The trailer for Hulu’s new series, How to Die Alone, has officially arrived.
Created by and starring Natasha Rothwell (Insecure, The White Lotus, Wonka), the show follows Mel, a broke JFK airport employee who’s feeling down on her luck because she’s never been in love and fears she might end up dying alone. But then when she has a near-death experience that shifts her entire perspective on life, she begins a journey of self-acceptance and aims to finally start living to the fullest extent. The result is a relatable and tender show about loneliness, heartbreak, and hope, with a touch of fantasy and magical realism.
The cast also includes KeiLyn Durrel Jones, Jocko Sims, Bashir Salahuddin, and, for the How to Get Away with Murder fans, Conrad Ricamora.
To commemorate the trailer’s exclusive premiere on ELLE.com, Rothwell, who also serves as the show’s executive producer and co-showrunner, spoke to us about how she did it all—and how her experience working on Insecure, where she held various producing roles, prepared her for this moment.
Congratulations on your new show! How does it feel to be just weeks away from the premiere on September 13?
In a word, surreal. I’ve been working on this show for eight years and its existence is a literal dream come true.
When did the initial seeds for How to Die Alone first begin to take shape? And what drew you to this particular subject matter?
When I was given an opportunity to create my own show, I didn’t want to pull any punches. I wanted to run headfirst into what scared me the most and at the time that was dying alone—and more than that I wanted to explore the difference between being alone and being lonely. In facing my fears and in being vulnerable I believe I can help others be less lonely, too.
You’re the creator, executive producer, and also wrote two episodes. How did you balance all of those roles, in addition to also being the lead?
I can’t explain it, really. But I think that walking in my purpose and being in creative flow gave me the energy and resilience I needed to balance it all and enjoy every step along the way.
Was there anything particularly challenging, or rewarding, about wearing that many hats? Did working as a producer on Insecure prepare you for this project in any way?
I found the entire process incredibly rewarding and extremely cathartic. Being so involved in the process allowed me to protect, support, and champion my vision down to the last detail. Having a front row seat to Issa [Rae]’s creative journey was invaluable to preparing me for this moment.
Were you inspired by any other shows or movies while making this one? Any surprising references?
Fleabag was such an inspiration—it was so irreverent and honest, and I wanted emulate those qualities in a way that was authentic to my experience.
What went into creating your character, Melissa? What traits did you want her to have? And why JFK as her workplace?
The character of Melissa is a love letter to the unhealed version of myself. I wanted to create a character that wasn’t prescriptive or pinned in by societal or industry expectations. And JFK is such a beautiful microcosm of the world. A petri dish where people from all walks of life have to intersect. It’s also a place where we are our most aspirational and it felt like the right home for a character who is poised to take off.
Many know you for being extremely funny and witty. Will there be any comedic elements?
Absolutely, but a hallmark of the levity I’m known for is grounded, committed characters with humor that’s bookended with emotional heft. I want people to laugh until they cry themselves into an epiphany.
Let’s get into the cast. Can you speak a bit about some of the key players and their roles in the story?
To start, in no particular order, Conrad Ricamora (Mel’s best friend), KeiLyn Durrel Jones (Mel’s work bestie), Jocko Sims (Mel’s ex and boss), and Bashir Salahuddin (Mel’s brother) are just some of the key players that make up our world. I want to apologize in advance for how hot, talented, and perfect they are. Audiences need to brace themselves for the tidal wave of perfection coming their way.
Do you have a favorite episode or arc that you can tease?
Every episode is incredible, so it’s hard to choose. But I will say an element I’m so excited for the world to see is how we played with magic realism in every episode—allowing Mel’s internal world to expressed externally through fantasy pops that will delight and surprise audiences.
What can viewers expect from the series? And what are you most excited (or nervous) for them to see?
Viewers can expect to see themselves in Melissa and find in her someone they want to root for. I’m so excited for viewers to go on this journey with us. This is the most vulnerable piece of art I’ve put into the world, so I definitely have butterflies, but I honestly can’t wait to connect with people all over the world and heal our loneliness together.
Is there anything else you want to share?
Vote. Vote. Vote.
The first four episodes of How to Die Alone premiere Friday, September 13 on Hulu.
