Best Hulu Originals of 2025

2025 proved to be a defining year for Hulu as the streamer solidified its reputation for delivering top-tier original programming across every genre. The platform balanced highly anticipated conclusions to legacy series with a fresh wave of inventive dramas and laugh-out-loud comedies. Viewers witnessed the expansion of iconic sci-fi universes alongside the return of beloved characters in critically acclaimed returning seasons. This robust slate highlighted a commitment to diverse storytelling that resonated with audiences and critics alike. The following collection represents the finest series and seasons that made Hulu an essential subscription this year.

‘Alien: Earth’ (2025)

Noah Hawley expands the iconic sci-fi horror franchise with this terrifying prequel series set on Earth. A mysterious spacecraft crash-lands in a populated city, unleashing a deadly xenomorph threat that forces humanity to fight for survival. The show blends corporate espionage with creature horror as the Weyland-Yutani Corporation scrambles to contain the outbreak while securing the organism for their own gain. Sydney Chandler delivers a standout performance as a synthetic caught between her programming and the humans she is sworn to protect. This series successfully revitalizes the saga by grounding the cosmic terror in a gritty, recognizable near-future setting.

‘The Bear’ (2022–)

Season 4 continues the high-stress culinary journey of Carmy Berzatto and his dedicated kitchen staff. Tensions reach a boiling point as the restaurant pushes for a Michelin star, testing the bonds between the team members like never before. Carmy struggles to balance his professional ambition with his deteriorating personal life, leading to explosive confrontations and quiet moments of introspection. The cinematography remains claustrophobic and kinetic, perfectly capturing the chaotic energy of a fine-dining establishment. This season further cements the show’s reputation for blending intense drama with sharp, character-driven comedy.

‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ (2017–2025)

The sixth and final season brings June Osborne’s harrowing journey to a dramatic and emotional conclusion. As the resistance against Gilead reaches a critical turning point, June must make impossible choices to secure a future for her children. The political landscape shifts violently, forcing unexpected alliances between former enemies in the fight for freedom. Elisabeth Moss delivers a final, powerhouse performance that explores the cost of vengeance and the enduring power of hope. This concluding chapter provides a satisfying, albeit devastating, resolution to one of the most culturally significant dramas of the decade.

‘Only Murders in the Building’ (2021–)

Charles, Oliver, and Mabel return for a fifth season of sleuthing within the walls of the Arconia. The trio investigates a shocking new homicide that hits closer to home than ever, uncovering secrets that date back to the building’s construction. New celebrity guest stars join the cast, adding fresh comedic dynamics and red herrings to the intricate mystery. The season explores the characters’ personal growth as they grapple with their podcast’s fame and the dangers it invites. It remains a delightful blend of cozy mystery, physical comedy, and genuine heart.

‘All’s Fair’ (2025)

Ryan Murphy teams up with Kim Kardashian for this glossy, high-stakes legal drama centered on an all-female divorce law firm in Los Angeles. Kardashian stars as a ruthless divorce attorney who navigates the scandalous separations of Hollywood’s elite while managing her own complicated romantic life. The series combines sharp dialogue with lavish production design, offering a satirical yet gripping look at wealth and matrimony. A powerhouse ensemble cast, including Glenn Close and Sarah Paulson, elevates the material with campy yet compelling performances. It quickly became a cultural conversation piece for its fashion, drama, and surprising emotional depth.

‘Chad Powers’ (2025)

Glen Powell shines in this sports comedy about a disgraced college quarterback who disguises himself to walk onto a struggling Southern football team. Based on the popular sketch, the series explores themes of redemption and identity through a hilarious and often absurd lens. The makeup effects used to transform Powell are impressive, allowing him to inhabit the larger-than-life persona of Chad Powers completely. The show balances slapstick humor with a heartfelt underdog story that resonates with sports fans and comedy lovers alike. It is a charming exploration of second chances and the lengths one will go to play the game they love.

