On May 1, 2025, Netflix launched Tina Fey's latest comedy series, The Four Seasons, which marks her first major starring role on television since 30 Rock. The show, based on the 1981 film by Alan Alda, explores the intricacies of long-term relationships among a group of middle-aged couples as they navigate the complexities of friendship, love, and personal growth over the seasons.
Set against the backdrop of regular reunions between college friends, The Four Seasons focuses on how personal lives evolve and how the bonds of friendship can both endure and fray as time passes. Each two-episode segment of the series is crafted around a different seasonal vacation, allowing viewers to witness the characters’ journeys through spring, summer, fall, and winter.
The ensemble cast features Fey as Kate, alongside Will Forte as Jack, Colman Domingo as Danny, Steve Carell as Nick, Kerri Kenney as Anne, and Marco Calvani as Claude, among others. The chemistry among the cast is palpable, making their interactions feel genuine and relatable.
In the opening episodes, viewers are introduced to the friend group as they gather at a picturesque lake house owned by Nick and Anne. This spring getaway sets the stage for the series, where Nick abruptly announces his intention to divorce Anne, sparking a ripple of emotions and challenges among the friends. According to Fey, "There are hills and valleys in every relationship, especially long relationships. If you recently became empty nesters, you're like, 'Who have we become? Do we still work together?'" This theme resonates throughout the series, as the characters confront their own mid-life crises.
As the series progresses, each vacation reveals more about the characters’ lives. The summer episodes take the group to a tropical eco-resort in Puerto Rico, where they face unexpected challenges, including a hurricane that forces them to relocate. The fall episodes shift the setting to Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, New York, where they visit their daughters during Parents' Weekend, revisiting their own college days.
Finally, the winter episodes bring the group to Mount Peter in Warwick, New York, for a ski trip. Here, the dynamics shift dramatically as tragedy strikes. Nick, played by Carell, dies in a fatal car crash on New Year's Eve, a poignant moment that underscores the series' exploration of friendship and loss. Lang Fisher, the writer-producer, noted, "We thought about it a lot, but we made the decision to kill Nick early on. This show is all about middle age and the real stakes of life when you're in your 40s and 50s." The aftermath of Nick's death serves as a catalyst for the remaining characters to reflect on their relationships and the importance of their friendships.
Throughout the series, the humor is balanced with emotional depth. Viewers witness Kate and Jack's relationship strained by communication issues, especially as they adjust to their daughter leaving for college. "We are rooting for them to stay together," Fisher stated, highlighting the relatable struggles faced by many couples. The show captures the essence of maintaining love and friendship over decades, reminding audiences of the commitment required to keep relationships thriving.
With its blend of comedy and heartfelt moments, The Four Seasons has quickly become a favorite among viewers seeking relatable content. Critics have praised the series for its insightful look at middle age, with one reviewer stating, "The characters feel familiar. I saw glimpses of my own friends in them, as we navigate middle age, divorce, kids leaving home, and the quiet heroism of simply keeping things going."
The show has also sparked discussions about its filming locations, with many viewers curious about where the stunning scenes were shot. The spring episodes were filmed in New York's Hudson Valley, while the summer episodes took the cast to Puerto Rico. The autumn episodes were shot at Vassar College, and the winter scenes were filmed at Mount Peter ski resort.
In addition to its engaging plot, The Four Seasons features a talented cast that brings the characters to life. Fey, Forte, Domingo, and Calvani deliver performances that resonate with audiences, showcasing the complexities of friendship and love in a way that feels both humorous and poignant.
As the series wraps up its first season, fans are left wondering about the future of the show. Although Netflix has not yet confirmed a second season, the cast has expressed excitement about potential storylines and locations for future vacations. Fey humorously suggested they could visit "Claude's family in Italy" or even take a trip to space, showcasing the lighthearted spirit of the series.
Overall, The Four Seasons stands out as a refreshing take on the dynamics of friendship and relationships, offering viewers a mix of laughter, nostalgia, and heartfelt moments. With its engaging storytelling and relatable characters, the series is sure to resonate with audiences for seasons to come.
As viewers continue to binge-watch the eight episodes, they are reminded of the importance of cherishing friendships and navigating the ups and downs of life together. The series not only entertains but also encourages reflection on the bonds that shape our lives.
