Shows on Hulu
Finding your next binge-worthy series has never been easier with Hulu's impressive streaming library that spans decades of television excellence. Whether you're searching for the best shows on Hulu to watch this weekend or looking to discover hidden gems you might have missed, this platform offers an incredible variety of highly-rated programming that caters to every taste. From beloved animated series that have defined generations to gripping dramas that have earned critical acclaim, from laugh-out-loud comedies that never get old to reality competitions that keep audiences hooked season after season, Hulu's catalog represents the very best of television across all eras. Our carefully curated selection of 21 top-rated shows streaming on Hulu right now highlights everything from long-running classics that launched in the late '80s and '90s to contemporary hits that are currently captivating audiences worldwide. These series have earned their place through exceptional storytelling, memorable characters, and the kind of quality that keeps viewers coming back episode after episode, making them essential viewing for anyone looking to maximize their Hulu subscription.
Watch a soft-spoken artist transform blank canvases into serene landscapes in real-time while offering gentle life wisdom is the simple but profoundly effective premise of this legendary instructional series. Bob Ross hosts each episode from his studio, demonstrating his wet-on-wet oil painting technique while encouraging viewers that anyone can create art. What could have been dry instruction becomes something almost meditative, as Ross's calming voice and positive philosophy turn painting lessons into something approaching therapy. The show never condescends to its audience or oversells the difficulty of what Ross accomplishes with seemingly effortless brushstrokes. Beyond technique, it's Ross's genuine warmth and his celebration of "happy little accidents" that have given the series enduring cultural relevance decades after its original run. It remains the gold standard for instructional television that understands teaching is as much about encouragement as information.
The devastating terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, unfold hour by hour through the voices of those who experienced them firsthand in this exceptional documentary series that honors both the tragedy's victims and the resilience of survivors. Through newly recorded interviews and rarely seen footage, the six-part National Geographic series reconstructs the day's timeline from early morning through the collapse of both towers, following firefighters, office workers, Pentagon staff, and flight passengers' family members. What distinguishes this documentary from other retrospectives is its immersive, chronological approach and its focus on individual human stories rather than political analysis. The testimony of survivors, first responders, and bereaved family members carries extraordinary emotional weight, creating a powerful historical record that ensures these experiences aren't forgotten. While emotionally demanding viewing, the series handles its subject matter with remarkable sensitivity and journalistic integrity. It stands as an essential document of a day that changed history.
Wickedly smart and visually electric, Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss's modern update of Arthur Conan Doyle's detective crackles with manic energy and inventive style. Benedict Cumberbatch inhabits Sherlock Holmes as a "high-functioning sociopath" whose brilliance borders on insufferable, while Martin Freeman grounds the series as the utterly endearing Dr. John Watson. Set in contemporary London, the adaptation cleverly updates classic cases with smartphones and internet culture without losing the essence of what makes these characters timeless. Each ninety-minute episode feels like a feature film, packed with stunning cinematography that visualizes Sherlock's deductive process in thrilling ways. Andrew Scott's Moriarty is deliciously unhinged, and the chemistry between the leads drives everything. The writing is sharp enough to match its protagonist's intellect, making this absolutely essential viewing for mystery lovers.
An alcoholic genius scientist drags his anxious grandson across infinite dimensions for increasingly dangerous adventures, and somehow this premise has spawned one of the most brilliant animated series ever created. Dan Harmon and Justin Roilich's Rick and Morty masterfully blends absurdist humor with genuine emotional depth, never afraid to deliver devastating character moments between the interdimensional chaos and sci-fi shenanigans. The show's willingness to experiment with narrative structure—from anthology episodes to serialized storylines—keeps every season feeling fresh and unpredictable. Justin Roilich voices both title characters with manic energy, while the supporting cast, including Chris Parnell and Sarah Chalke, grounds the family dynamics. The writing is razor-sharp, packed with clever references and philosophical questions disguised as crude jokes. Whether Rick is battling alternate versions of himself or the family is dealing with relationship drama, the series consistently delivers some of the smartest and most hilarious television available.
When a young boy named Monkey D. Luffy gains the power to stretch like rubber after eating a magical Devil Fruit, he sets out to find the legendary One Piece treasure and become King of the Pirates. This epic anime adventure from creator Eiichiro Oda has been sailing strong since 1999, and for good reason—it's an absolute masterclass in long-form storytelling. The series brilliantly balances humor, heart, and high-stakes action while building one of the most richly detailed fictional worlds in anime history. Each arc introduces memorable characters with genuinely moving backstories, and the crew's bonds deepen in ways that earn every emotional payoff. Yes, the episode count is intimidating, but the journey is absolutely worth it. The pacing improves significantly after the early arcs, and once you're invested in Luffy and his Straw Hat crew, you'll understand why fans have stayed devoted for over two decades.