‘Nine Perfect Strangers’ (2021–)

Nicole Kidman returns as the enigmatic wellness guru Masha in a second season set in the Swiss Alps. A new group of stressed city dwellers arrives at her retreat seeking transformation, only to find themselves subjected to increasingly unconventional and dangerous therapies. The breathtaking snowy backdrop contrasts sharply with the heated interpersonal conflicts that erupt among the guests. This season delves deeper into Masha’s mysterious past and the true nature of her healing methods. The ensemble cast delivers complex performances that keep the audience guessing about their true motivations until the very end.

‘Paradise’ (2025)

Dan Fogelman delivers a high-concept drama set in a utopian community where a shocking murder shatters the peace. The series plays with timelines and perspectives, slowly peeling back the layers of the idyllic town to reveal the dark secrets harboring its residents. Sterling K. Brown gives a commanding performance as the head of security trying to maintain order while investigating the crime. The show masterfully builds tension, questioning whether true paradise can ever exist without suppressing human nature. It is a gripping mystery that challenges viewers to question the price of perfection.

‘The Lowdown’ (2025)

Sterlin Harjo’s new drama series stars Ethan Hawke as a faded journalist uncovering a conspiracy in a small Oklahoma town. The show blends noir elements with Harjo’s signature localized storytelling, creating a unique atmosphere that is both funny and melancholic. Hawke’s character battles his own cynicism and past failures as he digs deeper into a story that no one wants him to tell. The supporting cast of quirky local characters adds depth and humor to the unfolding mystery. It is a thoughtful examination of the decline of local news and the corruption that festers in its absence.

‘Good American Family’ (2025)

Ellen Pompeo and Mark Duplass star in this disturbing limited series based on the true story of the Natalia Grace adoption case. The show presents conflicting narratives, leaving the audience to decide who is the victim and who is the villain in this stranger-than-fiction saga. Pompeo delivers a chilling performance as a mother pushed to the brink, while the script navigates the legal and ethical complexities of the situation. The series avoids sensationalism, focusing instead on the psychological toll the events took on everyone involved. It is a tense, uncomfortable watch that lingers long after the credits roll.

‘Dying for Sex’ (2025)

Michelle Williams stars in this adaptation of the hit podcast about a woman diagnosed with terminal breast cancer who leaves her unhappy marriage to explore her sexuality. The series is a raw, honest, and surprisingly funny look at reclaiming one’s life in the face of death. Williams balances the character’s grief with a ferocious appetite for new experiences, creating a portrait of a woman refusing to go quietly. The show handles sensitive subject matter with grace, celebrating female desire and autonomy. It is a life-affirming drama that finds joy and connection in the most difficult circumstances.

‘Deli Boys’ (2025)

This comedy series follows a pair of pampered Pakistani-American brothers who must take over their father’s convenience store empire after his sudden death. They quickly discover that the business was a front for a criminal operation, forcing them into a dangerous underworld they are completely ill-equipped to handle. The show deftly balances slapstick humor with cultural commentary and family drama. Asif Ali and Saagar Shaikh have incredible chemistry as the bickering siblings trying to survive. It is a fresh, fast-paced comedy that offers a new perspective on the immigrant experience.

‘A Thousand Blows’ (2025)

Set in the perilous world of illegal boxing in 1880s Victorian London, this gritty drama follows two friends from Jamaica who find themselves fighting for survival. Stephen Graham stars as a seasoned boxer and enforcer, bringing his trademark intensity to the brutal fight scenes. The series does not shy away from the violence of the era, depicting the harsh realities of life in the East End. The period detail is immersive, creating a visceral and atmospheric backdrop for the character-driven story. It is a compelling look at friendship, loyalty, and the fight for dignity in a system designed to crush the weak.

‘Washington Black’ (2025)

Sterling K. Brown produces and stars in this epic adaptation of Esi Edugyan’s novel about an 11-year-old boy who escapes slavery on a Barbados sugar plantation. The series follows George Washington Black as he travels the world, becoming an artist and scientist while fleeing his past. The production values are sweeping, capturing the diverse landscapes from the Caribbean to the Arctic. It is an adventurous and emotional journey that explores themes of freedom, identity, and the power of human connection. The young lead actor delivers a breakout performance that anchors the sprawling narrative.

