Viewers Call New Show, Whose Main Character Is Based on Melania Trump, the 'Best Show on TV Right Now' — Details

The new series followed the tangled lives of high society, but the commanding presence of its main character, partly modeled after Melania Trump, has fueled the show's growing buzz while dividing audience reactions.

Netflix's "The Hunting Wives" has drawn attention for its provocative plot, glamorous cast, and Malin Åkerman's portrayal of Margo Banks, a Maple Brook socialite whose character has sparked debate over its parallels to Melania Trump.

In an interview, the actress noted that the series launched straight into its twists and tensions, maintaining a fast-paced momentum from the very beginning rather than slowly building toward key moments. The series has ended its first season.

The series premiered on July 21 after its initial development for Starz. The Netflix show has ignited widespread online discussion, drawing both fervent praise and sharp criticism. On Instagram, a fan gushed, "Best show on tv [sic] right now." Another wrote, "The show is so good!!" while one said, "Best show."

On Facebook, criticism poured in. One person asked, "Is she serious?" Another declared, "She just ended her career!" A third argued, "It's a bizarre show not Melania at all [sic]!"

Some comments targeted the show's premise. "That's disgusting," one viewer said. Another person saw the parallels, "Makes a lot of sense. There's [sic] so many similarities."

Adapted from May Cobb's bestselling novel, the eight-part drama centered on Sophie O'Neil, played by Brittany Snow, who left Boston for the exclusive world of East Texas high society. In Texas, she fell under Banks's spell and was drawn into a perilous spiral of desire, manipulation, and deadly secrets.

The character Banks was portrayed as a master strategist, with every move serving a purpose in advancing her interests. At her core, she operated out of survival, using calculated actions to secure her place and influence.

Yet, she's not immune to surprise as O'Neil's arrival disrupted her rhythm, presenting a confident, emotionally perceptive newcomer who refused to conform to the usual social dynamics of the wives.

Banks wielded her sexuality as a deliberate tool, making a bold first impression by undressing in her initial encounter with O'Neil. The moment served as both a test and a declaration of dominance, flipping a dynamic more often seen with men.

Her approach reflected a belief in the inherent power of sexual confidence and the freedom to use it without apology, guided by personal boundaries that differ sharply from conventional norms.

However, behind Banks's sophisticated image is a troubled past shaped by hardship, sex work, and numerous affairs. Her seemingly perfect world started to crumble when her husband, Jed — played by Dermot Mulroney — entered the race for governor on a conservative platform, risking the revelation of long-hidden secrets.

In the finale, Banks was cast out by her husband after revealing the truth, O'Neil accidentally killed Banks's brother, and their fraught relationship ended in uncertainty. If the series returns, Åkerman suggested Banks could reunite with Jed for political gain, though significant surprises would be in store.

There's no official word yet on a renewal, but with strong early viewership and growing online buzz, Akerman said she was optimistic about the show's chances.

The cast of the widely talked-about series includes Chrissy Metz, Jaime Ray Newman, Katie Lowes, and Evan Jonigkeit. The executive production was led by showrunner Rebecca Perry Cutter, along with Erwin Stoff and author May Cobb.

With its mix of scandal, intrigue, and unapologetically bold characters, "The Hunting Wives" has cemented itself as one of Netflix's most talked-about dramas this season.

Whether viewers are drawn in by its glamorous chaos or repelled by its provocative themes, the series has sparked conversations that extend far beyond the screen.