Deceptively whimsical at first, this shonen anime transforms into something progressively darker and more sophisticated as it explores the journey of young Gon Freecss searching for his absent father. Madhouse's 2011 adaptation of Yoshihiro Togashi's manga is a masterclass in long-form storytelling, with each arc building complexity in both plot and character development. What begins as a straightforward adventure anime evolves into a profound examination of human nature, morality, and the costs of ambition. The Chimera Ant arc alone stands as one of anime's greatest achievements—a harrowing, emotionally devastating exploration of what separates humans from monsters. The voice acting in both Japanese and English is exceptional, and the animation remains consistently strong across 148 episodes. This is essential viewing for anyone who thinks they've outgrown shonen anime, proving the genre can achieve genuine artistic depth.
Greg Davies presides as the titular Taskmaster, with Little Alex Horne serving as his loyal assistant, in what might just be the most brilliantly absurd comedy panel show ever created. Five comedians compete each series in a delightfully ridiculous mix of bizarre challenges that range from "hide three aubergines from a Swedish man" to "make the best music video for a nursery rhyme." What makes this show absolutely spectacular is how it reveals the hilariously different problem-solving approaches of each contestant—some methodical, some chaotic, all entertaining. Created by Alex Horne, the format has spawned international versions, but the UK original remains peak comedy television. The tasks are inventive, the banter is razor-sharp, and watching grown adults argue passionately about whose potato-based creation deserves more points is unexpectedly compelling viewing that will have you binging episode after episode.
Nathan Fillion leads this brilliant space western as Captain Malcolm Reynolds, a charming rogue navigating the galaxy's outer rim aboard his beloved Firefly-class ship, Serenity. Created by Joss Whedon, this criminally short-lived series blends witty banter, lived-in sci-fi aesthetics, and genuine heart into something truly special. The ensemble cast—including Gina Torres, Alan Tudyk, and Morena Baccarin—creates a found family dynamic that feels authentic and deeply affecting. Each episode balances standalone adventures with serialized character development, exploring themes of loyalty, freedom, and survival in a 'verse where the Alliance's reach extends far but not everywhere. The Western-meets-space-opera setting provides endless opportunities for creative storytelling, while the Mandarin-peppered dialogue and lived-in production design make the universe feel remarkably real. Despite lasting only one season, Firefly's influence on science fiction television remains undeniable, proving that fourteen episodes can leave a lasting legacy.
When former Scientology member Leah Remini decides to expose the alleged abuses within the Church of Scientology, she creates one of the most powerful and revelatory documentary series in recent television history. Each episode brings forward survivors who share their experiences with the organization's practices, from alleged family disconnection policies to claims of harassment and intimidation. Remini's personal journey from devoted member to outspoken critic gives the series an emotional authenticity that pure journalism might lack, while co-host Mike Rinder, himself a former high-ranking Scientology official, provides insider perspective that proves invaluable. The series doesn't just document allegations—it creates a platform for voices that claim they were silenced for years. Brave, meticulously researched, and deeply human, this is essential viewing that sparked real conversations about religious organizations and accountability.
Darkly comedic brilliance defines this anthology series that uses the Coen Brothers' film as a spiritual foundation rather than a direct continuation. Creator Noah Hawley demonstrates remarkable skill in crafting interconnected crime stories set in and around Minnesota, each season featuring new characters caught in escalating situations of violence and absurdity. The cast across all seasons is exceptional—from Billy Bob Thornton's chilling hitman in season one to Ewan McGregor's dual performance in season three. Hawley captures the Coens' ability to find humor in human stupidity while never losing sight of the genuine tragedy underneath. The cinematography makes brilliant use of Minnesota's stark winter landscapes, creating an atmosphere where violence feels both inevitable and surprising. Each season stands alone while contributing to a larger meditation on fate, morality, and the American Midwest. The show respects its source material while carving out its own distinctive identity, resulting in some of the finest dramatic television of the past decade.
