Why a show about gang rehabilitation became a critical darling on Hulu
In short: Created by Chris Estrada, This Fool offered a sharp, unsentimental look at cholo culture and the complexities of family life. Centered on a nonprofit worker and his recently released cousin, the comedy earned high praise for its relatable exploration of codependency and class before its cancellation after two seasons.
The series, which premiered on August 12, 2022, follows Julio Lopez, a 30-year-old man living in his childhood bedroom with his mother and grandmother. His professional life is defined by his work at Hugs Not Thugs, a Los Angeles-based gang rehabilitation center. The central tension of the show arises from his relationship with his older cousin, Luis, a former gang member who joins the program after serving an eight-year prison sentence.
Developed by Chris Estrada alongside producers Pat Bishop, Matt Ingebretson, and Jake Weisman, the show originated from a 2018 collaboration. The creators, who were previously involved in the Comedy Central series Corporate, brought a distinct comedic sensibility to the project. This connection extended to the screen, with Ingebretson and Weisman reprising their roles from Corporate in a guest capacity, and Adam Lustick appearing in a cameo. Fred Armisen also served as an executive producer for the series.
Critics responded warmly to the show's unique premise. Rotten Tomatoes recorded a 100% approval rating based on 13 reviews, while Metacritic assigned it a score of 76 out of 100. Reviewers highlighted the show's ability to balance humor with an honest portrayal of immigrant family dynamics. Alan Sepinwall, writing for Rolling Stone, praised the show's evolution, noting that while it had initial growing pains, it delivered standout episodes like 'Y Tu Julio También,' which explored the protagonist's pathological aversion to his own birthday.
Despite the critical acclaim and a nomination for Frankie Quiñones at the Independent Spirit Awards, the show's tenure was brief. Hulu renewed the series for a second season in November 2022, but ultimately canceled it on February 14, 2024. The series concluded its run on July 28, 2023, leaving behind a legacy as an 'uplifting' portrait of community that resonated with audiences beyond its specific cultural setting.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: This Fool
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