Ashton Kutcher's "The Beauty" (Murphy-verse) premieres Jan 21. He compares it to ex-wife Demi Moore's "The Substance," exploring cosmetic enhancement.
- January 17, 2026
AceShowbiz - Ashton Kutcher, making a significant foray into the acclaimed Murphy-verse with his upcoming FX series The Beauty, has candidly drawn parallels between his new show and his ex-wife Demi Moore’s critically lauded film, The Substance. Both projects, he suggests, speak profoundly to the increasing normalization and societal impact of cosmetic enhancement. Set to captivate audiences with its premiere on January 21 at 9pm ET/PT, The Beauty promises to explore these themes with a distinctive Ryan Murphy flair.
Speaking with Entertainment Tonight, Kutcher didn't hold back in expressing his immense pride and admiration for Moore’s powerful performance in Coralie Fargeat’s body horror feature. "One, Demi Moore’s performance, obviously she got extraordinary accolades," he shared, his voice filled with genuine appreciation. "I’m so proud of her. She killed it." This powerful endorsement from Kutcher underscores the widespread critical acclaim Moore received, highlighting her ability to deliver a truly transformative and impactful portrayal.
The thematic convergence between The Beauty and The Substance is particularly noteworthy. While The Beauty is described as a body horror series centered around a super drug promising ultimate gorgeousness, The Substance delves into the extreme, often grotesque, lengths one might go to achieve an idealized physical form. Kutcher’s insight into this "bigger context" emphasizes a shared narrative thread: a piercing examination of society's relentless pursuit of perfection and the potentially devastating consequences when self-worth becomes inextricably linked to external appearance. Both productions serve as potent cultural commentaries.
Ashton Kutcher’s involvement in Ryan Murphy’s The Beauty not only marks an exciting new chapter but also strategically positions him within a conversation that The Substance has already initiated. By acknowledging these similarities, Kutcher not only champions Demi Moore's exceptional talent but also elevates the discourse surrounding the profound and often disturbing realities that both productions courageously confront. Their combined artistic voices contribute to a vital dialogue about body image, self-acceptance, and the true cost of beauty in contemporary society.