Hulu’s latest comedic venture, Mid-Century Modern, emerges from the creative minds of renowned sitcom creators Max Mutchnick and David Kohan. The series focuses on three middle-aged gay men—portrayed by the talented Nathan Lane, Nathan Lee Graham, and Matt Bomer—as they navigate life together in the vibrant resort city of Palm Springs, California. Adding an intriguing twist to the storyline, they are moving in with the mother of Lane’s character, played by the late and beloved Linda Lavin. As the show currently comprises only one season and 10 episodes, fans are already on the lookout for their next comedic escape.
In light of this, the influences of iconic creators like Mutchnick and Kohan—as well as the classic shows that inspired Mid-Century Modern—become vital. The show has garnered enthusiastic acclaim for its sharp humor and endearing farce. With a commendable score on Rotten Tomatoes, it stands as a benchmark for contemporary sitcoms. Yet, its comedic flair does not exist in a vacuum; it cleverly builds upon established trends in television comedy, many of which the show’s creators have previously explored.
1. The Golden Girls
Hulu & Disney+
The classic 1980s sitcom The Golden Girls serves as a prominent source of inspiration for Mid-Century Modern. Like its counterpart, this beloved comedy revolves around three adults who share a home with one of their mothers. However, while Mid-Century Modern features three male leads, The Golden Girls showcases an all-female cast.
This new series often playfully twists and subverts the premise of its predecessor, allowing for a unique comedic take that mirrors the dynamics of the original. Fans of both shows will likely notice the humorous parallels between characters and situations. Just as Mid-Century Modern boasts an impressive cast including Lane, Bomer, and Lavin, The Golden Girls features beloved icons like Betty White and Bea Arthur.
2. Will & Grace
Hulu
If The Golden Girls inspired the overarching premise of Mid-Century Modern, then the iconic sitcom Will & Grace provides the comedic blueprint. This groundbreaking show centers on the lives of two roommates, a gay man and a straight woman, whose personalities often clash amusingly.
Interestingly, in the revival of Will & Grace, Matt Bomer—who stars in Mid-Century Modern—plays Will’s love interest, McCoy Whitman. Viewers familiar with the humor of Will & Grace will find a comforting rhythm in Mid-Century Modern, although the two series differ significantly in setting and character age demographics.
3. Gilmore Girls
Netflix
While Gilmore Girls may not have as direct a connection to Mid-Century Modern as the previous two shows, both series share underlying themes of familial relationships. The special bond between mother-daughter duo Lorelai and Rory Gilmores resonates alongside Bunny’s relationship with his mother, a central focus of the first season.
The witty and whimsical nature of the elder Lorelai’s best friend, Sookie St. James, brings to mind the camaraderie shared between Bunny, Jerry, and Arthur. Gilmore Girls is an excellent choice for fans of Mid-Century Modern who are seeking a similar vibe without repeating the exact narrative.
4. Modern Family
Hulu & Disney+
Offering a contrasting approach, Modern Family brings a distinct flavor to the table while showcasing a dynamic similar to that of Mid-Century Modern. The relationship between the gay couple, Cam and Mitch, reflects profound affection, yet is infused with comedic moments borne from their sensitivity toward one another. Their antics yield some of the most memorable humor in the series.
Cameron, with his flamboyant personality, is reminiscent of the trio of Bunny, Arthur, and Jerry. Notably, Nathan Lane makes an appearance in Modern Family as Pepper, a friend who rivals the flamboyance of Sofia Vergara’s character.
5. Uncoupled
Netflix
Though it only lasted one season, Netflix’s Uncoupled, featuring Neil Patrick Harris, offers compelling entertainment that aligns well with Mid-Century Modern. This sitcom revolves around a middle-aged gay man, Michael Lawson, who struggles to adapt to the dating landscape after being out of the game for 17 years.
While Uncoupled adopts a single-camera format and a quirkier approach, it mirrors the romantic escapades of Bunny, Arthur, and Jerry in Mid-Century Modern. Fans seeking a comedy infused with romance will find Uncoupled to be a perfect follow-up to their viewing experience.