Mid-Century Modern is a new comedy series that premiered today, March 28, 2025, on Hulu, with all 10 episodes available to stream. Created by Max Mutchnick and David Kohan (known for Will & Grace) and executive produced by Ryan Murphy, the show follows three gay best friends—described as “gentlemen of a certain age“—who, after the unexpected death of a friend, decide to live together in Palm Springs. The wealthiest of the trio, Bunny Schneiderman (played by Nathan Lane), resides there with his mother, Sybil Schneiderman (played by the late Linda Lavin). The other two friends are Jerry Frank (Matt Bomer) and Arthur Broussard (Nathan Lee Graham).
The show is a multi-camera sitcom, filmed in front of a live audience, and directed by sitcom legend James Burrows. It’s been compared to The Golden Girls for its premise of older friends living together, though it carves out its own identity with a modern, unapologetically queer perspective. The cast is rounded out by notable guest stars like Pamela Adlon, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, and Rhea Perlman, among others. Tragically, Linda Lavin passed away in December 2024 from lung cancer complications, with three episodes left to film. Her death was written into the series, adding an emotional layer to the later episodes.
So, is Mid-Century Modern based on a true story? Not exactly, but it’s packed with heart and clever nods to reality. Let’s break it down!
Three Besties Take on Palm Springs Life
Hulu’s Mid-Century Modern follows three gay best friends—Bunny Schneiderman (Nathan Lane), Arthur Broussard (Nathan Lee Graham), and Jerry Frank (Matt Bomer)—who move in together in Palm Springs after losing a pal. Created by Max Mutchnick and David Kohan, the duo behind Will & Grace, this comedy tracks their wild and touching adventures. They’re not just lounging in the sun; they’re facing big challenges like finding love later in life, patching things up with family, and even winning over a skeptical neighbor about gay rights. Although the story is fictional, its relatable highs and lows resonate deeply.
The show shines by blending laughs with real talk about aging and building a chosen family. Bunny’s sharp-tongued mom, Sybil (played by the late Linda Lavin), spices things up too. While it’s not based on actual events, the creators lean on their experience to make it feel authentic and fresh.
A Modern Twist on Sitcom Classics
Fans of The Golden Girls might notice some similarities. Both shows feature older friends living together, tackling life’s quirks with humor and grit. Mid-Century Modern uses a multi-camera setup with a live audience, giving it that classic sitcom vibe but with a 2025 edge. You’ll catch mentions of dating apps and TikTok, blending old-school charm with today’s world.
Max Mutchnick and David Kohan didn’t just dust off old ideas. They’ve leveled up since Will & Grace. In a Forbes interview, Mutchnick said, “We knew more, so we said more. It’s great to ditch some old limits and tackle real issues.” That freedom lets them weave in smart takes on society—like personal beliefs clashing with politics—while keeping the fun alive. Matt Bomer refers to it as a “spiritual sister” to The Golden Girls, yet it firmly establishes its unique identity.
Why It Feels So True (Even If It’s Fiction)
While Mid-Century Modern is not based on a true story, it masterfully captures the complex and captivating atmosphere of friendship and aging. Bunny’s exuberance, Arthur’s fearlessness, and Jerry’s heartfelt connection captivate you. They deal with stuff like job struggles and distant kids, all while cracking jokes and lifting each other up. It’s not a true story, but it mirrors life’s chaos and joy perfectly.
The cast brings the whole experience together. Nathan Lane delivers big laughs, Matt Bomer brings soul, and Linda Lavin’s last role (she passed in December 2024) adds a bittersweet punch. Her death got written into the show, making the later episodes extra moving. Plus, guest stars like Pamela Adlon and Jesse Tyler Ferguson keep it buzzing.
Big Ideas, Big Fun
What’s awesome about Mid-Century Modern is how it slips in heavy topics without getting preachy. It’s got plots about bridging gaps—like winning over a neighbor with kindness instead of arguments. The mix of deep moments and silly bits, like a TikTok flop, keeps you glued to the screen. It’s all about finding common ground in a divided world, served up in a binge-worthy package.
Ready to dive in? Swing by TV Acute for more on this Hulu hit. It’s not a real-life tale, but its magic comes from celebrating friendship and laughter. Take your remote, begin streaming, and allow these three friends to demonstrate the rationale behind the rules of your chosen family—no true story required! What do you think—gonna give it a go?
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