of Duty kept viewers gripped with its stories of police corruption and organized crime. Dunbar, McClure, and Compston play a central trio of investigating officers, forming a key part of Anti-Corruption Unit 12 as they tackle the creeping influence of organized crime within the law itself. Jed Mercurio's tight scripting and flair for the dramatic guarantees intrigue throughout, while the limited number of episodes per season ensures a thrilling story.
Sons Of Anarchy (2008-2014)
Available Seasons: 7 | Cast: Charlie Hunnam (Jax Teller), Katey Sagal (Gemma Teller), Mark Boone Jr. (Robert Munson)
Episode Runtime: 39-81 minutes
Painting a somewhat romanticized portrait of biker culture, Sons of Anarchy won acclaim from fans and critics for its nuanced characters, exploration of complex ideas, and thrilling story. The series revolves around Hunnam's Jax Taylor, who serves as Vice President (and later President) of the titular gang. Living on the wrong side of the law leads Taylor and his closely-knit compatriots to engage in vigilantism and other criminal acts, all while contending with the morality of their actions. The show never shies away from questioning the efficacy of the group's actions, while still placing them as heroes in a chaotic and morally confusing world.
The Shield (2002-2008)
Available Seasons: 7 | Cast: Michael Chiklis (Vick Mackey), Walton Goggins (Chane Vendrell), CCH Pounder (Claudette Wyms)
Episode Runtime: 45-69 minutes
From the shocking first episode, The Shield established itself as one of the most daring and provocative shows on television. With The Sopranos proving that a show's protagonist doesn't need to be a likable person, crime series The Shield followed Vic Mackey (Michael Chiklis), a corrupt and violent police officer who did not seem to have a line he would not cross. Seeing the various ways Mackey took on bad guys while eluding authorities with his own criminal activities made for a nail-biting and intense ride, rewriting the rulebook on what a cop procedural could be.
Justified (2010-2015)
Available Seasons: 6 | Cast: Timothy Olyphant (Raylan Givens), Joelle Carter (Ava Crowder), Walton Goggins (Boyd Crowder)
Episode Runtime: 44 minutes
Despite never attracting the attention it deserved from mainstream audiences, critics were nearly unanimous in their opinion that Justified ranks among the best modern crime series. Starring Timothy Olyphant as Raylan Givens, the show follows a US Marshal assigned to his home county in Kentucky as he dispenses his modern-day cowboy lawman tactics on the local criminal element. The show is an entertaining ride with a thrilling pace and a good sense of humor throughout. Olyphant makes for one of the coolest TV heroes in recent memory while Walton Goggins is electrifying as his complex criminal counterpart.
Fargo (2014-Present)
Available Seasons: 4 | Cast: Billy Bob Thornton (Lorne Malvo), Allison Tolman (Molly Solverson), Colin Hanks (Gus Grimly), Martin Freeman (Lester Nygaard)
Episode Runtime: 39-68 minutes
As the original Fargo is such a cultural and critical touchstone, the announcement of a spin-off series was met with some surprise and no small amount of skepticism. First premiering in 2014, Fargo follows an anthology format and takes place in the same continuity and setting as the film. However, it takes an entirely different approach from the Coen brothers' classic. Each season tells a different story, with the complex narrative allowing a new compelling cast of characters to shine. Fargo has seen gripping performances from the likes of Martin Freeman, Chris Rock, and Ewan McGregor, establishing it as a showcase for some of the best talent working in the entertainment industry.
Only Murders In The Building (2021-Present)
Available Seasons: 3 | Cast: Steve Martin (Charles-Haden Savage), Martin Short (Oliver Putnam), Selena Gomez (Mabel Mora)
Episode Runtime: 35 minutes
One of the most celebrated original Hulu crime series, Only Murders in the Building is a joy from start to finish. Starring Selena Gomez (Mabel Mora), Steve Martin (Charles-Haden Savage), and Martin Short (Oliver Putnam), the series follows three strangers living in the same apartment building who bond over their love of true-crime podcasts. Things change, however, when a real murder happens in their building, leading the trio to start investigating and develop a podcast of their own. The chemistry between the three leads powers the series, and the zany comedy perfectly complements the genuinely compelling mystery.
Death Note (2006-2007)
Available Seasons: 1 | Cast: Mamoru Miyano (Light Yagami), Brad Swaile (Light Yagami)
Episode Runtime: 24 minutes
Death Note, based on the manga of the same name, takes the revered novelization and turns it into one of the greatest animes of all time. Spanning 37 episodes, Death Note closely follows the manga storyline of Light Yagami, a high school student who stumbles upon the “Death Note,” a mystical book that kills whoever’s name is written inside it. The show provides a deep, considered look into criminality and justice, and the search for Light by detective L. makes the short series a thrilling mystery. After the manga, light novels, and anime adaptation, the story of Death Note continued in live-action films, series, and even video games, yet it is the serialized TV adaptation that remains the strongest iteration of the story.
