"Gay Golden Girls" sitcom Mid-Century Modern cancelled after just one season
– 2 min read
Fans of the critically acclaimed sitcom Mid-Century Modern have expressed their disappointment following Hulu’s decision to cancel the show after just one season. The series, affectionately dubbed the “gay Golden Girls” by viewers, starred Nathan Lane, Matt Bomer and Nathan Lee Graham as three gay best friends navigating their golden years together in Palm Springs.
Co-created by Will & Grace’s Max Mutchnick and David Kohan, the show debuted in March 2025 and quickly garnered praise for its heartfelt storytelling, sharp humour, and celebration of chosen family. Despite earning an impressive 88% certified fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes and securing four Emmy nominations - including one for legendary director James Burrows - the show failed to secure a second season.
Mutchnick confirmed the cancellation via Instagram on Monday, writing: “Ten great episodes… Not enough. But we loved making every single one of them. We’re gonna miss our very special show. Thanks to everyone who watched.”
The news has sparked a wave of disappointment across social media, with many fans criticising Hulu and its parent company Disney for what they see as a short-sighted decision. “You get some of the best gay talent around (including NATHAN F***ING LANE), get a gay Golden Girls concept that works… and then you throw it in the trash after one season,” one viewer posted on X. Others have reportedly cancelled their Hulu subscriptions in protest.
The show’s premise - three older gay men forming a chosen family after an unexpected death - resonated deeply with audiences. Bomer’s character, a former Mormon outed by his ex-wife, Lane’s wealthy retiree, and Graham’s fashion industry veteran brought both humour and poignancy to the screen. The late Linda Lavin, who passed away in December 2024, played Lane’s mother in one of her final roles.
Despite its strong cast, glowing reviews, and cultural relevance, Mid-Century Modern reportedly struggled with viewership numbers and failed to break into Nielsen’s Top 10 streaming charts. Industry insiders suggest that low audience engagement may have been the deciding factor in Hulu’s decision to axe the show.
Fans and critics alike are mourning the loss of what many saw as a refreshing and necessary addition to the television landscape. As one fan put it: “There are hundreds of crap shows on all streaming platforms and these beautiful stories are ending. Not acceptable.”
