Nicola Peltz Beckham is making her big return to television in Ryan Murphy’s new thriller series, The Beauty, set to premiere on Disney+ later this month. The show dives into a dark world of high fashion where supermodels face gruesome deaths, blending horror, sci-fi, and suspense with a star-studded cast that promises plenty of drama.
Series Premiere and Release Details
Fans of thrilling dramas have something exciting on the horizon. The Beauty kicks off with its first three episodes on January 22, 2026, exclusively on Disney+ in regions like the UK, with new episodes dropping each Thursday. In the US, it streams on Hulu starting January 21.
This 11-episode season follows a unique release pattern, wrapping up with two episodes in each of the final two weeks. Based on recent announcements, the series adapts a popular comic book story, turning it into a globe-trotting tale of beauty and peril.
Viewers worldwide can access it through Disney+ or Hulu, depending on location. Early buzz suggests it could become a binge-worthy hit, much like Murphy’s past successes such as American Horror Story.
Plot and Themes Explored
At its core, The Beauty revolves around a mysterious sexually transmitted virus that promises physical perfection but delivers horrifying side effects. Detectives uncover this threat amid a wave of mysterious deaths in the high fashion industry.
The story tackles timely themes like the dangers of chasing beauty ideals and the dark side of fame. Supermodels start dying in shocking ways, pulling viewers into a mix of mystery and sci-fi horror.
Murphy, known for his bold storytelling, infuses the series with campy glamour and sharp social commentary. This setup echoes current conversations about body image and societal pressures, especially in the wake of recent celebrity discussions on mental health in 2025.
One standout element is how the plot weaves in real-world inspirations, like the rise of beauty tech and viral trends on social media. It keeps the narrative fresh and relevant for today’s audience.
Star-Studded Cast Highlights
Nicola Peltz Beckham leads the excitement as she steps back into TV after a three-year break. Her role in this thriller marks a shift to darker, more intense characters.
The cast boasts big names that add star power:
- Evan Peters as a determined detective facing moral dilemmas.
- Rebecca Hall portraying a sharp investigator unraveling the mystery.
- Ashton Kutcher in a surprising turn as a tech billionaire tied to the virus.
- Guest stars like Bella Hadid, making her acting debut, and Meghan Trainor, bringing fresh energy.
Other notable actors include Anthony Ramos, Jeremy Pope, and veterans like Peter Gallagher. This ensemble mirrors Murphy’s knack for attracting top talent, similar to his work on shows like Feud.
Trailer Breakdown and Fan Reactions
The recently released trailer has sparked massive online buzz, showing glimpses of glamorous runways turning into nightmare scenes. It teases intense action, from high-stakes chases to eerie transformations.
Key moments include models achieving flawless looks only to suffer terrifying consequences, set against a pulsing soundtrack. The visuals highlight Murphy’s signature style: sleek, over-the-top, and visually stunning.
Social media reactions have been enthusiastic. Posts on platforms like X praise the trailer’s chilling vibe and star power, with many fans comparing it to hits like The Substance. View counts on teaser clips have soared into millions, indicating strong pre-release interest.
Production Insights and Murphy’s Vision
Ryan Murphy serves as executive producer, bringing his expertise from a string of Emmy-winning projects. Filming wrapped in late 2025, with a focus on international locations to capture the global fashion scene.
The series draws from an Image Comics sci-fi horror comic, expanding it into a broader thriller. Murphy has hinted at exploring how beauty standards evolve in the digital age, tying into 2026 trends like AI-enhanced cosmetics.
Behind-the-scenes details reveal a collaborative effort, with writers emphasizing diverse perspectives. This approach ensures the show resonates with a wide audience, addressing issues like exploitation in modeling.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Premiere Date | January 22, 2026 on Disney+ (UK); January 21 on Hulu (US) |
| Episode Count | 11 episodes |
| Main Cast | Nicola Peltz Beckham, Evan Peters, Rebecca Hall, Ashton Kutcher |
| Guest Stars | Bella Hadid, Meghan Trainor, Peter Gallagher |
| Genre | Thriller, Sci-Fi, Horror |
| Streaming Platform | Disney+ / Hulu |
Why This Series Matters Now
In a year where entertainment is buzzing with reboots and originals, The Beauty stands out for its bold take on perfection’s price. It arrives amid growing discussions on social media about unrealistic beauty filters and their impact on youth.
Recent events, like the 2025 beauty industry scandals involving unsafe products, make the plot feel eerily prescient. Murphy’s track record suggests it could spark conversations, much like his Grotesquerie series did last year.
For fans, it offers escapism with a message, entertaining while prompting reflection on personal values.
If this article sparked your interest in The Beauty, share your thoughts in the comments below. What are you most excited about— the cast, the plot, or Murphy’s style? Don’t forget to spread the word on social media to keep the conversation going.
