When Nobody Wants This debuted in September 2024, it felt like a breath of fresh air in a TV landscape dominated by thrillers and sitcoms. Kristen Bell and Adam Brody's undeniable chemistry made falling in love look effortless, but the show also reminded us that sustaining a relationship is the real challenge. Now, as fans eagerly await Season 3, there's another gem on Hulu and Disney+ that deserves your attention: Benefits With Friends (originally Amor da Minha Vida). This Brazilian series, which just dropped its second season, offers a more nuanced and emotionally raw exploration of love—one that might even surpass the beloved comedy.
What Is 'Benefits With Friends' About?
Set in vibrant Rio de Janeiro, the show follows Bia (Bruna Marquezine) and Victor (Sérgio Malheiros), two strangers who meet at a party and instantly connect. But when Bia leans in for a kiss, Victor pulls away—he's in a long-term relationship that's lost its spark. From that moment, they become inseparable best friends, confidants who call each other Silvio and Fausto after Brazilian TV legends. Their bond is undeniable, yet they both keep searching for love elsewhere.
Season 1 saw Bia fall for Marcelo (Danilo Mesquita), only to face betrayal, while Victor discovered his girlfriend's infidelity and found a new partner in the free-spirited Paula (Rayssa Bratillieri). Throughout it all, the show teased the idea that Bia and Victor might be each other's true match—but getting there is anything but simple.
Season 2 Raises the Stakes
The newly released Season 2, which premiered on October 9, 2026, dives even deeper into their emotional turmoil. Bia confronts her estranged, abusive father, forcing her to question her own worth and whether she's capable of accepting Victor's love. This internal struggle adds a layer of complexity that echoes Joanne's journey in Nobody Wants This—both women must overcome their insecurities to let love in.
Unlike its American counterpart, Benefits With Friends doesn't shy away from the messy, unglamorous side of romance. It tackles themes of self-doubt, family trauma, and the fear of vulnerability. The show asks a poignant question: even when two people love each other, is that enough to make a relationship last?
For fans of romance with real stakes, this series is a must-watch. It's a refreshing alternative to the lighter fare, offering a more realistic portrayal of love's challenges. If you're looking for something that will make you feel all the feels, Benefits With Friends is the perfect binge.
While you wait for Nobody Wants This Season 3, consider this your new obsession. And if you're in the mood for more underrated gems, check out our list of medieval romance novels or revisit the underrated Western that deserves more love.
