‘The Hunting Wives’ Takes Netflix by Storm with a Cultural Commentary
“It’s noisy, it’s commercial,” Kevin Beggs, chair of Lionsgate Television Group, remarked about the new Netflix sensation, The Hunting Wives. A month post-debut, the show has captivated audiences, becoming a focal point in discussions surrounding America’s culture wars. This racy whodunnit, featuring glamorous Texan wives and a liberal outsider played by Brittany Snow, has struck a chord with viewers, revealing the complexities of political identities.
Originally adapted from May Cobb's 2021 novel, the series was greenlit by Starz in 2023. Following a corporate restructuring that separated Lionsgate and Starz into independent entities, Lionsgate reacquired the rights to the show. “It’s going right into the teeth of the gale but in a non-threatening way,” Beggs explained, emphasizing his commitment to bringing the show to screens.
Netflix quickly secured U.S. streaming rights, and with a “scrappily put together” marketing campaign, The Hunting Wives became an instant hit. It not only topped Netflix’s charts but also emerged as the most-streamed series across the U.S., according to analytics firm Luminate. While specific audience demographics remain unclear, Beggs noted that the show resonates with “all cultural perspectives.”
Suzanne Leonard, a professor at Simmons University, highlighted the series' depth: “It shows that [political] labels don’t get into what’s really going on with these women and their deep psychologies.” The narrative transcends superficial political affiliations, offering a glimpse into the characters' desires and family dynamics while maintaining an entertaining edge.
Creator Rebecca Cutter anticipated backlash from both sides of the political spectrum regarding the show’s portrayal of their views. Surprisingly, such criticism has yet to materialize. “I guess fun, sexy, murder mystery trumps political affiliation,” she stated. “Everyone can see themselves in this show…I wasn’t setting out to mock anyone.”
This nuanced portrayal of women—whether they lean right or left—adds to the show's appeal. Characters oscillate between kindness and cruelty, reflecting real human complexity. This refusal to adhere strictly to party lines, combined with unexpected plot twists, contributes to its watchability and freshness. As audiences navigate polarized times, The Hunting Wives offers a compelling narrative that resonates widely.
Ellie Austinellie.austin@fortune.com
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