HBO is expanding its comedy lineup with Rooster, a new HBO Original series set to premiere on March 9, 2026, both on HBO and streaming via HBO Max. Created by Bill Lawrence and Matt Tarses, the show features 10 episodes, each lasting 30 minutes and stars Steve Carell, who also serves as an executive producer. Produced by Warner Bros. Television, Rooster continues the tradition of character-driven comedies, distinguished by sharp dialogue and complex relational dynamics.
The story unfolds on a university campus, serving as the heart of the narrative. Steve Carell plays a writer navigating a complicated, strained relationship with his daughter. The academic setting becomes the backdrop for tense exchanges, awkward emotional moments, and attempts at reconciliation, painting a portrait of a family bond tested by unspoken truths and shattered ideals.
The series seeks to explore the father-daughter relationship from a perspective that is both intimate and humorous, highlighting the clash between two generations that seem worlds apart. Authority, family legacy, and communication breakdowns form the core of the storyline, blending a tone that swings between bittersweet humor and social commentary.
Stars of the cast include Charly Clive portraying the daughter, alongside Danielle Deadwyler, Phil Dunster, John C. McGinley, and Lauren Tsai. They form a vibrant lineup of supporting characters who populate the campus, adding depth to the story through interactions with colleagues, students, and authority figures.
Rooster is a co-production by Doozer, the company of Bill Lawrence, with the participation of Jeff Ingold and Liza Katzer. The project also involves Jonathan Krisel, Barbie Adler, Annie Mebane, David Stassen, Anthony King, and Steve Carell. Both creators hold overall deals with Warner Bros. Television, highlighting the studio’s commitment to partnering with well-established voices in American comedy.
The tone is intentionally character-focused, emphasizing dialogue and everyday situations over pure slapstick comedy. Rooster appeals to viewers who enjoy relationship comedies, where humor emerges naturally from human contradictions and emotional vulnerabilities.
Rooster
Series | 2026
Season 1 drops on HBO Max starting March 9, 2026
Comedy | 10 episodes, 30 minutes each
Created by Bill Lawrence & Matt Tarses | Starring Steve Carell, Charly Clive, Danielle Deadwyler
Country: United States
With Rooster, HBO introduces a fresh take on contemporary American comedy, led by a legendary actor known for his work in the genre and by creators experienced in exploring complex human relationships. Promoted as an intimate and generational series, it relies heavily on the chemistry between its two main characters.
For a deeper dive, check out our curated list of HBO Max’s new releases for March, our guide to the latest streaming drops across all platforms, and today's featured picks in what to watch today in streaming.
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