‘Scamanda’ (2025)

Based on the hit podcast, this docu-drama unravels the shocking true story of a woman who faked a cancer diagnosis to solicit donations from her community. The series combines dramatic reenactments with interviews from the bloggers and investigators who exposed the deception. It highlights the manipulative power of social media and the betrayal felt by those who offered their support. The pacing is tight, revealing new layers of the scam in each episode. It serves as a cautionary tale about the verification of truth in the digital age.

‘Got to Get Out’ (2025)

This innovative social experiment and competition series places a group of strangers in a mansion where they must work together to escape. Unlike typical reality shows, the “escape” involves solving intricate physical and mental puzzles that require genuine cooperation. Tensions rise as the prize money dwindles with every failed attempt and time penalty. The show blends the aesthetics of a heist movie with the interpersonal drama of Big Brother. It is a refreshing take on the reality genre that rewards intelligence and teamwork over backstabbing.

‘Hoops, Hopes & Dreams’ (2025)

This animated series follows a group of inner-city kids who dream of winning the national streetball championship. The animation style is vibrant and influenced by graffiti art, matching the high energy of the basketball sequences. The show tackles real issues facing youth today, including poverty and peer pressure, without losing its optimistic tone. The voice cast brings authenticity and humor to the diverse group of friends. It is an inspiring sports story that celebrates community and perseverance.

‘Murdaugh: Death In The Family’ (2025)

This scripted limited series dramatizes the rise and fall of the Murdaugh legal dynasty in South Carolina. It chronicles the string of mysterious deaths and financial crimes that eventually led to Alex Murdaugh’s conviction. The show focuses on the family dynamics and the culture of corruption that allowed their power to go unchecked for decades. The performances are chillingly realistic, capturing the duality of a man who was both a respected community leader and a monster. It is a gripping true-crime tragedy that explores the dark side of privilege.

‘The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox’ (2025)

This scripted drama revisits the infamous trial of Amanda Knox, offering a new perspective on the media circus that surrounded the case. The series focuses on the cultural clash between the American defendant and the Italian legal system. It critiques the tabloid journalism that demonized Knox before the facts were fully understood. The show is tense and claustrophobic, largely taking place within courtrooms and prison cells. It asks difficult questions about misogyny and the presumption of innocence.

‘Reasonable Doubt’ (2022–)

Season 3 sees defense attorney Jax Stewart taking on her most controversial case yet, defending a high-profile politician accused of a hate crime. The legal battles are fiercer, and the personal stakes are higher as Jax’s past decisions come back to haunt her. The show continues to deliver steamy romance and complex moral dilemmas. Emayatzy Corinealdi remains a commanding presence, portraying a woman who is unapologetically ambitious and flawed. The season explores themes of justice and public perception in the age of social media.

‘Tell Me Lies’ (2022–)

The third season of this addictive drama delves deeper into the toxic relationship between Lucy and Stephen over the course of several years. As the timeline jumps between their college days and the present, new secrets about the central mystery are revealed. The characters continue to make destructive choices that ripple through their friend group, leading to betrayals and broken trust. The show excels at depicting the manipulative nature of emotional abuse. It remains a guilty pleasure that is impossible to look away from.

‘The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’ (2024–)

Season 2 of this reality sensation brings more drama from the #MomTok community in Utah. The cast navigates the fallout from the previous season’s scandals, including shifting alliances and public feuds. The show offers a fascinating glimpse into a specific subculture where faith and influencer fame collide. Viewers are treated to lavish parties, tearful confessions, and shocking revelations about the women’s personal lives. It is a mesmerizing study of modern social media stardom within a traditional religious framework.

‘The Kardashians’ (2022–)

The famous family returns for another season of documenting their business empires and personal milestones. This year focuses heavily on the next generation of Kardashian kids and the expanding global reach of their brands. The sisters navigate co-parenting challenges and health scares with their signature blend of glamour and vulnerability. The production quality remains top-tier, turning their daily lives into a cinematic experience. It continues to be a dominant force in reality television, offering fans intimate access to the headlines.

