Why Hulu remains a strong choice for streaming in 2024
Hulu remains a top streaming choice for viewers who want a balanced mix of current-season hits, reliable back catalogs, and originals that cater to different tastes. With a catalog that blends licensed series from broadcast and cable with Hulu Originals, the platform gives you many paths to build an appealing lineup. This guide focuses on the best shows to watch on Hulu, how plans and add-ons work, and how key originals compare so you can decide quickly what to watch next.
Understanding Hulu plans and how they affect what you can watch
Hulu offers a small number of clear options, which makes it easier to choose than platforms with many tiers. Plans include a ad-supported option, an ad-light option, and an ad-free option; each changes which shows you can watch and how you watch them. Live TV and add-ons such as HBO Max or ESPN+ are also available in some regions, and these heavily influence what you can stream, download, or watch on multiple devices. Knowing the differences helps you pick the right plan for your budget and expectations.
Hulu plan overview at a glance
| Plan | Advertising | Access to live TV | Typical price range (USD, monthly) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic with ads | Yes | No | About $30–40 |
| Standard with limited ads | Reduced | About $40–55 | |
| No ads | None | Optional add-on | About $60–70; lower with bundles |
| With Live TV (if available) | Varies | Yes | About $60–70 plus add-ons |
Notable originals across genres on Hulu
Hulu Originals span several genres and often experiment with format, tone, and length. Some series build long-term story arcs, while others are concise limited series designed for bingeing or focused event viewing. Below are standout originals that many viewers consistently highlight when looking for the best shows to watch on Hulu.
Drama and suspense originals
Drama and suspense originals on Hulu tend to emphasize tight pacing and serialized storytelling. These series often attract strong performances and distinctive visual approaches, making them easy to spot on the service. If you prefer slow-burn mysteries or emotionally driven character studies, these originals are worth exploring first.
- The Handmaid’s Tale: A long-running dystopian drama that remains Hulu’s most prominent prestige series, with multiple seasons and strong critical recognition.
- Only Murders in the Building: A comedy-mystery that blends humor, true crime obsession, and neighborly intrigue across seasons.
- Black Cake: A drama about family legacy and identity, based on the novel by Charmaine Wilkerson, with a distinctive narrative structure.
Comedy and genre hybrids
Hulu also offers comedies and genre hybrids that mix tones in ways traditional networks rarely attempt. These shows often appeal to viewers who want laughs alongside tension or social commentary. They can be ideal for shorter binge sessions or for easing into heavier drama later.
- Reservation Dogs: A heartfelt, humorous coming-of-age drama centered on Indigenous teens in Oklahoma.
- Shrill: A comedy-drama about body, ambition, and autonomy, anchored by a distinctive lead performance.
- How I Met Your Father: A reboot-style sitcom that revisits the familiar framework with updated jokes and representation.
How Hulu originals compare to licensed series on the platform
Licensed series on Hulu cover a wide range of eras and genres, from broadcast stalwarts to cable favorites. These shows fill gaps between Originals and give you access to beloved long-running programs that you may have missed. Understanding the trade-offs between Originals and licensed titles can help you choose whether to lean on Hulu alone or pair it with other services.
Originals vs. licensed series at a glance
| Attribute | Hulu Originals | Licensed series | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Availability window | Typically exclusive for 12–24 months before licensing shifts | May leave after licensing deals expire | Plan timing if you want to finish a series on Hulu |
| Content focus | New IP, event seasons, experimentation | Established hits, back catalogs, reruns | Originals for discovery; licensed for breadth |
| Typical cost impact | Included in ad and no-ads tiers; no extra fee | Included in subscription; no extra fee unless add-on required | Budget predictability with base plan |
How to evaluate which shows are best for your tastes on Hulu
With a large catalog, using a simple filtering approach works better than scrolling randomly. Decide whether you prioritize genre, tone, episode length, or franchise potential, then narrow by what your plan supports. Originals are a reliable way to explore Hulu’s distinct offerings, while licensed series can satisfy nostalgia or completist urges.
Quick selection checklist
- Genre first: comedy, drama, thriller, sci-fi, or reality.
- Time commitment: limited series versus ongoing multi-season shows.
- Tone: lighthearted, intense, experimental, or nostalgic.
- Cast or creator appeal: follow known names you enjoy.
- Availability: check if a show is exclusive or might leave soon.
Maximizing value and minimizing interruptions on Hulu
To get the most from Hulu, align your plan with how you actually watch. If ads distract you, consider the ad-light or no-ads tiers, especially for series you plan to binge. Add-ons like HBO Max can expand your library in a single bill if you value variety. Regularly checking for new Originals and expiring licenses helps you time your viewing so you do not miss shows before they rotate out.
Bottom line on the best shows to watch on Hulu right now
Hulu’s mix of originals and licensed series keeps it relevant for viewers who want both reliable hits and new experiments. By matching your preferences to the platform’s strengths—strong dramas like The Handmaid’s Tale, tight comedies-mysteries like Only Murders in the Building, and flexible plan options—you can build a sustainable lineup without overpaying. Use plan and catalog awareness to stay in control of what, when, and how you watch.