What is Glamorous on Netflix about? (and is it worth watching?)

Every time there’s a new Netflix show released, potential viewers want to know everything they can before investing their time in a binge-watch. That’s the case with the recently released Kim Cattrall-starring comedy-drama series Glamorous.

The series, set within the world of makeup and the beauty industry, has taken a winding road to finally make it to air. Initially, the show was being developed to air on The CW, but when the network ultimately passed, it gained a second life when Netflix put it in development.

And in June 2023, here it is on our watch lists, ready to be binged! But is it worth watching? Here’s what you need to know about the new series, including its synopsis, what the critics are saying, and more!

What is Glamorous on Netflix about?

In the new queer workplace comedy-drama, Sex and the City star Kim Cattrall stars as makeup mogul Madolyn Addison, who welcomes aspiring beauty influencer Marco Mejia (Miss Benny) as one of her new assistants. The culture shock of suddenly working for the mother of all makeup brings Marco closer to figuring out who he is and who he wants to be.

Here’s how Netflix describes the series:

"“Glamorous tells the story of Marco Mejia, a young gender non-conforming queer man whose life seems to be stuck in place until he lands a job working for legendary makeup mogul Madolyn Addison. Its Marco’s first chance to figure out what he wants out of life, who he actually is, and what it really means for him to be queer.”"

Is Glamorous based on Ugly Betty?

While watching Glamorous on Netflix, some viewers might believe the premise to be familiar. A newcomer struggles to fit in at their new high-powered corporate environment. It recalls Netflix’s Emily in Paris and Freeform’s The Bold Type, but it more so bares a resemblance to ABC’s America Ferrera comedy series Ugly Betty. However, Glamorous isn’t based on Ugly Betty, and it isn’t a loose retelling of the fan-favorite series. (All four seasons of Ugly Betty are streaming on Hulu.)

Is Glamorous on Netflix worth watching?

If you want a rundown of what critics have been saying about the series before you start watching, we’re sharing some of the reviews for Glamorous so far. As of June 23, the new series holds a 50% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, denoting middling reception from critics. Meanwhile, the audience score is 66%, meaning viewers like it more than critics.

TIME gave the series a positive review, calling it a “glossy summer binge,” and Variety seemingly agreed with their positive spin, also calling the show “delightful.” However, The Hollywood Reporter gave the show a much less glowing review and said the series was a “missed opportunity.” The Guardian might have the harshest review, but Independent ruminated on the “existential problem” of queer characters being used to empower and influence.

A quote from The Hollywood Reporter sums up what would be used as the “bottom line” on Rotten Tomatoes:

"“It’s a workplace comedy that has no grasp of how work works, a rom-com that fails to generate a single convincing spark, a Gen Z coming-of-age saga with the cultural references of a geriatric Millennial.”"

Regardless of what the critics are saying, Glamorous is totally worth watching for fans of Kim Cattrall or just fans of this genre in general. As the lead of the series, Miss Benny is endearing, and Marco is a captivating character with a journey that’s compelling to watch. It’s a happy-go-lucky series full of pluck, romantic intrigue, and sassy one-liners that will satisfy those looking for a fun binge-watch this summer.

Will you be watching Glamorous on Netflix?