More than 30 years have passed since The Golden Girls graced television screens, yet its spirit continues to influence the comedy landscape, exemplified by the arrival of a fitting successor on Hulu. ‘The Golden Girls,’ an NBC classic created by Susan Harris, entertained audiences for seven seasons and 180 episodes between 1985 and 1992, setting a benchmark for sitcoms in the genre. Its monumental success is reflected through its iconic theme song, unforgettable characters, and a wealth of intertwining humor and heartfelt moments, securing its place among the greatest sitcoms ever.
Throughout its illustrious run, The Golden Girls earned an impressive 58 Primetime Emmy Award nominations, triumphing in 11 categories, including two prestigious Outstanding Comedy Series awards. Each of the remarkable main cast members — Betty White, Rue McClanahan, Bea Arthur, and Estelle Getty — received individual Emmy accolades for their outstanding performances.
Despite its conclusion, new audiences continue to discover this iconic show, primarily driven by streaming platforms. Generations younger than its original air time have embraced characters such as Dorothy, Rose, Blanche, and Sophia, connecting with them just as fans did from the 1980s to the early ’90s. Consequently, many viewers, upon finishing the series, seek out similar comedic offerings. Fortunately, starting March 28, 2025, Hulu will provide just the remedy for this nostalgia.
Mid-Century Modern: A Concept Reflective of The Golden Girls
The 2025 Sitcom Centers on Three Men Co-Habitating
Set to debut on Hulu, Mid-Century Modern is the brainchild of creators Max Mutchnick and David Kohan. The series focuses on “three gay men of a certain age” embarking on a life together as they decide to share a home. At the center is the wealthiest of the trio, who resides with his mother in the sunny enclave of Palm Springs, welcoming two companions into their shared living space. This premise mirrors the essence of The Golden Girls, making it an excellent contemporary counterpart.
| Mid-Century Modern Cast | Role |
|---|---|
| Nathan Lane | Bunny Schneiderman |
| Matt Bomer | Jerry Frank |
| Nathan Lee Graham | Arthur Broussard |
| Linda Lavin | Sybil Schneiderman |
While Mid-Century Modern draws parallels to The Golden Girls through its core cast of middle-aged characters and their living arrangements, it also shares a comedic tone and inviting settings—both series find their homes in vibrant locales (Miami and Palm Springs, respectively). The key difference, however, is that Mid-Century Modern’s story revolves around gay men, contrasting with the strong female presence of its predecessor. Those who enjoyed The Golden Girls are likely to find something to appreciate in this new series.
The Challenge of Living Up to The Golden Girls Legacy
High Expectations for the Hulu Series
Nevertheless, Mid-Century Modern faces a formidable challenge due to its obvious comparisons with The Golden Girls. The original series was celebrated for its exceptional cast chemistry, sharp humor, and skillful integration of significant social themes while maintaining a lighthearted tone. This set a high bar, making it undoubtedly intimidating for any new show to follow in its impressive footsteps. As a result, Mid-Century Modern must strive diligently to carve out its unique niche and establish itself as a deserving successor without leaning excessively on the legacy of The Golden Girls.