PEN15 (2019)
The Hulu comedy that turns middle school nostalgia into something painfully, brilliantly real — one gel pen stroke at a time.
PEN15 - Series Information
- Original Title: PEN15
- First Air Year: 2019
- Last Air Year: 2021
- Created by: Anna Konkle, Sam Zvibleman et al.
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Comedy
- Content Rating (US): TV-MA
- Number of Seasons: 2
- Number of Episodes: 25
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: February 8, 2019 (United States - TV-MA), February 8, 2019 (Canada - 14+), February 8, 2019 (United Kingdom - 15), February 8, 2019 (Germany - 16), February 8, 2019 (France - 18), February 8, 2019 (Australia - MA 15+), February 8, 2019 (Brazil - 16), February 8, 2019 (Mexico - C), February 8, 2019 (Spain - 18), February 8, 2019 (South Korea - 15)
- Networks: Hulu
- Production Companies: The Lonely Island, AwesomenessTV, Party Over Here, OPE Partners
- Production Countries: United States of America
PEN15 - Plot
Middle school as it really happened. Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle star in this adult comedy, playing versions of themselves as thirteen-year-old outcasts in the year 2000, surrounded by actual thirteen-year-olds, where the best day of your life can turn into your worst with the stroke of a gel pen.
PEN15 - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see what awaits in this unforgettable Hulu original:
R-Rated. Cringeworthy. Middle school.
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PEN15 - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Anna Konkle
- Sam Zvibleman
- Maya Erskine
Main Cast
- Maya Erskine
- Anna Konkle
- Mutsuko Erskine
- Taylor Nichols
- Melora Walters
- Taj Cross
- Dallas Liu
- Jonah Beres
- Lincoln Jolly
- Richard Karn
Writers
- Anna Konkle
- Sam Zvibleman
- Maya Erskine
- Stacy Osei-Kuffour
- Andrew Rhymer
Executive Producers
- Akiva Schaffer
- Brooke Pobjoy
- Anna Konkle
- Andy Samberg
- Jorma Taccone
PEN15 - FAQs
Are the creators of PEN15 actually playing teenagers?
Yes. Adult co-creators Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle play thirteen-year-old versions of themselves, surrounded by actual teenage actors. This deliberate casting choice is central to the show's comedic and emotional impact, creating an uncanny contrast that amplifies both the humor and the raw vulnerability of adolescence.
Where can you stream PEN15?
PEN15 is available to stream on Hulu. It can also be purchased digitally on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, and Fandango At Home for viewers who prefer to buy individual episodes or the full series.
Why did PEN15 end after only two seasons?
PEN15 concluded after two seasons in 2021, with co-creators Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle stating they felt the story had reached a natural endpoint. Rather than stretch the premise beyond its emotional core, they chose to end the series on their own terms, delivering a satisfying and intentional conclusion.
Is PEN15 based on a true story?
PEN15 is semi-autobiographical. Co-creators Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle draw heavily from their own middle school experiences growing up around the year 2000. While specific storylines are fictionalized, the emotional truth of the series — the awkwardness, friendships, and cringe-worthy moments — is deeply personal and rooted in real life.
How many seasons and episodes does PEN15 have?
PEN15 ran for two seasons and a total of 25 episodes. Season 1 consisted of 10 episodes, while Season 2 expanded to 15 episodes. The series aired on Hulu from February 8, 2019, through 2021, when it concluded.
Was PEN15 well received by critics?
PEN15 earned widespread critical acclaim throughout its run. Critics praised its fearless performances, sharp writing, and its ability to balance genuine comedy with emotional depth. It holds a very high approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and was frequently cited as one of the most original and affecting comedies of its era.
What is the content rating for PEN15?
PEN15 is rated TV-MA, meaning it is intended for mature audiences only. Despite centering on middle school characters, the series deals frankly with themes including sexuality, substance use, family dysfunction, and social cruelty, making it unsuitable for younger viewers.
What are some shows similar to PEN15?
Viewers who enjoyed PEN15 may also appreciate I May Destroy You, How To with John Wilson, and We Are Lady Parts for their similarly bold, personal storytelling. For coming-of-age comedy with a distinctive voice, Cucumber and Wasted also offer comparably raw and unconventional perspectives on identity and growing up.
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