AceShowbiz - Paradise has earned high praise from acclaimed author Stephen King, who describes it as the "closest thing on TV to Lost." Following the season 2 finale on March 30, 2026, King reaffirmed his admiration for the Hulu sci-fi thriller, highlighting its improvements and strong storytelling.

After the penultimate episode, Stephen King commented that the second season of Paradise was "even better" than the first—a rare achievement in television. He applauded the show's compelling acting, tight narrative, natural dialogue, and avoidance of clichés, emphasizing how the series successfully builds on its original foundation. This endorsement deeply resonated with creator Dan Fogelman, who expressed his excitement on Instagram, captioning his post, "Pick me up off the floor."

Shortly after the season 2 finale, King shared a review from fellow author Linwood Barclay, who stated, "Great season finale for Paradise. This show is the closest thing on TV right now to Lost," further solidifying the series’ reputation among literary and entertainment circles.

The story of Paradise begins in an underground bunker located in Colorado, set three years after a catastrophic doomsday event. The plot centers on Secret Service agent Xavier Collins, portrayed by Sterling K. Brown, as he investigates the assassination of the president. Season 2 broadens the scope by moving beyond the bunker, following Collins’ search for his missing wife in the outside world.

The main cast includes Julianne Nicholson, Sarah Shahi, Nicole Brydon Bloom, Aliyah Mastin, Percy Daggs IV, James Marsden, Krys Marshall, Enuka Okuma, and Charlie Evans. Recurring appearances come from Jon Beavers, Kate Godfrey, Cassidy Freeman, Gerald McRaney, Richard Robichaux, Matt Malloy, Ian Merrigan, Michelle Meredith, Shailene Woodley, Thomas Doherty, Michael McGrady, and Cameron Britton, contributing to the show's rich ensemble.

Critically, Paradise season 2 has been well-received, boasting a 91% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes, surpassing season 1's 86%. Critics have praised the series for embracing its genre roots with increased intensity, delivering a gripping narrative filled with suspense, strong performances, and consistent dramatic tension. Audience scores stand at 84% for season 1 and 80% for season 2, reflecting solid viewer appreciation.

ScreenRant’s own review by Graeme Guttmann awarded the sophomore season seven out of ten stars, noting that Paradise "maintains a sense of fun and mystery even as its expansion into new territory treads familiar thematic ground." This balance of intrigue and genre familiarity has helped the series sustain momentum.

Adding to its accolades, Paradise season 1 received four Emmy nominations: Outstanding Drama Series, Outstanding Lead Actor for Sterling K. Brown, Outstanding Supporting Actor for James Marsden, and Outstanding Supporting Actress for Julianne Nicholson. These nods underscore the show's critical recognition and the strength of its cast performances.

The comparison to Lost is significant given the latter's status as one of the most influential and beloved TV shows of all time. Both Paradise and Lost start from a relatively straightforward premise and evolve into intricate, multi-layered narratives filled with twists and unexpected developments. This shared storytelling approach delivers a deeply engaging experience that rewards viewers willing to follow the complex plotlines.

Fans of Paradise can look forward to more, as Hulu has officially renewed the series for season 3. This renewal promises to continue exploring the mysteries and character arcs that have captivated audiences so far.

Overall, the growing critical acclaim, strong audience response, and support from figures like Stephen King position Paradise as a standout in the current television landscape. Its blend of sci-fi, thriller, and drama, combined with a talented cast led by Sterling K. Brown and Julianne Nicholson, ensures the series remains a must-watch on Hulu.