Best Thriller TV Shows On Hulu
The Other Black Girl (2023)
Available Seasons: 1 | Cast: Sinclair Daniel (Nella Rogers), Ashleigh Murray (Hazel-May McCall)
Episode Runtime: 24-31 minutes
Based on Zakiya Dalila Harris' bestselling novel of the same name, The Other Black Girl centers on Nella Rogers, an editorial assistant and the only Black female employee at Wagner Books. This changes when the publishing house hires the charismatic Hazel-May McCall (Ashleigh Murray), whom Nella instantly befriends. Hazel inspires and encourages Nella to be more confident and speak up for herself, but cracks begin to form in their relationship when Hazel becomes favored at work and Nella learns of a dark secret she's been hiding. An allegory for how Black women are treated in white-collar institutions, The Other Black Girl is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling.
The Killing (2011-2014)
Available Seasons: 4 | Cast: Joel Kinnaman (Stephen Holder), Mireille Enos (Sarah Linden), Billy Campbell (Darren Richmond)
Episode Runtime: 42-59 minutes
Based on the internationally acclaimed Danish series, The Killing is a worthy remake that both captures the essence of the original and adds to it where appropriate. Kinnaman and Enos play detectives working together to solve a number of murders across the show's four seasons, occasionally coming into conflict thanks to their competing styles and personalities. Eerie and occasionally horrifying, The Killing is a highly atmospheric thriller that honors the source material.
The Old Man (2022-Present)
Available Seasons: 1 | Cast: Jeff Bridges (Dan Chase), John Lithgow (Harold Harper), Alia Shawkat (Angela Adams)
Episode Runtime: 47-64 minutes
A spin on the soldier-struggling-at-home formula popularized by the likes of Rambo, The Old Man is the perfect vehicle for acting talents like Jeff Bridges and John Lithgow to shine. Bridges' protagonist is a Vietnam veteran who's been living off-grid for decades. However, his peaceful solitude is shattered when he kills an intruder who breaks into his hope, leading John Lithgow's Harper to kickstart a deadly and explosive game of cat-and-mouse. Violent and brooding, the show holds an impressive 97% on Rotten Tomatoes, underscoring its status as one of the best thrillers on Hulu.
Related: The Old Man Season 1 Ending Explained (In Detail)
Cruel Summer (2021-Present)
Available Seasons: 2 | Cast: Chiara Aurelia (Jeanette Turner), Sadie Stanley (Megan Landry), Olivia Holt (Kate Wallis)
Episode Runtime: 42-45 minutes
Thanks to its intriguing premise, Cruel Summer is an unnerving psychological thriller series that begs uncomfortable questions at every turn. While each season takes place in a different setting, the show consistently explores teen insecurity, identity, and social stigma. Season 1, for instance, sees awkward and retiring teen Jeanette thrive after the popular Kate disappears, with Jeanette seemingly stepping seamlessly into her shoes. Recognizable anxiety pervades both series of Cruel Summer, explaining why it has become such a hit with audiences young and old.
24 (2001-2014)
Available Seasons: 9 | Cast: Keifer Sutherland (Jack Bauer)
Episode Runtime: 43-51 minutes
Although its central schtick might seem somewhat gimmicky to a modern audience, 24 nevertheless remains one of the most original and exciting thrillers to air in the 21st century. Following Agent Jack Bauer as he attempts to thwart a variety of dastardly terrorist plots, what sets 24 apart is its use of real-time narration, with all episodes in a series taking place over a single 24-hour period. While the limitations of this approach caused some narrative problems, the condensed timeframe helped make 24 incredibly tense at its best, with the real-life battle against the clock adding an extra dimension to the action.
Prison Break (2005-2017)
Available Seasons: 5 | Cast: Dominic Purcell (Lincoln Burrows), Wentworth Miller (Michael Scofield)
Episode Runtime: 42-44 minutes
A huge hit with audiences on release, Prison Break remains an essential noughties thriller, thanks largely to its exceptional first few seasons. The show revolves around two brothers, one of whom has been sentenced to death for a crime he didn't commit. Vowing to help his sibling, the other brother devises an elaborate plan to help him escape and avoid a tragic miscarriage of justice. Nail-bitingly tense – especially during its acclaimed first season – Prison Break is a classic thriller TV show that will delight genre fans.
