Peacock is set to release its new twisted romantic comedy series, “Laid,” starring Stephanie Hsu and Zosia Mamet, on Thursday, December 19, 2024. The streaming service recently dropped the official trailer, giving viewers their first look at what showrunners Nahnatchka Khan and Sally Bradford McKenna describe as a “f**ked-up rom-com.”
The trailer (above) introduces us to Ruby, played by Hsu, a woman who finds herself in a rather morbid predicament: her former lovers are dropping dead, and she’s the common denominator. To save them – and maybe find love in the process – Ruby must revisit her romantic past, aided by her best friend AJ (Mamet), who’s crafted a helpful “sex timeline” to keep track of all those exes. The series, based on an Australian original of the same name, is expected to blend classic romantic comedy tropes with a heavy dose of suspense and dark humor, judging by the trailer’s chaotic energy and quirky dialogue.
What immediately jumps out, beyond the intriguing premise, is the frankly ridiculous ensemble of guest stars. Prepare to spot Simu Liu, Kate Berlant, Alexandra Shipp, Andre Hyland, David Denman, John Early, Ettore “Big E” Ewen, Chloe Fineman, Olivia Holt, and Finneas O’Connell popping up throughout the eight-episode season. With a cast this stacked, “Laid” could be a lot of fun if the writing can keep pace.
The series is a co-creation of Nahnatchka Khan and Sally Bradford McKenna, who also serve as executive producers, taking on the high-wire act of blending romantic comedy with something much darker. It’s a tonal tightrope walk that often fails spectacularly, resulting in either saccharine fluff or grim cynicism. The trailer, at least, hints that ‘Laid’ might just find that sweet spot.
Stephanie Hsu appears more than capable of handling both the comedic and the more emotionally demanding aspects of the role. If the series can match its star’s energy and the apparent ambition of its creators, it might just avoid becoming another forgettable streaming blip.
The series is produced by Universal Television in association with Davis Entertainment, Fierce Baby, Porchlight Films, and All3Media International.
