How to Die Alone follows Mel, a Black, plus-sized JFK airport employee who has never been in love and has lost her sense of hope and ambition. After a near-death experience shakes her to her core, Mel decides it's time to radically change her life and start living with no regrets. The series chronicles her journey of self-discovery and reinvention as she tackles personal challenges, explores new relationships, and takes bold risks in an attempt to find love and meaning. Created by and starring Natasha Rothwell, How to Die Alone is a blend of sharp humor and raw emotion, offering a fresh take on what it means to embrace life when you’ve hit rock bottom. Through Mel’s often messy and hilarious encounters with friends, exes, and co-workers, the series explores themes of loneliness, self-worth, and personal growth, delivering a relatable story of transformation.
How to Die Alone is a 2024 American comedy series created by and starring Natasha Rothwell. The show revolves around Mel, a woman who's never been in love, and how a near-death experience pushes her to radically change her life. Alongside Rothwell, the series stars Conrad Ricamora, Jocko Sims, and KeiLyn Durrel Jones. The show premiered on Hulu on September 13, 2024, with episodes released weekly.
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Created by Natasha Rothwell (Insecure, The White Lotus), How to Die Alone is a heartfelt yet sarcastic exploration of life and its complexities. The series was produced by Disney’s Onyx Collective in partnership with ABC Signature, and Big Hattie Productions. The show was co-created with Vera Santamaria, and the diverse cast, paired with the sharp writing, offers a fresh perspective on familiar themes like self-love, loneliness, and the pursuit of happiness.
Natasha Rothwell has stated that she wanted to dig deep into the difference between being alone and feeling lonely, using her signature style of blending humor with difficult life topics. The show was first announced in November 2022 and greenlit for an eight-episode season. Filming took place through 2023, with Rothwell leading a talented ensemble cast.
Since its premiere, How to Die Alone has been well-received by critics for its bold humor and heartfelt storytelling.
On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 90% rating, with critics praising Rothwell’s performance and the relatable, unfiltered nature of the show. Reviewers have noted the sharp dialogue and mix of biting humor with more tender moments. Critics have also highlighted the excellent character development and the way the show deftly balances the heavier themes with its comedic elements.
According to Variety, "Rothwell's first solo effort as a creator is skillfully crafted, anchoring important themes and conversations in comedic musings." The show has been lauded for its authentic humor and for tackling difficult subjects in a refreshing way.