"How to Die Alone" is a witty and thoughtful dramedy by Natasha Rothwell, starring Mel, a transport assistant at John F. Kennedy International Airport. The show explores themes of loneliness, accountability, and courage in the face of life's unexpected challenges. The show begins with an unseen interviewer asking real-life New Yorkers why people die alone, which are themes throughout the series. Mel's life is tumultuous when her best friend Rory (Conrad Ricamora) bails on their plans, causing her to confront her disappointments. Her finances are in shambles, and she has strained relationships with her mother, Beverly (Ellen Cleghorne), and older brother, Brian (Bashir Salahuddin). Her friend circle is nonexistent. An accident on the eve of her birthday leaves her in the hospital. Rothwell, known for her roles on HBO's "Insecure" and "The White Lotus," is highlighted in the show. Her work on these series earned her production company, Big Hattie Productions, a development deal with ABC Signature. "How to Die Alone" is Rothwell's first solo effort as a creator, skillfully crafted, anchoring important themes and conversations in comedic musings. "How to Die Alone" is a relatable and introspective series that explores the human experience of a passenger, Mel, who is stranded at JFK. The show features funny moments, such as Mel's rivalry with her co-worker Patti and the antics of her baggage-handler friends DeShawn, Shaun, and Terrance. The series also explores the positions we hold in others' lives, as Mel does. The standout episode, "Trust No One," takes Mel to Brian's home for Thanksgiving, highlighting the tension between her siblings and the interjection of their critical mother. The show also provides a glimpse into the complex inner workings of an airport, showcasing the moving parts needed for air travel. The show highlights the difference between being alone and loneliness, and how Mel struggles to reimagine her life and her dreams. The show emphasizes the importance of self-reliance and the need to rely on oneself for support.