‘Solar Opposites’ (2020–)

The alien family continues their mission to protect the Pupa while getting distracted by human pop culture. This season sees the Wall storyline take an even darker and more epic turn, rivaling the main plot for viewer engagement. The humor is as fast-paced and violent as ever, pushing the boundaries of taste and logic. Korvo and Terry’s dynamic remains the highlight, with their bickering masking a genuine affection. It is a chaotic and colorful animated sitcom that refuses to take itself seriously.

‘Shoresy’ (2022–)

Jared Keeso’s foul-mouthed hockey player returns for a fourth season of chirping and fighting. The Sudbury Blueberry Bulldogs face a new league rival that threatens their standing, forcing the team to train harder and dirtier. The show continues to find surprising depth in its crude characters, exploring themes of loyalty and leadership. The rapid-fire dialogue is a feat of writing and performance. It remains the funniest and most authentic sports comedy on television.

‘Welcome to Wrexham’ (2022–)

Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney guide Wrexham AFC through another season of high hopes and heartbreaking setbacks. Season 4 focuses on the challenges of competing in a higher league and the pressure to sustain the club’s success. The series continues to highlight the stories of the local community, showing how the team’s fortunes affect the town. The bond between the Hollywood owners and the Welsh fans feels stronger and more genuine than ever. It is a feel-good documentary series that captures the magic of football.

‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’ (2005–)

The Gang returns for a record-breaking 17th season, proving they have learned absolutely nothing from their past mistakes. The episodes tackle current events with the show’s trademark cynicism and depravity. Dennis, Mac, Charlie, Dee, and Frank find new ways to ruin the lives of everyone they encounter. The chemistry between the cast is telepathic, making even the most offensive storylines hilarious. It remains the gold standard for cringe comedy.

‘The Old Man’ (2022–)

Jeff Bridges returns as former CIA operative Dan Chase in a third season that raises the stakes of his fugitive life. Chase and Harold Harper are forced to travel internationally to dismantle a threat that dates back to their time in Afghanistan. The action sequences are brutal and grounded, emphasizing the physical toll on the aging protagonist. The plot is dense and intelligent, requiring close attention to the shifting loyalties. Bridges and John Lithgow deliver masterclass performances in this gripping spy thriller.

‘Goosebumps’ (2023–)

The second season, subtitled The Vanishing, features a new cast and a standalone story inspired by R.L. Stine’s books. David Schwimmer stars as a father whose past secrets haunt his children when they move to a mysterious new town. The show balances genuine scares with teen drama, appealing to both nostalgic adults and a new generation of fans. The special effects for the monsters are impressive, bringing the classic book covers to life. It is a fun, spooky adventure perfect for the Halloween season.

‘Extraordinary’ (2023–)

Jen, the only person in a world of superheroes without a power, continues her quest for self-acceptance in season 3. The show expands its world-building, introducing new and bizarre powers that serve as metaphors for adult insecurities. The humor is British, dry, and delightfully raunchy. The friendship between Jen and Carrie remains the heart of the series. It is a fresh and inventive subversion of the superhero genre.

‘UnPrisoned’ (2023–)

Kerry Washington and Delroy Lindo return for a third season of this dramedy about a relationship therapist and her formerly incarcerated father. The season explores the challenges of recidivism and the difficulty of rebuilding trust after years of absence. The script balances heavy social issues with lighthearted family moments. Lindo’s performance is nuanced and heartbreaking, grounding the show’s emotional arc. It is a thoughtful exploration of the complexities of the justice system and family bonds.

‘Life & Beth’ (2022–)

Amy Schumer’s semi-autobiographical series enters its third season, following Beth as she navigates marriage and motherhood. The show moves away from the flashbacks of previous seasons to focus on the present-day challenges of balancing career and family. The tone is more introspective, blending Schumer’s stand-up sensibilities with quiet drama. Michael Cera continues to be a perfect foil, bringing an awkward charm to the relationship. It is a mature and honest look at growing up and settling down.

