Rachel Brosnahan Marvelous Mrs Maisel fans recognize the actress for her breakthrough role as Miriam “Midge” Maisel on Prime Video’s critically acclaimed series, which launched her career into new heights. Before taking on the iconic character of Lois Lane in the latest Superman film, Brosnahan’s unforgettable performance in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel established her as an outstanding talent in television.
A Glimpse into the 1950s World of Midge Maisel
Premiering in 2017 on Prime Video, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel is a vibrant dramedy created by Amy Sherman-Palladino, known for her work on Gilmore Girls and other popular series. The story centers on Midge Maisel, a New York City housewife living in the late 1950s, whose life takes an unexpected turn when her husband Joel, played by Michael Zegen, abruptly leaves her. This period was marked by stringent social norms, and divorce carried significant stigma, which throws Midge into an emotional crisis.
One fateful night, after drinking too much, Midge finds herself onstage at The Gaslight Café, a local comedy club, where she impulsively delivers a routine revealing her candid feelings about her unraveling life. To her surprise, the crowd responds enthusiastically, and she discovers a hidden knack for stand-up comedy, marking the beginning of a new and uncertain career path. Though her debut ends with an arrest for indecent exposure, Midge’s journey into comedy signals a powerful transformation from traditional domesticity to independence.
The world is full of disappointments, and sometimes people let you down. You can’t just run away.
—Miriam “Midge” Maisel
Along the way, Midge connects with key figures who shape her path: Lenny Bruce, portrayed by Luke Kirby and inspired by the real-life iconoclastic comedian, becomes her first fan, and Susie Myerson, played by Alex Borstein, becomes her tough yet caring manager. Susie, recognizing Midge’s raw talent, is instrumental in pushing her forward despite the era’s widespread dismissal of female comedians. Together, they navigate a rocky landscape riddled with both breakthroughs and humiliations, forming a partnership based on resilience and a shared vision.
Rachel Brosnahan’s Dynamic Portrayal of Midge’s Fast-Paced Life
Rachel Brosnahan’s commanding performance captures the sharp wit and vulnerability of Midge Maisel with flawless comedic timing and emotional depth. She embodies a character who constantly battles societal expectations and personal hardships while asserting her individuality. Brosnahan’s skillful delivery of rapid-fire dialogue and biting humor brings Midge’s complex personality to life, balancing sarcasm with a palpable yearning for personal fulfillment.
At a time when women rarely pursued careers outside the home, Brosnahan’s Midge boldly challenges norms, driven by a fierce desire to succeed. The actress’s portrayal earned wide praise, including five Emmy nominations and a win for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series in 2018, reflecting how her performance resonated with viewers and critics alike. Her ability to express both comedic brilliance and moments of sincere emotion highlights the depth of Midge’s character and the show’s layered storytelling.
fast-paced, chatter-filled dialogue with often hilarious aplomb.
—Amy Sherman-Palladino
An Ensemble Cast Elevates the Series to Emmy-Winning Heights
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel boasts a remarkable supporting cast that complements Brosnahan’s lead role, enriching the series with diverse and powerful performances. Alex Borstein’s portrayal of Susie Myerson won two consecutive Emmys for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 2018 and 2019, highlighting the strength of the characters’ partnership. Marin Hinkle and Tony Shalhoub play Midge’s parents, Rose and Abe Weissman, with Shalhoub earning an Emmy in 2019 for his role as the cantankerous Abe.
Luke Kirby’s Lenny Bruce also earned an Emmy in 2019, demonstrating the show‘s strong casting choices. The series further features standout guest stars including Jane Lynch as the flamboyant Sophie Lennon, Sterling K. Brown, Stephanie Hsu, Jason Alexander, and Wanda Sykes, all of whom contribute meaningfully to the narrative. Sherman-Palladino’s inclusion of familiar faces from her earlier projects, such as Kelly Bishop, Liza Weil, and Milo Ventimiglia, enriches the show’s texture and appeal.
The production values—ranging from vividly colorful costumes and cinematography to meticulously accurate 1950s New York City sets—create a captivating backdrop that feels like a character in its own right, transporting viewers into Midge’s world. The series ran for five seasons and concluded with a finale that provided closure to all principal characters, offering a satisfying conclusion to their stories.
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel garnered an impressive total of 22 Emmy wins from 80 nominations, including Outstanding Comedy Series in 2018. The show’s legacy lies not only in its awards but in its ability to highlight Rachel Brosnahan’s brilliance, showcasing her comedic timing, emotional range, and ability to navigate both humor and drama seamlessly. Her role in this series remains a defining moment in her career and a testament to her talent.
Brosnahan’s continued rise, including recent projects like her upcoming role in Apple TV+’s Presumed Innocent and her portrayal of Lois Lane, suggests that audiences will be seeing much more of this versatile actress in the years to come. Nevertheless, it is her work as Midge Maisel that will remain a standout achievement, marking the moment she truly stole the spotlight.
