Hulu’s Phony Becomes a Binge-Worthy Series, Officially a Streaming Sensation
A mystery after an accident
Phony centers on Sonny Cook, a teenager played by Sam Nivola. After an accident, he wakes up believing that his mother, Ellen, is no longer herself. Ellen, played by Connie Britton, is Sonny’s only parent and closest friend. Though Sonny is convinced an impostor has taken her place and may be dangerous, nobody else can see a difference.
Strong scores from viewers
The show has a 92% critic score and a 91% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting nearly equal approval from both groups. Fans and critics have responded to its unusual tone, comic moments and central mystery.
Nick Paley created the series. Its cast also includes Grace Brennan, Maliq Johnson, Colter Lee, Meera Syal and Mahaela Park.
Streaming rankings and reach
Phony ranked third among Hulu’s most-watched shows in the U.S. on FlixPatrol at the time of writing. It has also reached number one during periods when new episodes arrive on Tuesdays. The series is available on Disney+ outside the United States, where it has also performed well and placed in the top ten.
Key points
- Phony follows Sonny Cook as he suspects his mother has been replaced after an accident.
- Rotten Tomatoes scores stand at 92% from critics and 91% from audiences.
- The series ranked third on Hulu in the U.S. and has reached number one.
- Outside the U.S., Phony streams on Disney+ and has ranked in the top ten.