Streaming platforms like Hulu are packed with incredible content, but with so many options, it’s easy for some of the best limited series to slip under the radar. These hidden gems often deliver powerful storytelling, unforgettable performances, and tight narratives—all without overstaying their welcome. If you’re looking for binge-worthy shows that won’t demand a long-term commitment, here are the best limited series on Hulu you might have missed.
1. The Act: A Chilling True Crime Drama
Based on a shocking true story, The Act explores the disturbing relationship between Dee Dee Blanchard and her daughter Gypsy Rose. Patricia Arquette delivers an Emmy-winning performance as Dee Dee, a mother who fabricates her daughter’s illnesses for attention and financial gain. Joey King shines as Gypsy Rose, whose desperate bid for freedom leads to unthinkable consequences.
This eight-episode series is a masterclass in tension and psychological drama. The writing is sharp, the performances are gripping, and the story will leave you questioning the boundaries of love and manipulation. If you’re a fan of true crime or psychological thrillers, The Act is a must-watch.
Why You Should Watch:
- Outstanding performances by Patricia Arquette and Joey King
- A haunting true story that’s stranger than fiction
- Tight, suspenseful storytelling that keeps you hooked
2. Dopesick: A Harrowing Look at the Opioid Crisis
Michael Keaton leads an all-star cast in Dopesick, a gripping limited series that exposes the greed and corruption behind America’s opioid epidemic. The show shifts between multiple timelines, revealing how Purdue Pharma’s aggressive marketing of OxyContin devastated communities across the country.
With its powerful performances and unflinching storytelling, Dopesick is both heartbreaking and infuriating. Keaton’s portrayal of a small-town doctor struggling with addiction is particularly moving. This series doesn’t just entertain—it educates and demands accountability.
Why You Should Watch:
- Michael Keaton’s Emmy-winning performance
- A devastating yet necessary exploration of the opioid crisis
- Expertly crafted narrative with multiple perspectives
3. Little Fires Everywhere: A Story of Secrets and Privilege
Starring Reese Witherspoon and Kerry Washington, Little Fires Everywhere is a riveting drama about motherhood, race, and class in 1990s suburban America. Based on Celeste Ng’s bestselling novel, the series follows two families whose lives become dangerously intertwined.
Witherspoon plays Elena Richardson, a wealthy perfectionist, while Washington portrays Mia Warren, an enigmatic artist with a troubled past. Their clash exposes deep-seated prejudices and hidden truths. With its lush cinematography and stellar performances, this limited series is a thought-provoking exploration of identity and privilege.
Why You Should Watch:
- Reese Witherspoon and Kerry Washington’s electric chemistry
- A layered, emotionally charged storyline
- Beautifully shot with a nostalgic ’90s aesthetic
4. Normal People: A Deeply Intimate Love Story
Adapted from Sally Rooney’s acclaimed novel, Normal People follows the turbulent relationship between Marianne and Connell, two Irish teens navigating love, class, and personal growth. Daisy Edgar-Jones and Paul Mescal deliver breathtaking performances, capturing the raw vulnerability of young love.
This series is a quiet yet powerful exploration of human connection. The chemistry between the leads is palpable, and the storytelling is both tender and heartbreaking. If you enjoy character-driven dramas with emotional depth, Normal People is an unforgettable experience.
Why You Should Watch:
- Daisy Edgar-Jones and Paul Mescal’s breakout performances
- A realistic, poignant portrayal of love and heartbreak
- Stunning cinematography and a haunting soundtrack
5. Mrs. America: A Battle for Women’s Rights
Cate Blanchett stars as conservative activist Phyllis Schlafly in Mrs. America, a gripping limited series about the fight for the Equal Rights Amendment in the 1970s. The show also highlights feminist icons like Gloria Steinem, Betty Friedan, and Shirley Chisholm, played by an incredible ensemble cast.
With its sharp writing and powerhouse performances, Mrs. America offers a nuanced look at one of the most contentious periods in American feminism. Blanchett is mesmerizing as Schlafly, making her both formidable and strangely sympathetic. This series is a must-watch for history buffs and political drama fans alike.
Why You Should Watch:
- Cate Blanchett’s commanding performance
- A star-studded cast portraying real-life feminist leaders
- Relevant themes that resonate today
Conclusion
Hulu’s library is filled with incredible limited series that deserve more attention. Whether you’re in the mood for a chilling true crime story like The Act, a devastating exposé like Dopesick, or a tender love story like Normal People, these hidden gems offer something for everyone. So grab your remote, settle in, and discover these unforgettable shows before they slip away again.