The fall TV season is in full swing, bringing with it a plethora of new shows vying for our attention. But while the big premieres grab headlines, a hidden gem of underrated shows is quietly waiting to be discovered on streaming platforms like Hulu. This month, we’re diving into a trio of series that showcase the platform’s diverse and compelling offerings, from quirky comedies to gritty Westerns and classic rom-coms.
First up, we have
’English Teacher,’
a fresh and funny comedy that premiered earlier this year on FX. The show centers around Evan Marquez, an openly gay English teacher played by the charismatic Brian Jordan Alvarez. Navigating the complexities of high school life, Evan faces a multitude of challenges, including a strained relationship with his ex-boyfriend, Malcolm (Jordan Firstman), and the awkward fallout of a public kiss. With his best friend and fellow teacher, Gwen Sanders (Stephanie Koenig), by his side, Evan navigates the minefield of teenage drama and high school politics. Rounding out the cast is the always-reliable Enrico Colantoni as the school’s principal, Grant Moretti, a character who adds a touch of gravitas and humor to the proceedings. ‘English Teacher’ is a delightful blend of witty dialogue, relatable characters, and sharp social commentary, offering a refreshing take on the familiar high school setting.For those seeking a more rugged and historically grounded experience,
’Hell on Wheels’
is a must-watch. This AMC series, starring Anson Mount, takes viewers on a gritty journey through the Wild West following the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad after the Civil War. Mount portrays Cullen Bohannon, a former Confederate soldier driven by a relentless quest for revenge against the man who murdered his family. The show paints a vivid picture of the era, capturing the harsh realities of life on the frontier. Alongside Cullen is Elam Ferguson (Common), a former slave who rises to a position of leadership among the freedmen. Their relationship is complex and nuanced, highlighting the societal divisions and simmering tensions of the time. Colm Meaney, another familiar face from ‘Star Trek,’ adds depth to the cast as the ruthless and ambitious Thomas ‘Doc’ Durant, who is determined to control the railroad’s destiny. The show keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its unpredictable plot twists and morally ambiguous characters. The ever-shifting landscape of power and opportunity on the railroad ensures that no one is safe from the consequences of their actions.Finally, we arrive at
’Moonlighting,’
a classic rom-com that helped redefine network television in the 1980s. This iconic series features a brilliant pairing of Bruce Willis and Cybill Shepherd, playing David Addison, a charming but reckless detective, and Madolyn ‘Maddie’ Hayes, a former model turned detective agency owner, respectively. The series’ unique blend of humor, mystery, and sizzling chemistry between the leads helped catapult Willis to stardom before his iconic role in ‘Die Hard.’ Their relationship is anything but conventional, a slow-burn romance complicated by the constraints of 1980s television. However, it’s precisely this unconventional dynamic that makes ‘Moonlighting’ so captivating. The show’s willingness to break the fourth wall and push boundaries made it a critical and commercial success, leaving a lasting impact on the television landscape.Whether you’re in the mood for a lighthearted comedy, a gritty Western, or a classic romance, Hulu has a hidden gem waiting for you. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready to discover these underrated series that deserve a second look.