New HBO Comedy Series Breaks an 11-Year Record to Become an Instant Hit

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A new comedy series is quickly becoming a hit on HBO Max, breaking a ten-year record for the most-watched comedy premiere with 2.4 million viewers. The show’s success is probably due to its talented cast and clever writing, as it’s created by the team behind the popular show Scrubs, Bill Lawrence and Matt Tarses. Viewership has continued to increase since the series launched on March 8th.

Called Rooster, this new series features Steve Carell, Charly Clive, and Phil Dunster. It follows author Greg Russo (Carell) who travels to Ludlow College to speak to students, but his real reason for the trip is to check on his daughter. She’s going through a difficult breakup – her husband left her for a pregnant graduate student – and things quickly spiral out of control, involving fire and accusations of assault. Reviews have been mixed, with critics giving it a high 88% rating, while general audiences give it a 65% approval rating.

What Has Critics and Audiences Divided Over Rooster?

Early reviews of the series suggest its tone and speed are dividing audiences. While critics appreciate its clever writing and balance of lightheartedness with depth, some casual viewers find it cheesy and rushed, feeling it caters to short attention spans. Robert Lloyd of the Los Angeles Times points out the show’s appeal lies in its relatable, low-pressure storylines and generally gentle approach, describing it as fantastic and a little bit silly. This role also allows Steve Carell to showcase a different side of his acting, moving away from the broad, physical comedy he’s known for. The character of Greg Russo is intentionally ordinary, and that’s part of what makes him compelling.

It’s not that viewers who aren’t deeply invested are incorrect in their opinions. One viewer pointed out that the jokes felt unnatural and didn’t land because they weren’t believable. While acknowledging Steve Carell’s comedic style, they wished the lines had more room to breathe. Like many first episodes, the show’s pace felt a bit rushed. However, Rooster seems likely to continue, and with good reason – the rest of the season looks very promising, with stronger acting and more engaging stories ahead.

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2026-03-14 21:44