609: Studying The Testaments

In episode 609 of Extra Hot Great: This Week In TV, the hosts dive into Hulu's spinoff series The Testaments, the sequel to The Handmaid's Tale. They discuss the show's fresh perspective through the eyes of Agnes, a Commander's daughter, and Daisy, a mysterious 'Pearl Girl' from Toronto, both navigating life under the oppressive regime of Gilead. While acknowledging the show's darker roots, the panel praises its teen drama energy, compelling performances—especially Chase Infinity and Lucy Halliday—and its nuanced world-building, though they critique the lack of racial diversity and overly simplistic color-coded uniforms. The hosts also explore the show’s narrative strengths, including its outsider perspective and more propulsive storytelling compared to the original series. The episode features a deep-dive into the final season of Hacks, with praise for its bold storytelling and emotional payoff, as well as a glowing review of the HBO limited series DTF St. Louis, lauded for its singular tone and standout performances. The episode concludes with a passionate case for the induction of Heated Rivalry Season 1 Episode 5 into the Extra Hot Great Canon, celebrated as a transformative, emotionally resonant moment that united fans globally. The hosts wrap up with a lively Game Time round, a winner/loser of the week segment, and a heartfelt tribute to Richard Lewis.