For a while, it seemed like the romantic comedy as an art form had died out, replaced by Marvel sequels and issue-driven dramedies. Rachel and Ross felt like a distant memory—and not just because it’s been twenty years. Fortunately, the genre—and our collective broken hearts—has been revived by a wave of new releases. Few have been as moving as Nobody Wants This (on Netflix from Thursday, October 23rd), the heart-racing story of Rabbi Noah and relationship podcaster Joanne.
When the first season debuted on Netflix last year, its success was somewhat unexpected. With the streaming giant often focused on easy-to-watch content, few anticipated a mega-hit that would forge a genuine emotional connection. Then we met Noah (played by millennial favorite Adam Brody) and Joanne (Kristen Bell), and the blend of acting, endearing characters, and sharp writing earned critical praise, Emmy nominations, and—most importantly—a dose of old-fashioned longing. The internet had a new boyfriend. Fleabag’s Hot Priest was old news; Hot Rabbi had arrived to save us. And he was a great listener who could also cook pasta.
Inspired by creator Erin Foster’s own experience of converting to Judaism for her husband, Nobody Wants This distills faith, family, and modern dating into 26 tightly-packed minutes. Alongside ex-girlfriends and formidable mothers-in-law, the couple faces a central obstacle: if Noah wants to become head rabbi, he must marry a Jewish woman. When we last saw them, they were at a crossroads: Noah had been offered his dream job, and Joanne selflessly left him so he could take it. Their final reunion and kiss in the street perfectly set up a second season, raising urgent questions: Will Joanne convert? Will Noah give up his calling? Will Noah’s mother murder Joanne when she finds out?
It says a lot about the slow pace of modern television that getting a second season just 13 months after the first feels like a real treat. All ten episodes were available for preview, but we were sworn to secrecy about key details—including a PDF listing seven specific plot points that couldn’t be revealed, along with restrictions on naming characters played by guest stars. (Fans already know that Leighton Meester, Brody’s real-life wife and Gossip Girl alum, has joined the cast, as has Seth Rogen.) I couldn’t help but wonder if state secrets were hidden behind Brody’s beard. Still, in an age where spoilers flood the internet as soon as a series drops, you have to applaud Netflix’s commitment to the art of surprise.
Without giving too much away, this new season finds the couple facing reality. It’s not that the honeymoon is over—the chemistry between Brody and Bell is as captivating as ever—but now that the romantic reunion is behind them, they must navigate the day-to-day challenges of a relationship spanning different cultures, religions, and friends.
One of the show’s strengths from the start has been its brilliant supporting cast, especially Joanne’s sister Morgan (Justine Lupe in a career-best role), Noah’s brother Sasha (Timothy Simons from Veep), and sister-in-law Esther (Jackie Tohn). It’s a pleasure to see each get more screen time. Fresh from discovering her husband had been platonically texting “whore number two,” Esther gets to show vulnerability, moving beyond the one-dimensional battle-axe wife we saw in season one.
As the two families begin to blend, different cast members get to interact more. I’d happily watch a spin-off entirely focused on Noah talking to Joanne’s newly out and self-absorbed father. The writers even manage to give Morgan and Noah’s mother a scene together. By the time half the family is squeezed into a shed in episode three, you find yourself wishing it were 2008 and we got 24 episodes a season.Let’s hope Netflix releases season three quickly and begins producing more brilliant, thrilling romantic comedies. Everyone is eager for more of this.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of helpful and concise FAQs about the new show Everyones Hooked
Beginner General Questions
Q What is Everyones Hooked about
A Its a new thriller series starring Kristen Bell and Adam Brody about a seemingly perfect suburban couple whose lives begin to unravel after a mysterious new family moves in next door revealing dark secrets and lies
Q Where can I watch it
A You can stream Everyones Hooked exclusively on
Q Is the show based on a book
A No Everyones Hooked is an original series created specifically for television
Q How many episodes are in the first season
A The first season has 8 thrilling episodes
Q Are new episodes released weekly or all at once
A The first three episodes are available now with new episodes released weekly every
Character Plot Questions
Q Who do Kristen Bell and Adam Brody play
A Kristen Bell plays Sarah a successful architect and Adam Brody plays Ben her charming husband Together they are at the center of the neighborhoods escalating drama
Q Without spoilers what makes the show so addictive
A The show masterfully blends suspense unexpected twists and relatable characters Youre constantly trying to figure out who knows what and who you can trust which makes it impossible to stop watching
Q Is the show more of a drama or a mystery
A Its a perfect blend of both It has the deep character relationships of a family drama but is driven by the central mystery and thriller elements
Practical Tips Viewing
Q Can I watch this with my teenager
A The show is rated TVMA for mature themes strong language and some violent content Its best suited for adult viewers
Q Im three episodes in and confused about s motive Should I rewatch
A Dont worry The show is designed to keep you guessing Small details become important later but you likely havent missed anything major Its often more fun to keep watching as the pieces fall into place