The Patient (2022)
Available Seasons: 1 | Cast: Steve Carrell (Alan Strauss), Domnhall Gleeson (Sam Fortner), Linda Emond (Candace Fortner)
Episode Length: 21-47 minutes
Part psychological thriller, part full-blown horror, The Patient takes a novel approach to the typical serial killer TV show template. Carrell plays Alan Strauss, a therapist and victim of Domnhall Gleeson's murderous Sam Fortner, who has kidnapped Strauss in order to help him reign in his murderous predilections. Both Carrell and Gleeson won critical acclaim for their tortured doctor/patient dynamic, and the show as a whole has been acclaimed for its effective execution of a compelling idea.
Best Documentary Shows On Hulu
Welcome To Wrexham (2022-Present)
Available Seasons: 2 | Cast: Ryan Reynolds, Rob McIlhenney, Paul Mullin, Phil Parkinson (Themselves)
Episode Runtime: 20-47 minutes
A sporting underdog story sprinkled with Hollywood pizazz, Welcome To Wrexham is the stranger-than-fiction true story of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McIlhenney's unlikely takeover of a historic football club in North Wales. After years spent languishing in obscurity, Wrexham AFC and its supporters are desperate for a return to the English Football League. However, while Reynolds and McIlhenney bring money and star-power, it soon becomes clear that nothing in the world of football is straightforward. Thrilling throughout, while also providing a touching insight into what football means to a local community, Welcome to Wrexham is a feel-good story that really captures the imagination.
Alone (2015-Present)
Available Seasons: 9 | Cast: Various
Episode Runtime: 60-90 minutes
Like an episode of Bear Grylls on steroids, Alone takes the constraints of the survival docu-drama series to new extremes. Following a group of contestants as they self-document their journey, Alone pits competitors together by abandoning them in a remote location with minimal supplies, limited medical check-ups, and no other human contact, in a bid to see who can survive the longest. While participants can tap out at any time, a lucrative cash prize provides added incentive. The perilous nature of the format provides no shortage of thrills, while the intense isolation of the cast allows for some interesting psychological insights.
Dark Side Of The Ring (2019-Present)
Available Seasons: 3 | Cast: Various
Episode Runtime: 60 minutes
Set within the realm of professional wrestling, The Dark Side Of The Ring offers an unparalleled look at what goes on behind the scenes once the crowd stops baying. Covering some of wrestling's most notorious incidents, the show takes a look at episodes like the Chris Benoit double-murder-suicide, and the death of Bruiser Brody. Examining each case with an expert eye for detail, the show is indispensable for anyone interested in the sport.
Limitless With Chris Hemsworth (2022)
Available Seasons: 1 | Cast: Chris Hemsworth
Episode Runtime: 44-75 minutes
An exploration of how humanity can better improve its health, fitness, and well-being, Limitless sees MCU star Chris Hemsworth set off on an epic quest. Teaming up with acclaimed filmmaker Darren Aronofsky, Hemsworth undertakes a series of extreme physiological challenges, all with the purpose of exploring his body's limitations and pushing beyond them. A fascinating window into different global cultures, as well as what humanity might be capable of in the right circumstances, Limitless is both artfully shot and insightful throughout.
Dear Muma (2023)
Available Seasons: 1 | Cast: Tupac Shakur, Various
Episode Runtime: 50-65 minutes
Both a portrait of one of America's most enigmatic and admired artists and a historical look at the nation's history with civil rights, Dear Muma centers on rapper Tupac Shakur and his mother and Black Panther activist Afeni. Featuring interviews with contemporaries and friends such as Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, and Jamal Joseph, the series places Shakur's art within a context of activism that helps explain its enduring power and influence. Nominated for a number of documentary awards, Dear Muma is easily among the most illuminating TV shows on Hulu.
Best Reality TV Shows On Hulu
The Amazing Race (2001-Present)
Available Seasons: 13 | Cast: Phil Keoghan (Host)
Episode Runtime: 43 minutes
The cream of the reality TV crop, The Amazing Race is one of the genre's most enduring and acclaimed series. Hosted by Phil Keoghan since its premiere, The Amazing Race is a competition series that sees teams of two race around the world completing various challenges, hoping to stay ahead of the pack and win the $1 million first prize. Not only does The Amazing Race have exciting challenges and plenty of conflict, but it stands out from reality shows in the amount of awe-inspiring locations it showcases. The Amazing Race has won 10 Outstanding Reality-Competition Prime Time Emmy awards, and it deserved every one.
Survivor (2000-Present)
Available Seasons: 12 | Cast: Jeff Probst (Host)
Episode Runtime: Available Seasons: 6 | Cast: Eugene Levy (Johnny Rose), Catherine O'Hara (Moira Rose), Daniel Levy (David Rose), Annie Murphy (Alexis Rose)
Episode Runtime: 43 minutes
The reality show that started it all, Survivor truly has everything. It's a survival adventure, a physical competition, a mental chess game, and the ultimate social experience. Survivor sees a group of strangers from all different walks of life stranded together on an island where they are forced to work together to survive while competing in challenges for immunity, as one by one the castaways vote each other off until only one Sole Survivor remains to claim the $1 million prize. Survivor has evolved over its 20+-year run, as the earlier seasons focused more on surviving the elements while alliances and strategy became more and more prevalent as the show went on. Every season has standout personalities, from Boston Rob to Parvati Shallow, and though many other reality shows have tried, none have ever come close to capturing Survivor's magic.
