‘How to Die Alone’ Canceled After One Season on Hulu; Creator-Star Natasha Rothwell Is ‘Baffled’ and Shopping Series Elsewhere (EXCLUSIVE)

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The comedy series “How to Die Alone,” written and acted by Natasha Rothwell, has unfortunately been terminated following its single season run on Hulu.

The television show titled “How to Die Alone” originated from Onyx Collective, a Disney brand that specializes in producing content by individuals of color and underrepresented communities. In November of 2022, Onyx approved the series for production, with its release happening in September 2024.

In a conversation with EbMaster, Rothwell expressed her surprise, sadness, and confusion over Onyx’s choice to cancel “How to Die Alone.” Despite low viewership reportedly being the reason for its non-renewal, Rothwell believes that the series was a significant critical, creative, and award-winning triumph. The show garnered a 91% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with EbMaster’s review praising it as “skillfully crafted” and Rothwell’s performance as “perfect.” Moreover, it won the Independent Spirit Award for ensemble cast in a new scripted series and has three nominations pending for NAACP Image Awards.

In her declaration, Rothwell made clear that she’s planning to share the book “How to Die Alone” on additional platforms, stating, “Representation isn’t merely about being seen — it’s about making certain that our narratives, our presence, and our cultural impact aren’t forgotten.

Titled “How to Live Alone,” the series follows Mel, played by Rothwell, a financially struggling, overweight Black woman working at JFK Airport who has never experienced love or pursued dreams. However, an unexpected near-death experience propels her on a life-changing journey to learn how to live and embrace opportunities, no matter the cost. Joining Rothwell are Conrad Ricamora, Jocko Sims, and KeiLyn Durrel Jones. Executive producers include Rothwell under her Big Hattie Productions banner, Vera Santamaria through her Welcome Stranger banner, along with Desiree Akhavan and Jude Weng.

Rothwell is primarily recognized for her performance in HBO’s “The White Lotus,” where she portrayed Belinda. Her role earned her an Emmy nomination during Season 1, and she will once again step into the character for Season 3, set to debut on February 16. Apart from this, she has also acted as Kelli while simultaneously writing and directing for HBO’s “Insecure.” Prior to these roles, she contributed to the writing team of “Saturday Night Live.

Apart from “How to Die Alone,” Onyx Collective also works on projects like “The 1619 Project” and “Reasonable Doubt.” Future releases will feature the comedy series “Deli Boys” and the documentary “Sly Lives! (or The Burden of Black Genius).” In the past, they have produced “The Other Black Girl” and “UnPrisoned.

See Rothwell’s full statement below.

I’m utterly stunned, deeply saddened, and honestly puzzled that Onyx has chosen not to proceed with another season of “How to Die Alone.” It’s hard to come to terms with this because the series is undeniably a hit in terms of critical acclaim, creativity, and awards.

This production that I’ve been working on for eight years has taught me the importance of resilience, and I refuse to abandon it. My team and I are determined to locate a fresh platform for “How to Die Alone,” as tales like these hold significance.

In these times, it’s crucial to have television content that amplifies voices seldom heard before, and focuses on hiring and casting choices that truly mirror the world’s diversity. Representation is not merely about being seen; it’s about guaranteeing that our narratives, our presence, and our cultural impacts are not effaced or overlooked.

In my own words, I find immense wisdom in Maya Angelou’s quote: “You might experience numerous setbacks, yet never let yourself be overwhelmed by them. On the contrary, these defeats could serve as crucial lessons, helping you discover your inner strength and resilience.

We are rising. And we are not done.

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2025-02-04 21:47