‘Mid-Century Modern’ (2025)

This multi-cam sitcom created by Ryan Murphy stars Nathan Lane and Matt Bomer as a gay couple navigating life in Palm Springs. The show pays homage to classic sitcoms like The Golden Girls, blending theatrical performances with sharp, witty banter. The vibrant mid-century aesthetic gives the series a unique visual style. It explores themes of aging, friendship, and the LGBTQ+ experience across generations. It is a comforting yet biting comedy that relies on the strength of its veteran cast.

‘English Teacher’ (2024–)

Brian Jordan Alvarez’s comedy series returns for a second season, following the staff of a high school in Austin, Texas. The show tackles the culture wars infiltrating the classroom with a sharp, satirical eye. The dialogue is fast and naturalistic, capturing the chaos of the modern educational environment. The ensemble cast has developed a lived-in chemistry that makes the faculty lounge scenes a highlight. It is a smart, relevant comedy that finds humor in the frustrations of teaching.

‘American Horror Stories’ (2021–)

The anthology spinoff continues to deliver bite-sized horror tales that explore different subgenres, from slashers to supernatural thrillers. The new batch of episodes features a mix of returning franchise favorites and new actors. The stories are often campy and experimental, taking risks that the main series might avoid. The special effects and creature designs remain a high point. It serves as a fun, unpredictable playground for horror fans.

‘Bachelor in Paradise’ (2014–)

Now streaming exclusively on Hulu, the ninth season brings a new group of Bachelor alumni to the beaches of Mexico. The drama is heightened by the unedited format, allowing for more candid and chaotic moments. Relationships form and crumble in record time as new arrivals shake up the dynamics. The show embraces its trashy reputation, leaning into the absurdity of finding love on TV. It remains a guilty pleasure staple for reality TV addicts.

‘Vanderpump Villa’ (2024–)

Lisa Vanderpump’s new staff at her French chateau delivers a second season of romance, insubordination, and luxury service. The stakes are higher as the guests demand perfection, and the staff’s interpersonal drama threatens to ruin the experience. The beautiful setting contrasts with the messy behavior of the cast. Vanderpump serves as the stern but glamorous matriarch, dispensing advice and discipline. It is a feast for the eyes and a trainwreck for the soul.

‘Impact x Nightline’ (2022–)

The news magazine series continues to offer in-depth reporting on the cultural stories that matter to a younger generation. The correspondents travel globally to cover topics ranging from climate change to internet subcultures. The editing is fast-paced and stylish, distinguishing it from traditional news programs. It tackles hard-hitting subjects with empathy and nuance. The show provides a necessary platform for underreported stories.

‘The New York Times Presents’ (2020–)

This documentary series releases new standalone films that investigate significant cultural and social issues. The 2025 slate includes deep dives into corporate malfeasance and the ethics of artificial intelligence. The journalism is rigorous, backed by the resources of the Times newsroom. Each episode plays like a high-quality feature film. It is essential viewing for those who want to understand the forces shaping our world.

‘Taste the Nation with Padma Lakshmi’ (2020–)

Padma Lakshmi returns to explore the rich and diverse food culture of immigrant communities across America. The new season highlights cuisines that are often overlooked, telling the stories of the people behind the dishes. Lakshmi’s warmth and curiosity make her the perfect guide. The show is beautifully shot, treating street food with the same reverence as fine dining. It is a celebration of how food connects us to our heritage and to each other.

‘American Sports Story’ (2024–)

Following the Aaron Hernandez saga, the anthology series turns its focus to a new controversial figure in sports history. The second season dramatizes the rise and tragic fall of a legendary athlete, exploring the pressure of fame and the darker side of professional competition. The production recreates the era with accuracy, from the uniforms to the media coverage. It is a compelling character study that appeals to both sports fans and drama lovers.

‘How to Die Alone’ (2024–)

Natasha Rothwell’s comedy returns for a second season, following Melissa as she continues to embrace her new life after a near-death experience. The show balances laugh-out-loud physical comedy with poignant moments about loneliness and self-worth. Melissa’s journey at the airport and in her dating life is relatable and heartwarming. Rothwell is a charismatic lead who makes every scene sing. It is a hidden gem that celebrates the beauty of an ordinary life.

End your reading experience by letting us know in the comments which of these Hulu Originals you are most excited to watch this year!