Mindy Kaling's latest project, 'Not Suitable For Work,' is concluding its first season on Hulu with two new episodes airing June 23. This ensemble comedy, which explores the adventures of 20-somethings in New York City as they navigate their jobs and relationships, has generated buzz, especially with its unconventional nine-episode season format.
The decision to create a nine-episode season stems from Kaling's prior experience with 'The Sex Lives of College Girls.' She adopted this structure after noticing its effectiveness in other shows, particularly Danny McBride's 'The Righteous Gemstones'. Kaling’s innovative approach continues to challenge conventional streaming norms, allowing her to blend longer pilot episodes with standard half-hour formats, creating a fresh viewing experience.
Originally titled 'Murray Hill,' named after the Manhattan neighborhood where the show is set, 'Not Suitable For Work' underwent a significant rebranding. The title change was suggested to emphasize a more comedic and risqué tone, something Kaling acknowledges may not fully represent the show's content, which is light-hearted rather than overtly scandalous. Despite this, the show has consistently performed well, ranking high on Disney+/Hulu’s Daily Top 10, enhancing its chances for renewal.
Kaling reflects on the mixed responses to the title, admitting she is not particularly skilled at naming her projects. She recalls that feedback from industry peers, including Craig Erwich, played a crucial role in the decision to pivot from 'Murray Hill' to 'Not Suitable For Work.' This shift highlights the ongoing evolution of show titles in TV, often morphing into mere labels over time.
Fan reactions to 'Not Suitable For Work' have sparked discussions, especially comparisons to iconic shows like 'Friends.' Critics have noted similar setups, such as young adults living in upscale apartments while juggling dating and friendship dynamics. However, Kaling defends her show’s premise, arguing that the financial backgrounds of some characters—like investment bankers—make their living situations feasible, challenging the criticism that young adults wouldn’t afford such luxuries.
Looking ahead, Kaling expresses interest in evolving the show’s narrative, particularly in response to the title's implication of adult themes. She notes the balance of addressing relationship dynamics while maintaining a comedic tone may lead to more mature content in a potential second season. Kaling’s willingness to adapt could set the stage for even more engaging storylines, should the series receive a green light for another season.