Best Hulu Original Series Ranked for Your Next Binge

If you subscribe to Hulu and want to find the best original series to binge, start by focusing on shows that combine strong storytelling, critical acclaim, and viewer popularity. Hulu's original series stand out for their creative freedom and diverse themes, offering something different from network or other streaming platforms. This guide ranks the top Hulu originals and explains how to choose one that fits your tastes, so you can enjoy your next binge without wasting time.

What makes a Hulu original series stand out?

Hulu original series stand out because they often explore mature themes and complex characters without the restrictions typical of network TV. They take creative risks with diverse voices and experimental storytelling formats, resulting in fresh and original content. Many Hulu originals have concise seasons with fewer episodes, making them easier to watch without filler. This freedom allows Hulu to focus on timely topics and bold narratives, setting these shows apart from those on other streaming platforms or traditional networks.

Criteria used to rank Hulu original series

The series on this list were ranked based on a combination of popularity, critical acclaim, and viewer ratings. Popularity reflects how widely watched a show is among Hulu subscribers. Critical acclaim includes positive reviews from professional critics and recognition through awards. Viewer ratings come from audience feedback and scores on review platforms. Together, these criteria help identify Hulu originals that offer quality storytelling and engaging content, ensuring you pick a show that’s both well-made and enjoyable.

Which Hulu original series are the most popular and critically acclaimed?

1. The Handmaid's Tale – Hulu’s flagship dystopian drama is known for intense performances and a chilling vision of a totalitarian society. It blends strong character development with relevant social commentary and has won multiple awards.
2. PEN15 – A coming-of-age comedy featuring adult actors portraying their middle school selves, praised for its authentic, awkward humor and emotional honesty.
3. Fargo (Seasons on Hulu) – Although originally an FX series, Hulu holds exclusive streaming rights. This darkly comedic crime anthology features new stories and characters each season, with sharp writing and standout performances.
4. Ramy – This show follows a first-generation American Muslim dealing with faith and identity, combining humor and drama with cultural insight.
5. Shrill – Centered on a plus-size woman striving for change without altering her body, this comedy is celebrated for its empowering themes and witty writing.
6. Castle Rock – A psychological horror anthology inspired by Stephen King’s work, noted for suspense and complex characters.
7. Little Fires Everywhere – A drama exploring race, privilege, and motherhood, recognized for strong performances and thoughtful themes.

These shows earned their spots through a blend of strong viewer ratings, critical praise, and cultural impact, making them some of Hulu’s best offerings.

What unique genres or themes do Hulu originals often explore?

Hulu originals frequently explore genres like dystopian drama, dark comedy, psychological thriller, and socially conscious stories. They often center on underrepresented voices and tackle topics such as identity, race, gender, and politics with nuance. For instance, The Handmaid's Tale examines authoritarianism and women's rights, while Ramy explores cultural and religious identity. Comedies like PEN15 and Shrill focus on personal growth and body positivity with fresh humor. Hulu also experiments with anthology formats, as seen in Castle Rock and Fargo, offering variety and standalone storytelling. This mix of bold themes and diverse genres is a hallmark of Hulu originals.

How to pick the best Hulu original series for your tastes

1. Decide what genre or mood you want—whether it's intense drama, comedy, or thriller.
2. Consider how much time you want to invest. Shows with shorter seasons or fewer episodes are easier to binge quickly.
3. Read brief descriptions to find themes that interest you, like social issues or personal struggles.
4. Look at viewer ratings and critical reviews if you want assurance about quality.
5. If you prefer character-driven stories, pick shows known for strong performances, like The Handmaid's Tale or Little Fires Everywhere.
6. For lighter viewing with meaningful humor, try comedies like PEN15 or Shrill.
7. If you like anthology series, Fargo or Castle Rock let you watch individual seasons without prior knowledge.

Following these steps will help you quickly find a Hulu original that suits your mood and viewing habits.

Are there underrated Hulu original series worth watching?

Some Hulu originals don’t get as much attention but are well worth watching. "11.22.63" is a time-travel drama based on a Stephen King novel that mixes suspense with historical fiction. "Dopesick" offers a compelling look at the opioid crisis with strong performances and a careful balance of drama and facts. "High Fidelity" reimagines the original film with a fresh take on relationships and music culture. "Devs" is a sci-fi thriller with philosophical depth and striking visuals, ideal if you want something thoughtful and cerebral. These series might not be blockbuster hits but deliver rich, engaging stories once you discover them.

What are common misconceptions about Hulu original series?

A common misconception is that Hulu originals are lower quality than those from Netflix or HBO. In fact, many Hulu originals have received critical acclaim and prestigious awards. Another myth is that Hulu originals are hard to find or less accessible—they are prominently featured and promoted on the platform. Some people assume Hulu originals focus mainly on comedy or light content, but the catalog includes a wide range from intense drama to dark thrillers. Lastly, many believe you need to watch multiple seasons to enjoy Hulu originals, but many are limited series or anthologies designed to be watched in a single season.

Conclusion

With this ranking and understanding of Hulu originals, you can confidently choose a series that fits your interests and viewing style. Whether you want gripping drama, sharp comedy, or something unique, Hulu offers quality options worth your time. Start with a top-rated show that matches your mood, and don’t hesitate to explore some lesser-known gems that might surprise you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Hulu original series only available on Hulu?

Yes, Hulu original series are generally exclusive to Hulu and aren’t available on other streaming services.

Do Hulu originals have multiple seasons?

It varies. Some Hulu originals are limited series with just one season, while others continue for multiple seasons depending on their popularity and story.

Are Hulu originals suitable for all ages?

Hulu originals cover a range of content ratings, often including mature themes. It’s best to check each show’s rating and description to make sure it fits your preferences.