I’m LOVING the newest seasons of Big Little Lies (HBO) and The Handmaid’s Tale (Hulu). What the two shows have in common is that their first seasons are based on novels and any seasons going forward take the characters far beyond the books. And in both cases, the risk was worth it. I love what the shows’ writers have done with these beloved characters and storylines.
What else do these two shows have in common? Their newest seasons feature guest stars who are absolutely fantastic in complicated, layered roles. Meryl Streep is stirring up trouble on Big Little Lies as is Bradley Whitford in seasons two and three of The Handmaid’s Tale.
If you’re looking for some good summer television, start at the beginning. And I don’t often say this, but in both cases I think the shows are even better than the books. Yep.
As far as friendships in these shows: Big Littles Lies doesn’t start out with a classic group of friends, but by this season, which goes beyond the scope of the book, the women have all come together to protect each other. There is still a lack of depth to these friendships, in my opinion—even with the emergency circumstances. And Handmaid’s Tale is ALL emergency circumstances. Watching the women have to trust each other, whether they’re friends or not, is one of the most compelling parts of the show.
Latest posts by Nina Badzin (see all)
- #192 – Why Plans with Friends Don’t Happen—and How to Fix It - April 20, 2026
- #191 – The Case for Work Friends and Where to Find Them - April 13, 2026
- #190 – What Birthdays Reveal About Your Friendships (and Your Mindset) - March 29, 2026
- #189 – Andrew McCarthy on Male Friendship and the Power of Showing Up - March 23, 2026
2 Responses
I’m really enjoying Big Little Lies too!
Big Little Lies has been amazing. I don’t know how they’re going to wrap it all up in only two more episodes. Meryl Streep is beyond.