The FX sitcom 'Adults' is gaining traction through its chaotic and hedonistic depiction of 20-something life in New York. After its second season debuted this summer, the show has been praised for valuing sincere friendship over career goals.
Moving past the 'Girl Boss' hustle of Hannah Horvath
The FX series 'Adults' marks a significant departure from the career-obsessed protagonists of previous decade-defining sitcoms. While the predecessor Girls focused on the "Girl Boss" energy and intense hustle culture of the 2010s—embodied by characters like Hannah Horvath and Marnie—'Adults' finds its humor in the aimless, hedonistic moments of youth. Instead of characters striving to be the "voice of a generation," this new ensemble finds connection in the shared experience of having nothing quite figured out.
This shift reflects a change in how television portrays young adulthood. Where earlier shows often centered on the professional aspirations and social climbing of their leads, 'Adults' leans into the "post-grad houseshare era ." It celebrates the time when life is defined by talking to friends or sending ill-advised texts rather than climbing a corporate ladder.
From raw chicken in Queens to Julia Fox cameos
Set largely in a squat within Samir’s family home in Queens, the show follows a group of 20-something New Yorkers navigating the messy reality of their mid-twenties. The report highlights the show's unapologetic edge, noting scenes that involve ketamine use and a guest appearance by Julia Fox. The narrative often centers on the small, hilarious failures of adulthood , such as a botched attempt by Billie (played by Lucy Freyer) to host a "grown-up" dinner party that results in raw chicken and general chaos.
The ensemble cast brings a sense of groundedness to the absurdity. From the "granola bro" Paul Baker, played by Jack Innanen, to the spirited Issa, the characters are bound by sincere affection rather than professional competition. As the report notes, the show avoids trying too hard to impart heavy-handed lessons, opting instead to find comedy in the inevitable humiliations of youth.
Why 49% of Gen Z views work differently than Millennials
The lack of career-driven tension in 'Adults' mirrors a broader sociological shift in how different generations view their professional identities. According to the report, recent statistics show that only 49% of Gen Z see work as cetnral to their identity, a notable decrease compared to the 62% of millennials who hold that view. This makes the show's focus on leisure and friendship feel particularly resonant for a modern audience.
This vibe is closely linked to the "millennial optimism" movement and the "indie sleaze" aesthetic currently resurfacing on platforms like TikTok. The show’s theme song, “Bad Advice” by bby , evokes this nostalgic feeling. By focusing on the joy of aimless days rather than the pressure of the workplace, the series taps into a sense of hope that feels both current and comforting.
Will a third season deliver a Mayor Mamdani cameo?
With the second season already proving to be a hit, the future of the series remains a topic of intense speculation. While a third season seems likely given its popularity, several questions remain regarding the show's trajectory. Most notably, there is already talk among fans and industry observers about a potential cameo by Mayor Mamdani.
Whether the show can successfully navigate its transition into a third season while maintaining its unique comedic voice is yet to be seen. for now, viewers are left wondering if the "hopecore" energy of the series will continue to grow and if the rumored collaborations will actually materialize on screen.
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