**Linda Cardellini Shines in Netflix’s New Dark Comedy *No Good Deed***
Linda Cardellini has established herself as a versatile talent, mesmerizing viewers with her skillful shifts across genres and roles. From her iconic character Lindsay Weir in *Freaks and Geeks* to her Emmy-nominated portrayal of Judy Hale in *Dead to Me* on Netflix, Cardellini has repeatedly demonstrated her formidable presence. Now, she returns in Netflix’s fresh dark comedy, *No Good Deed*, and although she may not occupy the lead role, her performance as Margo Starling is already a highlight.
### **The Premise of *No Good Deed***
Crafted by Liz Feldman, the creative genius behind *Dead to Me*, *No Good Deed* delves into the darkly humorous side of the extreme measures individuals take to achieve their aspirations—or, in this instance, their dream residence. The series features Lisa Kudrow and Ray Romano as Lydia and Paul, a couple who decide to offload their stunning 1920s Spanish-style villa located in the prestigious Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles.
Nevertheless, the home is more than just a desirable property. It conceals secrets—ominous and perilous ones that Lydia and Paul are eager to keep under wraps. As various families vie to purchase the house, convinced it will resolve their distinct dilemmas, the storyline devolves into a wild blend of comedy, drama, and tension.
Netflix characterizes the show as a narrative where “the home of your dreams can become a genuine nightmare.” For Lydia and Paul, the only way to break free from their past is to confront it directly, paving the way for a series brimming with unexpected turns and abundant dark humor.
### **Linda Cardellini’s Scene-Stealing Role**
While Kudrow and Romano serve as the focal figures, Linda Cardellini’s Margo Starling truly stands out. Margo embodies a glamorous, ambitious individual driven by status and harboring a hidden agenda. She is resolute in her goal to renovate the sought-after house for profit alongside her partner, a real estate developer.
Cardellini’s representation of Margo marks a significant departure from her portrayal of the kind-hearted, understanding Judy Hale in *Dead to Me*. In fact, it was Cardellini who reportedly conveyed to Feldman her desire for her next character to be the “complete opposite” of Judy. Her precise request? To portray a “badass bitch.” Feldman responded by crafting Margo as a character that is sultry, wide-eyed, charming, and unapologetically fierce.
Both fans and critics have applauded Cardellini’s performance, with one viewer exclaiming on social media, “Just finished *No Good Deed* & I need Liz Feldman to keep Linda Cardellini in every project of hers… Judy from *Dead to Me* & Margo from *No Good Deed* are two vastly different characters but Linda masterfully embodies both roles… her & Liz make a fantastic duo.”
### **The Chemistry and Dynamics**
Although the lead couple, Kudrow and Romano, inject their charm into the series, some viewers have remarked that their chemistry seems somewhat subdued. This dynamic inadvertently provides Cardellini with greater space to shine. Her Margo is captivating, effortlessly drawing attention in every scene she occupies.
The character’s multilayered complexity—charismatic on the surface but concealing hidden truths—infuses richness into the show’s narrative. Margo’s exchanges with other characters, particularly as she navigates her ambitions, showcase a nuanced and subtle performance.
### **A Winning Collaboration**
The collaboration between Liz Feldman and Linda Cardellini continues to yield impressive results. Feldman’s talent for developing multifaceted, relatable characters combined with Cardellini’s ability to portray them creates a formidable synergy.
Feldman began to shape *No Good Deed* while wrapping up the final season of *Dead to Me*, and it’s evident that her creative inspiration has flowed into this new venture. The show’s blend of dark humor, intrigue, and emotional richness represents a natural progression of Feldman’s storytelling approach.
### **Reception and Early Success**
As of this moment, *No Good Deed* ranks as the #2 show on Netflix in the U.S., highlighting its initial success. The series has received favorable reviews, boasting a 76% critics’ score and an 81% audience approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. While the show’s concept and ensemble cast are certainly impressive, it’s Cardellini’s performance that has audiences buzzing.
For Linda Cardellini fans, *No Good Deed* feels like an early holiday treat. It’s
