The crime comedy series Deli Boys has officially launched on Hulu and Disney+, bringing to life the chaotic adventures of two Pakistani American brothers who discover their late father’s legacy goes beyond ordinary grocery sales. Following two and half years of development, this 10-episode series created by Abdullah Saeed premiered on March 6, 2025, and is already generating buzz for its unique blend of humor and organized crime intrigue.
The show’s premise revolves around brothers Mir and Raj Dar, who unexpectedly inherit their father Baba Dar's convenience store and eventually learn of his secret dealings with organized crime. Not only does Deli Boys crack jokes about family dynamics, it also touches on cultural expectations, which are humorously yet poignantly explored throughout the series. Saeed, known for his previous hit High Maintenance, sought to engage the audience with unexpected storylines and dueling tones, saying, "I had [violence] in the script at different points, because I wanted people to keep reading" (reported by Variety). This comedic drama manages to walk the line between humor and the harsh realities of crime, providing both entertainment and thought-provoking content.
Leading the cast are well-known actors Poorna Jagannathan, who plays the calculating and fierce Lucky, and Brian George as Ahmad, alongside relatively new faces like Saagar Shaikh as Raj and Alfie Fuller as Prairie. Jagannathan’s character is particularly noteworthy; she functions as the second-in-command of her deceased partner's drug empire and is the tough guide for the clueless Dar brothers as they navigate their inheritance. "Deli Boys is just out here for laughs, and that's what I love about it," Poorna remarked, emphasizing how this series marks a shift from her previous roles. She portrays Lucky as "a cool auntie" who isn’t afraid to take on the male-dominated world around her, exhibiting both strength and vulnerability.
Shifting from the serious undertones of her past roles, which often required portraying nuanced family dynamics, Jagannathan’s performance as Lucky showcases her versatility as she tackles comedic aspects intertwined with her character's criminal dealings. The role is not without its challenges, as she has said, "I could never have dreamed of a role like this being written for a South Asian woman, let alone being offered to me." That statement underlines the significance of Deli Boys within the larger narrative of representation and visibility for South Asian narratives on mainstream television.
Abdullah Saeed took inspiration from his personal experiences and the generational differences he observed within South Asian families, focusing on the layers of secrecy and tradition. The creators and producers worked closely to refine the show's voice and tone, with Saeed attributing the collaborative process to Jenni Konner and Michelle Nader for their guidance. Together, they found the right balance of comedy and action, creating compelling characters who represent rich cultural backgrounds.
Also starring are Alexandra Ruddy as Agent Mercer, the determined FBI agent chasing the brothers, and Iqbal Theba as Baba Dar, whose death kicks off the central plot. Through its diverse cast and spotlight on cultural themes, Deli Boys aims to push boundaries and challenge stereotypes—a point emphasized by Mindy Kaling, who noted, "Poorna’s such an exciting talent because she is just so modern and defies stereotypes." This emphasis on character depth and representation showcases the importance of inclusive storytelling.
From start to finish, Deli Boys revives the classic crime narrative with vibrant humor and cultural commentary, making it both entertaining and relatable for viewers. Saeed’s ambitions to balance the world of comedy with the harsh realities of crime are set to resonate well with audiences, continuing the trend of open conversations about the intricacies of familial relationships, identity, and unexpected legacies.
With the series already gaining traction among viewers, it promises to be a significant part of the television lineup for 2025 and beyond. It's not merely about the laughs, but about the intricacies of life, family, and the corridors of power found both behind deli counters and within families.”