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Finding love after divorce is complicated enough. Add aging parents, a son who refuses to grow up, and the everyday chaos of being 50, and you have Youth, HBO’s new comedy series created by and starring Sharon Horgan.

Known for her sharp humor in shows like Catastrophe or emotionally honest storytelling in Bad Sisters, Horgan returns with a series that explores relationships, family responsibilities, and the unexpected challenges of middle age.

Sharon Horgan as Alex smiling during a gathering in HBO's comedy series Youth (2026)

What Is Youth About?

The story follows Alex (Sharon Horgan), a 50-year-old divorcee trying to rediscover romance and intimacy while balancing the demands of her family.

Between caring for her ailing parents and dealing with a son who should be finding his own independence, Alex has little time to focus on herself. Yet she’s determined to prove that turning 50 doesn’t mean giving up on love, excitement, or new beginnings.

Blending awkward situations with relatable family dynamics, Youth approaches middle age with humor rather than sentimentality.

Who Stars in HBO’s Youth?

Leading the cast is Sharon Horgan as Alex, alongside Rupert Friend as Patrick, Sharlene Whyte as Sam, Aran Murphy as Ruari, and Robbie Gee as Frank.

Horgan also serves as writer and executive producer. The series is produced by Merman, the production company behind Bad Sisters and Amandaland, with Dawn Shadforth among its directors.

When and Where to Watch Youth

Youth streams now on HBO Max.

The eight-episode season continues with new episodes on HBO and HBO Max every Sunday at 10 p.m. ET/PT, leading up to the season finale on November 1, 2026.

For viewers who enjoy character-driven comedy about imperfect people navigating complicated relationships, Youth offers a familiar but refreshing perspective: growing older doesn’t make life any less unpredictable.

Sources: Warner Bros. Discovery / HBO, Rotten Tomatoes