Parents' Guide to How to Die Alone

TV Hulu Comedy 2024
How to Die Alone TV show poster: Natasha Rothwell stands on a tarmac, in an airport uniform. A plane takes off above her.

Common Sense Media Review

By Ty'Kira Smalls , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 15+

Lots of swearing in emotional, existential airport comedy.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 15+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

age 13+

Based on 1 parent review

What's the Story?

Melissa (Natasha Rothwell) just learned HOW TO DIE ALONE. Working at the airport, Melissa has come to terms with the fact she's broke and her love life is a joke. Even when she gets news that her ex-boyfriend (who's also her manager) is getting married, Melissa is focused on celebrating her birthday with best friend Rory (Conrad Ricamora). Things only get worse as she gets in trouble at work, and Rory bails on her birthday weekend. Taking it in stride, Melissa celebrates herself alone in her apartment, but when an armoire she builds tips onto her, Melissa dies for three minutes. She wakes up in the hospital alone, regretful, and reflective. She's not going to fumble her life twice.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 1 ):
Kids say : Not yet rated

This series explores death and life through a comedic, raw lens. How to Die Alone is funny, existential, and emotional. The physical comedy and wit are cut with vulnerability and tenderness. Rothwell and Ricamora's performances are poignant, powerful, and hilarious. Characters are offbeat and charismatic, and conversations are topical. It's obvious that this show was as fun to make as it is to watch. The language, violence, sexual content, and drug use makes this suitable for older teens.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how Natasha Rothwell created, wrote, and stars in How to Die Alone. How often do actors write their own material? What are the advantages of doing so?

  • How do characters portray teamwork? Perseverance? Courage? What are these important character strengths?

TV Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by

How to Die Alone TV show poster: Natasha Rothwell stands on a tarmac, in an airport uniform. A plane takes off above her.

What to Watch Next

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

See how we rate