Best Horror TV Shows On Hulu
American Horror Story (2011-Present)
Available Seasons: 11 | Cast: Evan Peters, Sarah Paulson, Zachary Quinto (Various)
Episode Runtime: 32-73 minutes
Responsible for catapulting producer/director Ryan Murphy to superstardom, American Horror Story has left a huge mark on popular culture. The anthology series takes a new horrific setting and premise with every season, dealing with everything from alien abduction, to cults, circuses, and covens in the process. Fiendishly inventive and effectively scary throughout, the series has become a staple of horror on the small screen and continues to shock well over a decade after its debut.
Ash Vs. Evil Dead (2015-2018)
Available Seasons: 3 | Cast: Bruce Campbell (Ash Williams), Ray Santiago (Pablo Simon Bolivar), Dana DeLorenzo (Kelly Maxwell)
Episode Runtime: 25-37 minutes
Sam Raimi's cult classic horror-comedy franchise Evil Dead made its TV debut with Ash vs. Evil Dead. The show catches up with the iconic Ash Williams (Bruce Campbell) 30 years after the events of the Evil Dead movies. Ash is a washed-up Value Stop employee who spends his time drinking at bars when he's not at work. However, the chainsaw-handed former hero is called to action once again when a Deadite plague threatens to destroy humanity. Just like the movies that came before it, Ash vs. Evil Dead is filled with Raimi's signature blend of wacky comedy and over-the-top blood and gore. Campbell is as hilarious as ever as Ash, and his small-screen adventures are just as entertaining as the movies.
The Exorcist (2016-2017)
Available Seasons: 2 | Cast: Ben Daniels (Father Marcus Keane), Alfonso Herrera (Father Tomas Ortega), Hannah Kasulka (Casey Rance)
Episode Runtime: 45 minutes
A continuation of the inconsistent Exorcist franchise, The Exorcist is one of the few entries that can compare to the terrifying 1973 original. Following a pair of priests who encounter cases of demonic possession, the show wisely ignores the string of substandard movie sequels in order to craft something quietly terrifying on the small screen. Praised for its patient approach to building an atmosphere of terror, both seasons won critical praise.
The Strain (2014-2017)
Available Seasons: 4 | Cast: Corey Stoll (Dr. Ephraim Goodweather), David Bradley (Abraham Setrakian), Mia Maestro (Dr. Nora Martinez)
Episode Runtime: 39-70 minutes
Created by horror auteur Guillermo del Toro and based on his co-authored novel series of the same name, The Strain is a bold reinvention of the vampire myth. Instead of the usual suave and seductive creatures of the night, The Strain imagines vampires as a literal plague, brought to life by infectious viral worms that have the power to consume the planet. Corey Stoll's Dr. Goodweather leads a team of underground survivors as they attempt to combat the menace as it reaches America. Boasting some truly unsettling imagery, The Strain is one of the most original vampire series to be found anywhere.
Buffy The Vampire Slayer (1997-2003)
Available Seasons: 7 | Cast: Sarah Michelle Gellar (Buffy), Nicholas Brendon (Xander Harris), Alyson Hannigan (Willow)
Episode Runtime: 42-51 minutes
Though it started out as a forgettable and poorly received movie, Buffy the Vampire Slayer found redemption as a dark, funny, and much-loved television series. Created by Joss Whedon, it follows Buffy Summers (Sarah Michelle Gellar), a young high school girl who learns she is next in line to be the world's defender against vampires and other supernatural threats. Due to Whedon's alleged abusive behavior during the making of the show, Buffy the Vampire Slayer has a complex legacy. Yet it still means so much to many fans who enjoy it as its own piece of pop culture.
Hannibal (2013-2015)
Available Seasons: 3 | Cast: Hugh Dancy (Will Graham), Mads Mikkelsen (Hannibal Lecter), Laurence Fishburne (Jack Crawford)
Episode Runtime: 43 minutes
Following Anthony Hopkins' Oscar-winning and iconic performance in The Silence of the Lambs, it seemed all but impossible that another actor could establish the role of Hannibal Lecter as his own. This legacy is what makes Mads Mikkelsen's performance, and subsequent success of Hannibal, all the more impressive. Chronicling the complex relationship between Lecter and F.B.I special agent Will Graham, this gothic, bloody series is one of the best horror thrillers on Hulu, and does a fantastic job of making the cannibalistic killer a compelling antihero while maintaining his terrifying aura.