MATT BOMER, NATHAN LANE, NATHAN LEE GRAHAM: Bunny, Jerry and Arthur reunite at the funeral of their longtime friend, George, which inspires Bunny to invite Jerry and Arthur to live with him and his mother, Sybil, in his Palm Springs home. (Disney/Chris Haston)
The creators of Will & Grace, Max Mutchnick and David Kohan, are reviving the multi-camera sitcom format with their latest series, Mid-Century Modern. Starring Nathan Lane, Matt Bomer, Nathan Lee Graham, and the late Linda Lavin, the show follows three aging gay friends who decide to live together in Palm Springs after their friend’s passing.
Premiering March 28 on Disney+ in Canada and Hulu in the U.S., this comedy blends sharp wit, heartfelt moments, and an all-star cast, making it a must-watch for fans of classic sitcoms.
A Friendship Rekindled in Palm Springs
The series kicks off at a funeral, where Bunny (Lane), Arthur (Graham), and Jerry (Bomer) reunite to say goodbye to their longtime friend, George. Their banter begins immediately, setting the tone for the show’s signature humor.
"You don’t look sad, you just look like a reluctant bottom," Arthur quips to Bunny.
Each character brings a unique personality and background to the mix. Bunny, a successful bra retailer, has been living with his outspoken mother, Sybil (Lavin). Arthur, once a fashion editor in New York, and Jerry, a flight attendant and ex-Mormon from Atlanta, agree to move in together after Bunny suggests the idea. His pitch? Companionship, comfort, and someone to delete their search history when they die.
Their new living arrangement leads to a hilarious yet heartwarming exploration of aging, friendship, and second chances. The show also features guest stars like Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Cheri Oteri, and Rhea Perlman, with Pamela Adlon making regular appearances as Bunny’s sister.
Nathan Lane Was the Perfect Fit
Mutchnick and Kohan envisioned Nathan Lane in the role of Bunny from the very beginning. However, they weren’t sure if he would accept the part.
"You write for a Nathan Lane-type, and then you can’t believe it when the real guy shows up," Mutchnick said.
Having Lane at the center of the show set a strong comedic foundation, and his impeccable timing and experience shine throughout the series.
Matt Bomer’s Unexpected Comedy Gold
Known for intense dramas like Fellow Travelers and Maestro, Matt Bomer surprises audiences with his effortless comedic chops. The creators always believed in his potential, having previously worked with him on Will & Grace.
"His timing is impeccable, and he knows exactly how to deliver a character who could easily be overplayed," Kohan explained.
Bomer himself was eager for a lighter project. He wanted to be part of something that could touch on deep topics without becoming too heavy, adding depth to his character while keeping things fun.
A Farewell to Linda Lavin
Mid-Century Modern also marks the final role of beloved actress Linda Lavin, who passed away before the show’s release. In a touching tribute, her character Sybil’s death is written into Episode 9, mirroring real-life loss.
"It became the watershed moment of the series, just like life itself," Kohan shared, reflecting on personal losses that inspired the storyline.
Despite the bittersweet farewell, the show’s legacy of laughter and love makes it a fitting tribute to Lavin’s remarkable career.
