techxly@gmail.com
Look, stop what you are doing because I am literally shaking. Jake Johnson and Zooey Deschanel—yes, Nick and Jess themselves—are reuniting for a brand new Hulu series that is lowkey giving me life. It is reportedly inspired by the chaotic energy of Jim Carrey’s 1994 classic The Mask. I don’t know how they pulled this off, but honestly? It is the chaotic, hilarious content we all need right now. Let’s get into the details.
1. Nick and Jess are back, baby!
Can we just take a second to acknowledge that our favorite loft dwellers are officially sharing the screen again? It has been years since the New Girl finale, and I am not over it. Seeing Jake and Zooey in the same frame feels like a warm hug from 2012. I am living for the chemistry. If this show doesn’t have at least one scene of them arguing about something ridiculous, I will be so disappointed. Seriously, my heart can’t take this.
2. It is totally inspired by The Mask
Related Reading
So, the premise is reportedly a modern, gender-bent take on the Jim Carrey classic, The Mask. Imagine Jess finding that green mask and suddenly having the confidence to tell everyone exactly what she thinks. I am already picturing the outfits. It is going to be maximalist, loud, and absolutely unhinged. If it doesn’t feature a musical number in the middle of a bank heist, are they even trying? I am obsessed with this concept.
3. Hulu is the perfect home for this
Hulu has been absolutely killing the comedy game lately, and this show is just another win. With a 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes for their recent originals, I have full faith that they will let these two be as weird as they want to be. No network TV restrictions means we might actually get some of that classic, unfiltered banter we missed. It is going to be a total mood, I promise you.
4. The comedic timing is going to be elite
We all know Jake Johnson’s ‘grumpy guy who is secretly a softie’ energy is unmatched. Pair that with Zooey’s quirky, fast-paced delivery and you have comedy gold. These two could read the phone book and make it funny. I am expecting some iconic improv moments that will end up as reaction GIFs on Twitter for the next five years. Honestly, the banter is going to be the only thing keeping me sane this summer.
5. It is giving major nostalgia vibes
If you are anything like me, you probably spent your college years bingeing New Girl on repeat. This show feels like a spiritual successor to that era of TV. It is not a reboot—thank god—but it scratches that specific itch we have been feeling since 2018. It is nostalgic without feeling dated. I am already planning my watch party with snacks that are definitely not healthy. Who is with me?
6. The costume design will be iconic
If the show is channeling The Mask, the fashion better be absolutely insane. I want neon suits, oversized hats, and polka dots everywhere. Zooey is known for her classic style, so seeing her pivot into something wilder is going to be such a serve. I am already bookmarking items on Depop to recreate the looks. Expect a lot of ‘where did she get that?’ moments in every single episode. It is going to be a fashion moment.
7. The production value is looking high
According to industry sources, the budget for this show is significantly higher than your average sitcom. We are talking high-end practical effects for those ‘Mask-like’ transformations. Hulu is clearly betting big on this duo, and honestly, they deserve it. If they are spending the big bucks, I expect the visual gags to be absolutely top-tier. I want to see things flying across the room and people turning into cartoons. Let’s get weird with it!
8. The soundtrack is going to be a banger
You cannot have a show inspired by The Mask without an incredible soundtrack. I am manifesting a mix of 90s bops and modern indie tracks that fit Zooey’s vibe perfectly. I’ve already created a playlist in my head. If they don’t include a cover of ‘Cuban Pete’ in some ironic, hipster way, I will be genuinely shocked. Honestly, I’m just here for the vibes and the music curation. It’s going to be a total earworm.
9. It is a short, bingeable season
Hulu is sticking to an 8-episode format for the first season, which is perfect. It is short enough to watch in one weekend but long enough to actually get invested. I love a show that respects my time. No filler episodes, just straight-up chaos and character development. I am already planning to ignore all my responsibilities once this drops. If you need me, I will be on my couch, glued to the screen.
10. The supporting cast is stacked
The rumor mill is spinning with names of other New Girl alumni making cameos, and I am losing my mind. Could we see Max Greenfield? Or maybe Lamorne Morris? Even if it is just a blink-and-you-miss-it moment, the fans will go wild. I am literally praying for a Schmidt cameo to keep the dream alive. The synergy between this cast is legendary, and I need that energy back in my life immediately.
11. It is the perfect summer watch
With a mid-July release date, this show is going to be the official soundtrack to my summer. It’s bright, it’s loud, and it’s exactly the kind of escapism I crave when it’s 95 degrees outside. I’m already picturing watching this with a cold drink and zero plans. It is honestly the ultimate comfort watch in the making. Are you ready to fall in love with these characters all over again? Because I am.
12. We finally get the closure we didn’t know we needed
Look, I know they ended on a good note, but seeing them together again makes everything feel right. This project feels like a love letter to their fans. It is the chemistry we’ve missed, wrapped in a fresh, crazy package. I am so ready for this ride. If you aren’t excited, I don’t know what to tell you. This is the pop culture event of the season, no cap. Let’s get ready to watch!
FAQs
When does the new Jake Johnson and Zooey Deschanel show premiere on Hulu?
The show is currently scheduled for a mid-July 2026 release on Hulu. Keep an eye on Hulu’s official social media pages for the exact date announcement coming later this month.
Is the new Hulu show a reboot of New Girl?
No, it is not a reboot. It is an entirely new series with an original premise inspired by the 1994 Jim Carrey movie The Mask, though the duo is reuniting to star in it together.
Will other New Girl cast members be in the show?
While nothing is officially confirmed, there are strong reports of cameo appearances from other New Girl stars. It’s definitely a possibility that will keep fans guessing until the episodes drop!
Okay, I am officially counting down the days until this drops. I honestly think this is going to be the most fun show of the year. Are you as hyped as I am, or what? Let me know in the comments if you’re team ‘The Mask’ vibes! Don’t forget to share this with your fellow New Girl stans who need a win today.
