Ruby Yao, the protagonist of the Peacock comedy “Laid,” is not your typical leading lady. Described as “selfish,” “a nightmare,” and “the worst person I have ever met,” Ruby’s character is undeniably off-putting. Played by Stephanie Hsu, Ruby’s karmic comeuppance kicks in when everyone she’s ever slept with starts to die in the order she had sex with them. This morbid premise sets the stage for a series that struggles to find its footing between horror and comedy.
Adapted from an Australian show of the same name by sitcom veterans Nahnatchka Khan and Sally Bradford McKenna, “Laid” follows Ruby as she navigates the consequences of her actions. Hsu’s performance as Ruby is a mix of obliviousness and callousness, making her a challenging character to root for. Unlike other antiheroes who manage to charm their way into viewers’ hearts, Ruby falls short, coming off as more annoying than anything else.
As Ruby’s body count rises, the show attempts to delve into the roots of her romantic dysfunction. Through therapy sessions with her therapist, played by Elizabeth Bowen, Ruby’s issues with abandonment and unrealistic expectations of love are laid bare. However, these expositional moments feel forced and fail to add depth to Ruby’s character.
The introduction of Richie, played by Michael Angarano, as an ex with a vested interest in Ruby’s predicament injects some much-needed energy into the series. Richie’s disdain for Ruby provides a sharp contrast to her self-absorption, creating tension and humor in their interactions. However, the pacing of the show leaves much to be desired, with key plot points and character relationships taking too long to develop.
Despite moments of humor and sharp wit, “Laid” struggles to find its voice. The season finale leaves viewers hanging, with unanswered questions and unresolved storylines. Is Ruby’s affliction a metaphor for her treatment of her exes, or simply a dark comedic twist on a tragic situation? The show fails to provide a clear perspective, leaving viewers wanting more.
In the end, “Laid” falls short of its potential. While Hsu’s performance is commendable, the show’s inability to fully commit to its genre and tone hinders its impact. With a mix of dark humor, tragedy, and unanswered questions, “Laid” fails to leave a lasting impression.
“All eight episodes of “Laid” are now streaming on Peacock.”
