Critics Praise New Elle Fanning Comedy 'Margo's Got Money Troubles'

Series earns 100% on Rotten Tomatoes and 78 on Metacritic, with standout performances from Fanning, Pfeiffer, and Offerman.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 7:25pm

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An abstract close-up photograph of luxurious, glittering sequins and shattered glass, capturing the high-end, glamorous visual style of the new comedy series.The shimmering textures and high-fashion aesthetics of 'Margo's Got Money Troubles' reflect the series' blend of humor, heart, and Hollywood glamour.Austin Today

The new Apple TV series 'Margo's Got Money Troubles', starring Elle Fanning, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Nick Offerman, has received glowing reviews from critics following its debut at the SXSW Festival. The comedy, which will compete in the upcoming Emmy Awards, has been praised for its charming and endearing tone, as well as the strong ensemble cast performances.

Why it matters

The positive critical reception for 'Margo's Got Money Troubles' highlights the growing demand for thoughtful, character-driven comedies that tackle real-world issues with empathy and nuance. The series' awards season aspirations also underscore the continued importance of prestige television in the streaming era.

The details

Margo's Got Money Troubles, based on the novel by Rufi Thorpe and executive produced by David E. Kelley, revolves around Margo (Fanning), a young woman who turns to an OnlyFans account to support herself when she becomes pregnant. The series also stars Pfeiffer as Margo's mother, Shyanne, a former Hooters waitress, and Offerman as her father, Jinx, an ex pro wrestler.

  • Margo's Got Money Troubles made its debut at the SXSW Festival in Austin in April 2026.
  • The series is set to premiere on Apple TV on April 15, 2026.

The players

Elle Fanning

An acclaimed actress known for her roles in films like Super 8, Somewhere, and The Great.

Michelle Pfeiffer

A veteran actress with an extensive filmography, including roles in Scarface, Batman Returns, and The Fabulous Baker Boys.

Nick Offerman

A comedic actor best known for his role as Ron Swanson on the sitcom Parks and Recreation.

David E. Kelley

An Emmy-winning producer and writer, known for creating acclaimed TV series like Big Little Lies, The Undoing, and Boston Legal.

Rufi Thorpe

The author of the novel on which Margo's Got Money Troubles is based.

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What they’re saying

“Margo's Got Money Troubles appreciates what's offbeat about these characters without treating them like oddities, empathizes with them without ever once pitying them.”

— Angie Han, Critic

“Pfeiffer brings deep nuance to the character's big feelings, such that she conveys an entire lifetime's worth of emotion just by the way she watches Margo during her baby shower.”

— Angie Han, Critic

“Pfeiffer is solid gold.”

— Ben Travers, Critic

“Fanning, Pfeiffer, and Offerman are excellent individually and phenomenal as a fractured family unit.”

— Allison Picurro, Critic

“Margo's Got Money Troubles has clear affection for its main characters... as do we.”

— Richard Roeper, Critic

What’s next

The series will compete in the upcoming Emmy Awards, where its strong critical reception and awards-friendly creative team and cast could make it a contender.

The takeaway

Margo's Got Money Troubles demonstrates the continued appeal of thoughtful, character-driven comedies that tackle real-world issues with empathy and nuance. The series' positive reviews and awards season potential highlight the enduring value of prestige television in the streaming era.