Irreverent, gleefully offensive, and somehow still running strong after nearly two decades, this comedy about terrible people doing terrible things in Philadelphia has carved out its own unique space in television history. Creator Rob McElhenney stars alongside Charlie Day, Glenn Howerton, Kaitlin Olson, and Danny DeVito as a group of narcissistic bar owners whose schemes inevitably backfire in spectacular fashion. What makes the show exceptional is its willingness to push boundaries while never asking you to sympathize with its protagonists—they're awful people, and that's precisely the point. The comedy is dark, absurdist, and frequently uncomfortable, tackling everything from social issues to personal delusions with equal satirical fervor. The cast's chemistry is phenomenal, with each actor understanding exactly how to play their character's specific brand of selfishness. It's comedy that refuses to play safe, and its longevity proves there's an appetite for humor this sharp and uncompromising.
In medieval Iceland and eventually across the North Atlantic to the shores of Vinland, young Thorfinn's journey from innocent child to revenge-driven warrior unfolds against the backdrop of Viking expansion and conflict. This anime adaptation of Makoto Yukimura's manga is exceptional, delivering both visceral action and profound meditation on violence, revenge, and redemption. The animation from studio Wit (later MAPPA) is consistently gorgeous, bringing weight and consequence to every sword clash while capturing the harsh beauty of Nordic landscapes. What elevates Vinland Saga beyond typical historical action is its willingness to complicate and challenge its protagonist's quest for vengeance, exploring the human cost of violence on both personal and societal levels. The character development is patient and earned, particularly as Thorfinn confronts what his pursuit of revenge has cost him. It's mature, thoughtful storytelling that respects both history and emotional truth.
The clash between Elizabeth Bennet's independence and Mr. Darcy's pride forms the foundation of this pitch-perfect adaptation of Jane Austen's masterpiece, and it remains the definitive screen version nearly three decades later. Jennifer Ehle and Colin Firth deliver career-defining performances, creating such palpable chemistry that their slow-burn romance practically crackles off the screen. Writer Andrew Davies and director Simon Langton understand that Austen's genius lies in her sharp social observation and wit, preserving the novel's dialogue while making it accessible to modern audiences. The six-episode format allows the story to breathe, giving proper attention to secondary characters and subplots that film adaptations must rush through. From the countryside of Hertfordshire to the grandeur of Pemberley, every frame is beautifully composed. This is simply exemplary period drama that honors its source material while creating something cinematic and thoroughly captivating.
When scientific evidence meets criminal investigation, truth emerges from the smallest details—and this documentary series proves that premise with absolutely riveting consistency. Each episode examines a real criminal case solved through forensic science, from DNA analysis to fiber comparison to blood spatter patterns. What makes the show exceptional is its clarity in explaining complex scientific concepts without dumbing them down, respecting viewers' intelligence while remaining accessible. The calm, methodical narration by Peter Thomas perfectly complements the analytical approach, letting the cases unfold like puzzles being methodically solved. The series never sensationalizes its often-disturbing subject matter, maintaining appropriate gravity while celebrating the scientists and investigators who bring justice through painstaking work. Whether you're fascinated by true crime or scientific methodology, this series delivers consistently compelling television that's both educational and genuinely gripping.
A family's past and present intertwine as the series follows the Pearson clan across multiple timelines, exploring how small moments shape entire lives. Creator Dan Fogelman assembles a strong cast including Milo Ventimiglia, Mandy Moore, Sterling K. Brown, Chrissy Metz, and Justin Hartley, asking them to navigate emotionally manipulative storylines designed to provoke tears. The show's ambition in structure—constantly jumping between time periods—is admirable, and certain episodes achieve genuine poignancy. However, the series too often mistakes sentimentality for depth, relying on calculated emotional manipulation rather than earned moments. The performances elevate material that frequently threatens to drown in its own importance. Brown's work as Randall particularly stands out. When the show trusts its actors and restrains its worst impulses toward melodrama, it can be affecting. But the constant reach for tearjerker moments and neat resolutions undermines the complex family dynamics it claims to explore.
Two brothers lost in a mysterious woodland realm must find their way home before winter arrives in this enchanting animated miniseries. Created by Patrick McHale, this Cartoon Network gem delivers a mesmerizing blend of fairy tale darkness and whimsical adventure across ten perfect episodes. Elijah Wood and Collin Dean voice the contrasting brothers Wirt and Greg as they encounter talking animals, troubled spirits, and peculiar townspeople in a hauntingly beautiful autumn landscape. The show's visual artistry draws from American folk traditions and classic animation, while its soundtrack weaves period-appropriate songs into an unforgettable tapestry. Each episode feels like discovering a forgotten storybook in an attic, filled with genuine emotion, surprising humor, and moments of real darkness that never feel inappropriate. This is essential viewing for animation lovers of all ages.
