Rooster

Rooster is a 2026 HBO comedy-drama starring Steve Carell as Greg Russo, a bestselling novelist who returns to a fictional New England liberal arts college, Ludlow, as a writer-in-residence. The story centers on Greg's efforts to support his daughter Katie while her marriage begins to unravel, setting off a mix of family tension, campus complications, and awkwardly funny personal revelations. The series leans into the emotional fallout of a father trying to reconnect with an adult child, while also using the college setting for gently satirical humor about academia, writing, and status. Early coverage describes it as a warm, character-driven show with heart, anchored by Carell's familiar blend of charm, self-awareness, and social cluelessness.

Critical reception for Rooster has been largely positive, with early Rotten Tomatoes coverage pointing to an 80% critic score based on 20 reviews and describing the series as a kind-hearted, enjoyable new comedy built around Steve Carell's performance and strong supporting work from Danielle Deadwyler. Rotten Tomatoes' critic roundup highlights praise for the show's humor and heart, while also signaling that the series fits comfortably within Bill Lawrence's optimistic, crowd-pleasing style. John Anderson of The Wall Street Journal called Carell's lead turn “likable, watchable and even lovable,” emphasizing the actor's classic persona and comic timing. Not every review was glowing: Variety's Aramide Tinubu offered a more skeptical take, arguing that the series can feel like a reworking of familiar themes and a role Carell has effectively played before. Overall, the reception suggests a show that many critics find pleasant, warm, and easy to watch, even if some believe it doesn't break much new ground. Audience-facing discussion so far appears similarly favorable, with the series drawing attention as a reassuring return to television for Carell and a strong fit for viewers who enjoy character-centered workplace and family comedy.