Natasha Rothwell, known for her hilarious roles in shows like ‘Insecure’ and ‘The White Lotus’, is taking on a new challenge: creating, producing, and starring in her own comedy series, ‘How to Die Alone’. Premiering on Hulu on September 13th, the show is a culmination of eight years of work and a personal project that Rothwell describes as a love letter to the unhealed parts of herself.
‘How to Die Alone’ follows Mel, a 30-something airport employee who finds herself facing her own mortality after a near-death experience. The show explores themes of loneliness, friendship, and the search for love, with a dash of magical realism thrown in. Rothwell emphasizes the importance of embracing solitude and finding love within oneself before seeking it externally, a lesson she learned through her own journey of self-discovery.
The inspiration for ‘How to Die Alone’ stemmed from a deeply personal experience. Rothwell reveals that a close friend’s passing from cancer prompted her to confront her own anxieties about unsaid words and the fear of conflict. This wake-up call led her to send out a flurry of unsent emails, a symbolic act of embracing vulnerability and taking ownership of her own voice.
Rothwell, who spent eight years in New York City, draws inspiration from the city’s hierarchical nature and the often-invisible lives of those who keep the city running. She intentionally portrays Mel and her fellow airport employees as individuals who find joy and purpose in their work, challenging the stereotype of those in service-oriented roles as unambitious or lacking dreams.
The show also delves into the complexities of family relationships, particularly between siblings, with a standout episode focusing on Mel’s relationship with her brother, Brian, played by Bashir Salahuddin. Rothwell emphasizes the importance of seeing family members as individuals who have evolved and changed over time, rather than holding onto past perceptions.
‘How to Die Alone’ promises to be a deeply personal and relatable show that delves into the universal experience of searching for connection and self-acceptance. Rothwell’s willingness to share her own vulnerabilities and celebrate the everyday heroes who keep the world running adds depth and authenticity to the story. As she prepares for the show’s premiere, Rothwell expresses her hope that ‘How to Die Alone’ will spark conversations about loneliness, encourage viewers to embrace their own growth, and ultimately, remind them that they are not alone in their journey.
