Hulu's 2-Part Fantasy Mythology Series Puts This 'Game of Thrones' Star in the Spotlight

Published Mar 17, 2026, 4:21 PM EDT

Atlantis has a lot going for it, but unfortunately, it didn't catch on and was cancelled due to declining ratings and the BBC's desire to expand its range. While the untimely cancellation left several loose ends, the series is worth watching for its thrilling story and entertaining friendship dynamic between the three leads. Now easily accessible and only 25 episodes, the severely underrated show is an easy binge-watch for anyone who likes fantasy, mythology, or adventure.

What Is 'Atlantis' About?

Despite the name, the series isn't really about the underwater city. Instead, it explores many Greek myths, from Medusa (Jemima Rooper) to Icarus (Joseph Timms). Throughout the series, Jason becomes integral to many legendary stories. However, the series begins by rewriting the myths entirely, as Jason is a modern submarine pilot searching for his father's missing vessel. His expedition crashes, leaving him to wash up on the shores of the mythical city of Atlantis, where he receives an ominous prophecy from the Oracle (Juliet Stevenson) and discovers that his past is not what he believed it to be. His journey from outsider to hero is the crux of the show, as he gets caught up in the city's political conflicts and falls for the princess Ariadne (Aiysha Hart). With Ariadne's stepmother, Pasiphae (Sarah Parish), serving as a scheming, power-hungry villain, Atlantis has major political stakes as Jason faces monsters and gets into trouble with his loyal friends.

While Greek mythology is embedded in the series, Atlantis doesn't strive for accuracy, allowing Jason to take on roles that belong to other heroes, like the story of the Minotaur, which is usually Theseus rather than Jason. This method means that coming in with no knowledge of the legends is completely okay, as everything is explained in the context of this unique retelling. The show uses the myths as inspiration rather than following them exactly, allowing for storylines to surprise even audience members who think they know what comes next, creating an intriguing narrative for Jason and his friends.

The Main Trio Is the Highlight of 'Atlantis'

While the story itself is interesting, the best part of Atlantis is the hilarious friendship between Jason, Pythagoras, and Hercules. Much like the creator's previous work on Merlin, this dynamic stands out due to the dedicated friendship. Pythagoras and Hercules are already an unlikely pair. Pythagoras is an intellectual and a healer, while Hercules is a drunk, who tells dramatized versions of his past heroics, even though he isn't the legend most know him as. Yet, when they take in Jason, it only becomes more unique. Each member of the trio has different strengths, and they constantly tease each other, picking on Hercules' womanizing antics, Pythagoras' obsession with triangles, or Jason's overly optimistic nature. It is the relationship between this trio that gives the show a lighthearted tone despite the near-constant threat of danger.

Yet, Jason, Hercules, and Pythagoras' friendship is much more than that, as they constantly prove their willingness to support each other, ultimately becoming the heart of the show. From the very first episode, Jason puts himself at risk for Pythagoras, and the others come to the rescue. Hercules may jokingly try to get out of it, but he always comes through for his friends. This loyalty proves that their teasing is all in good fun and allows the series to demonstrate the deep ties of friendship. While Atlantis was cancelled too soon, the two seasons are an exciting and hilarious watch.