Hulu’s ‘Good American Family,’ starring Ellen Pompeo, explores the Natalia Grace story. The series examines perspective, bias, and trauma in this disturbing case.
Hulu’s upcoming series, “Good American Family,” starring Ellen Pompeo and Mark Duplass, is inspired by the real-life story of Natalia Grace Barnett. The eight-episode series, executive produced by Pompeo, delves into the complex and disturbing circumstances surrounding Natalia, a Ukrainian orphan, and her adoptive parents, Michael and Kristine Barnett.
The series, previously titled “Orphan,” explores the narrative of a Midwestern couple who adopt Natalia, believing she is a young girl with dwarfism. However, they gradually begin to suspect that she may not be who she claims to be. The show is told from multiple perspectives to examine issues of perspective, bias, and trauma. The show’s official logline describes the story as centering around a Midwestern couple who adopts a girl with a rare form of dwarfism. As they raise her alongside their three biological children, they begin to suspect that she is not who she says she is. As the couple tries to protect their family, Natalia fights her own battle to confront her past and define her future, with the situation ultimately playing out in the media and the courtroom.
The Real-Life Case of Natalia Grace Barnett
The “Good American Family” series mirrors the claims made by Michael and Kristine Barnett, who adopted Natalia in 2010. The Barnetts alleged that Natalia, whom they initially believed to be 6 or 7 years old, was significantly older and posing as a child. They claimed that she was violent, mentally ill, and a danger to their family.
In 2012, a judge legally changed Natalia’s birth year, declaring her an adult. The Barnetts then moved to Canada, leaving Natalia alone in an apartment, leading to neglect charges. These charges were later dismissed. The series will explore how the couple’s beliefs about Natalia as a threat develop and how Natalia confronts her past and seeks to define her future.
Production Details and Cast
“Good American Family” is created and executive produced by Katie Robbins, who also served as showrunner with Executive Producer Sarah Sutherland. Ellen Pompeo executive produces through her production banner Calamity Jane with Laura Holstein. Andrew Stearn, Dan Spilo, Niles Kirchner and Mike Epps also executive produce. Liz Garbus directed and executive produced the pilot. The limited series is produced by 20th Television.
The series stars Ellen Pompeo and Mark Duplass as the adoptive parents and Imogen Faith Reid as Natalia. The cast also includes Dulé Hill, Christina Hendricks, Sarayu Blue, and Jenny O’Hara as recurring guest stars.
Natalia Grace Today
Currently, Natalia’s exact age remains a subject of debate. Some records suggest she is in her early 20s, while others indicate she is in her 30s. She is now studying for her GED, planning a future as a teacher, undergoing surgeries for her disability, and is in a relationship. She has stated that she is happy with her current life and feels free.
Release Date and Schedule
“Good American Family” premieres on Hulu on March 19. The first two episodes will be available on the premiere date, followed by one episode released weekly.
Sources: https://www.avclub.com/good-american-family-trailer-hulu-ellen-pompeo
https://deadline.com/2025/02/ellen-pompeo-orphan-drama-hulu-orphan-good-american-family-1236269341/
https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/tv/2025/02/19/good-american-family-natalia-grace-barnett/79221944007/