Best shows to watch on Hulu this spring

Although Netflix may have paved the way for other streaming platforms to produce exceptional original programming, it was Hulu that made history in 2017 by becoming the first streaming service to win an Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series with The Handmaid's Tale. The show won a total of eight Emmys during its first season and has continued to garner nominations and awards in subsequent years.

Despite an increase in competition for streaming viewership since Hulu's rise to critical acclaim, the platform remains distinctive for its meticulously curated collection of original series and partnerships with networks such as FX. Below, we have listed some of our favorite shows currently available for streaming on Hulu.

Great Expectations

Unlike Alfonso Cuarón's 1998 film, this latest adaptation of Charles Dickens's novel is not a modern retelling but a unique interpretation. Starring Olivia Colman as the iconic Miss Havisham, this six-part series reinvents the story of Pip, a young boy aspiring to a higher social class, as a Gothic narrative that explores the ethical compromises required to achieve success.

With outstanding performances and a stylish aesthetic, it's an excellent miniseries for both fans of the novel and those experiencing Dickens's tale for the first time.

History of the World, Part II

Four decades after the release of Mel Brooks' History of the World, Part I, the comedic genius has brought together a star-studded cast of comedic talent for a sequel. Featuring Nick Kroll, Wanda Sykes, Jason Mantzoukas, and Quinta Brunson, this series of sketches was released in March. From Sigmund Freud to Rasputin to Jesus Christ, no one is safe from the mockery - and hilarity ensues.

Abbott Elementary

Abbott Elementary, a hit series created by and starring Quinta Brunson, chronicles the daily lives of a group of teachers at what is widely considered one of America's worst public schools, both inside and outside the classroom. Despite the school's lack of funding for even the most basic educational needs and a school district administration that is primarily focused on meeting minimal standards, this unique group of educators is committed to inspiring their students and exceeding expectations. The show is currently in its second season and has already won three Emmy Awards.

Atlanta

Donald Glover showcases his talents as an actor, writer, musician, and comedian in this critically acclaimed FX series, which follows the journey of Earnest Marks - an aspiring music manager working to launch his cousin Alfred Miles' rap career under the stage name Paper Boi. Alongside a supportive crew of friends, including Alfred's best friend Darius, and Earn's friend and Van, the group navigates the ups and downs of the music industry. While the premise may sound like a typical buddy comedy, Atlanta is anything but ordinary. Glover fearlessly experiments with storytelling.

The Bear

If you haven't seen The Bear yet, chances are you've still heard plenty about it and received numerous recommendations. This riveting series premiered in June 2022 and quickly became the talk of the town for good reason. Jeremy Allen White plays Carmen Berzatto, a renowned figure in the fine dining world who returns to his hometown of Chicago to save his family's struggling sandwich shop after his brother's suicide.

Initially struggling to adapt to being back home, Carmy eventually realizes that he can change both himself and the restaurant for the better. The show effectively captures the intense stress that comes with working in a busy kitchen, adding to its realism. While the plot may seem straightforward, Carmy's mysterious past is slowly revealed in bite-sized portions throughout the season.

The Dropout

Amanda Seyfried's outstanding lead actress Emmy win was well-deserved for her depiction of Elizabeth Holmes, the infamous Stanford dropout who became a healthcare technology icon and convinced some of the savviest business minds to invest in her company, Theranos. Although Holmes had an altruistic motive of making healthcare more accessible to the masses through a device that could detect multiple diseases with a single finger prick of blood, the technology never caught up. Rather than admitting failure, she continued to push and make promises that she couldn't keep, resulting in numerous failed business deals.

The Great

Elle Fanning and Nicholas Hoult deliver outstanding performances in this clever and fast-paced comedic take on Catherine the Great's rise to power. Tony McNamara, who received an Oscar nomination for co-writing The Favourite, brings his signature mix of sumptuous costumes and scenery together with biting social commentary on women's place in society in this engaging series. Although set in the 18th century during Catherine's reign as empress of Russia, The Great is not a historically accurate retelling, as the creators describe it as an "anti-historical" romp that is sure to entertain.