Something gross is coming to our screens, and if you’re an Alien fan—or just someone who loves a good scare—you’ll want to buckle up. FX’s Alien: Earth is poised to bring the franchise’s signature body horror and suspense to television for the first time. Created by Noah Hawley and executive produced by Ridley Scott, this prequel series explores what happens when humanity’s darkest curiosities collide with an extraterrestrial threat on home turf.

When does Alien: Earth drop?

Mark your calendars: the series is set to premiere with its first two episodes on August 12, 2025, in the United States on FX and FX on Hulu, with subsequent episodes released weekly each Tuesday thereafter. For viewers in the UK and Ireland, Disney+ will stream Alien: Earth from August 13, 2025, launching the first two episodes together and then rolling out one new episode per week.

Why two premiere dates?

FX and Hulu are the home for the series in the U.S., while Disney+ holds exclusive streaming rights in certain international territories. As is common with major franchises, regional release dates can differ by a day to accommodate scheduling, local promotion, and time zone considerations. By specifying exact dates (August 12, 2025, for the U.S.; August 13, 2025, for the UK/Ireland), viewers can avoid confusion and plan their binge—or slow-burn—viewing accordingly.

What to expect

Alien: Earth is set in the year 2120, two years before the events of Ridley Scott’s 1979 classic Alien. The series introduces Wendy, portrayed by Sydney Chandler, a groundbreaking humanoid robot infused with human consciousness—described in promotional materials as the first of her kind. When a mysterious space vessel, the USCSS Maginot, crash-lands on Earth, Wendy and a ragtag team of tactical soldiers embark on a rescue and investigation mission only to uncover something truly horrific within the wreckage.

No prizes for guessing the nature of the threat: facehuggers and xenomorph-like creatures make their terrestrial debut, but the series promises to go beyond familiar scares. According to the official teaser, “The ship collected five different life forms from the darkest corners of the universe,” hinting at multiple alien threats beyond the iconic Xenomorph. This opens the door to fresh horrors while respecting the franchise’s DNA of claustrophobic dread, body horror, and existential questions about what it means to be human.

FX boss John Landgraf has teased a blend of the original Alien’s horror with the action-driven spirit of Aliens, promising “a scary thrill ride that will blow people back in their seats.” Under Noah Hawley’s guidance—known for series like Fargo—expect layered storytelling, strong character work, and a polished visual style that still preserves the franchise’s gritty, visceral edge.

This is the first television adaptation in the Alien franchise’s history, making it a landmark event. Past attempts at TV projects have largely stalled or remained in development hell; finally seeing Alien’s universe translated to a serialized format signals confidence in high-end genre storytelling on streaming/TV platforms. For fans, it means more time to explore the broader world-building, corporate dystopia, and philosophical questions the films hinted at but never fully explored. For newcomers, it offers an entry point into Alien lore without requiring them to watch decades of movies—though veteran viewers will relish the nods and deeper connections.

Noah Hawley’s involvement suggests a willingness to probe existential themes: Wendy’s synthetic humanity raises questions about personhood, autonomy, and the ethics of creation. Combined with the classic theme of corporate overreach (think Weyland-Yutani’s profit-driven motives), the series can explore new angles on climate-stricken Earth, five mega-corporations’ grip on society, and what true monstrosity looks like—alien creatures or human ambition?

Trailer: what we’ve seen so far

The official trailers drop unsettling imagery: the USCSS Maginot’s wreckage, glimpses of grotesque life forms, Wendy’s emotional journey from “child” to hybrid leader, and tense exchanges among soldiers and corporate liaisons. A standout line: “The ship collected five different life forms from the darkest corners of the universe,” suggesting multiple alien menaces beyond the Xenomorph archetype. Brand-new designs for facehuggers and potentially entirely novel species hint at fresh scares rather than retreads.

Additionally, trailers highlight the setting: a near-future Earth under corporate dominion, blending sci-fi world-building with horror aesthetics—industrial interiors, dimly lit corridors, and visceral creature effects—aimed at both fans craving nostalgia and viewers seeking modern, high-production-value thrills.

Where and how to watch?

• United States: Premiere on FX channels and FX on Hulu. To stream on Hulu, you need a Hulu subscription. For those without Hulu, you can subscribe directly via Hulu’s plans. Hulu offers:
  • Hulu (ad-supported) starting at around $9.99/month (with ads) and higher tiers for ad-free.
  • Bundles: Hulu + Disney+ (ads) around $10.99/month or similar bundle pricing, though offers may vary by region and promotions.
• International (e.g., UK, Ireland and other Disney+ territories): Available on Disney+. As of mid-2025, Disney+ pricing in the U.S. is approximately $9.99/month for the ad-supported tier or $15.99/month for ad-free; bundle options with Hulu and/or ESPN+ may vary and are subject to promotions.
• No free trial: Disney+ and Hulu no longer offer free trials widely, meaning you’ll commit financially from day one—but you can cancel anytime if you decide it’s not for you.
• Why it’s worth it: Beyond Alien: Earth, Disney+/Hulu houses high-profile content like Andor, The Bear, Marvel and Star Wars series, plus films and family favorites. For genre fans, the bundle offers a deep library that can justify the monthly cost, especially if you plan to watch multiple shows.

Alien: Earth promises a return to the franchise’s primal fear—unseen terrors lurking beyond human understanding—now transplanted onto Earth’s soil, raising stakes for humanity itself. With a high-profile creative team, a cast blending fresh faces and veterans, and the production backing of FX/Hulu/Disney+, it’s one of 2025’s most anticipated genre series. The premiere on August 12 (US) / August 13 (UK/Ireland) is your gateway to a world where corporate greed meets cosmic horror, and where “something gross” becomes an appointment viewing.

So get ready: stock up on popcorn (or something stronger), settle in for two episodes at launch, and prepare for weekly chills. Whether you’re a franchise veteran or curious newcomer, Alien: Earth is set to deliver the blend of terror, intrigue, and philosophical undercurrents that have kept Alien relevant for nearly half a century.