At its core, this gripping British police procedural explores corruption, loyalty, and the moral compromises that come with investigating your own colleagues. Created by Jed Mercurio, the series follows AC-12, an anti-corruption unit tasked with investigating potentially bent coppers within the police force. Martin Compston, Vicky McClure, and Adrian Dunbar form an exceptional trio as the dedicated investigators who must navigate complex cases where nothing is quite as it seems. The show's intricate plotting rewards careful attention, with each season building a case against a different suspect while contributing to larger ongoing storylines about institutional corruption. The interrogation scenes are particularly masterful—tense, dialogue-driven sequences that crackle with intensity. Mercurio's writing keeps you guessing until the final moments, delivering shocking twists that feel earned rather than gimmicky. This is addictive television that combines procedural excellence with character depth and social commentary about modern policing.
Set in contemporary Sydney, this dark Australian dramedy follows the double life of Ray Shoesmith, and it's an absolute revelation. Scott Ryan, who created and stars in the series, brings remarkable nuance to a hitman who navigates brutal contract killings alongside the mundane challenges of parenting, dating, and family obligations. The show's genius lies in its tonal balance—one moment Ray is casually disposing of a body, the next he's nervously meeting his girlfriend's parents or struggling to connect with his daughter. Nash Edgerton's direction keeps things grounded and authentic, avoiding both glorification and moralizing. The supporting cast, including Justin Rosniak as Ray's best mate Gary, adds depth to this singular character study that treats violence with shocking matter-of-factness while finding genuine comedy and pathos in the spaces between.
J.G. Quintel returns to voice Mordecai in this wildly entertaining collection of "lost" episodes that supposedly fell through the cracks during the original show's run. The conceit is delightfully meta—these are presented as recently discovered episodes from the Regular Show vault, complete with fictional behind-the-scenes context that fans will eat up. What's remarkable is how effortlessly the writing recaptures the surreal humor, genuine friendship, and random escalation that made the original series a cult classic. Whether Mordecai and Rigby are dealing with sentient video game cartridges or accidentally opening portals to dimension of living sandwiches, the absurdist comedy hits perfectly. William Salyers returns as Rigby, and the chemistry between the leads remains as strong as ever. The animation quality actually surpasses the original series, making this feel less like leftovers and more like a victory lap. For Regular Show fans, this is essential viewing that proves the creative team still understands exactly what made the series special—heartfelt slacker comedy that could pivot to cosmic stakes at any moment.
Absolutely wild, endlessly inventive, and hilariously unpredictable—Gintama is a comedy masterpiece that gleefully demolishes every anime convention while somehow honoring them all. Created by Hideaki Sorachi, this series follows Gintoki Sakata, a silver-haired samurai doing odd jobs in an alternate-history Japan occupied by aliens. What makes Gintama extraordinary is its fearless comedic range, seamlessly shifting from toilet humor and pop culture parodies to genuinely emotional storytelling and epic action sequences. Tomokazu Sugita voices Gintoki with perfect deadpan delivery, anchoring a cast of bizarre and lovable misfits. The series breaks the fourth wall constantly, mocks other anime shamelessly, and isn't afraid to dedicate entire episodes to absurd premises. Yet beneath the chaos lies real heart—character relationships deepen meaningfully, and dramatic arcs hit with surprising emotional weight. With over 360 episodes, Gintama rewards commitment with some of anime's most satisfying payoffs and gut-busting comedy that never gets old.
Hilariously irreverent yet genuinely educational, this British children's series transforms historical events into sketch comedy gold that works brilliantly for both kids and adults. Based on Terry Deary's bestselling books, the show features an ensemble cast performing musical numbers, parodies, and comedic vignettes that make everything from the Stone Age to World War II feel immediately accessible and entertaining. The "Horrible Histories" approach never dumbs down the facts—it presents the gross, weird, and fascinating truths about history that textbooks typically sanitize. Recurring segments like "Stupid Deaths" and historical music parodies become instant earworms while sneaking substantial knowledge into viewers' brains. The production values, writing quality, and performances are exceptional, earning the series multiple BAFTAs and proving that educational television can be genuinely appointment viewing. It's the rare show that makes you laugh while making you smarter.