Subtitles Not Appearing on Hulu? Here’s the Fix

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You finally sit down to binge that new show on Hulu, snacks in hand, blanket wrapped just right… and boom. No subtitles. You try toggling them on, but nothing happens. Frustration level = 100.

Don’t worry — you’re not alone. A lot of people run into this issue, and the good news? It’s usually an easy fix.

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TLDR:

If subtitles aren’t showing up on Hulu, try restarting the app or turning subtitles off and on again. Make sure your device’s closed caption settings are enabled too. Sometimes the issue is with Hulu itself, so checking for updates or restarting your device may help. Keep reading for a fun and easy guide to solve it for good!

Why Subtitles Disappear (Even When You Want Them!)

Before we fix anything, let’s talk about why subtitles might not show up in the first place:

  • The subtitles weren’t turned on properly.
  • The Hulu app is being grumpy (aka glitchy).
  • Your device’s settings are messing with captions.
  • There’s a bug on Hulu’s side.

Now let’s knock out each of these problems one by one with simple fixes that actually work.

Step 1: Turn Off Subtitles and Then Turn Them Back On

This is the tech version of “did you try turning it off and on again?” — and it really works.

  1. Start playing your video on Hulu.
  2. Pause the video and look for the settings or gear icon (usually at the bottom of the screen).
  3. Select the Subtitles & Captions menu.
  4. Toggle subtitles off first, press play for a second or two, then go back and toggle them on.

Give the video a moment and see if the subtitles magically reappear.

Step 2: Restart Your Hulu App

If subtitles are still missing, it could be the app misbehaving.

Here’s what to do:

  • Exit the app completely. Don’t just minimize — close it fully.
  • Wait about 10 seconds.
  • Reopen Hulu and try playing the video again with subtitles turned on.

Often, this refresh helps Hulu work normally again.

Step 3: Check Subtitles on Another Show

This tip is a hidden gem! Sometimes a specific episode or movie could have subtitle issues.

Try this:

  • Pick another show or movie on Hulu.
  • Turn captions on for that video.
  • Do they show up there?

If it’s working on a different title, the issue might just be with one video. You can wait for Hulu to fix it, or report it to their support team.

Step 4: Update Hulu

Running an old version of Hulu? That can mess with features like subtitles.

Here’s how to get the latest version:

  • Visit the app store on your device (Google Play, App Store, etc).
  • Search for Hulu.
  • If you see an Update button, tap it!

Once updated, reopen the app and test the subtitles again.

Step 5: Check Device Subtitle Settings

If you’re using a smart TV, streaming stick, game console, or even your phone, your device might have its own subtitle settings sneaking around in the background.

Here’s what to do for a few popular devices:

For Smart TVs or Streaming Devices:

  • Go to your device’s Settings menu.
  • Look for something like Accessibility or Closed Captions.
  • Make sure subtitles or captions are toggled on.

For iPhones/iPads:

  • Settings > Accessibility > Subtitles & Captioning.
  • Switch on Closed Captions + SDH.

For Android Devices:

  • Settings > Accessibility or Captions.
  • Enable captions and pick your subtitle style if needed.

Once you adjust your device settings, try Hulu again. You might get your subtitles back like magic 🪄

Step 6: Try a Different Device

This one’s simple. If nothing else works on your current device, try using Hulu on another one.

Options include:

  • A laptop or computer
  • Smartphone or tablet
  • Another TV or streaming device (like Roku, Fire Stick, Apple TV)

If it works elsewhere, your first device might have a deeper issue or need a system update.

Step 7: Clear Cache and Data (Advanced But Easy)

If you aren’t afraid of buttons, this may help Hulu behave better. Clearing cache and data gives the app a fresh start.

Here’s how on most streaming devices and Android phones:

  • Go to your device’s Settings.
  • Find Apps or Application Manager.
  • Select Hulu.
  • Tap Clear Cache and then Clear Data.

This won’t delete your account or watch history. It’ll just clean out junk and bugs.

Bonus Tip:

If you’re watching in a browser, try switching to a different one (like Chrome, Firefox, Safari). Or just clear your browser cookies and cache!

Still No Subtitles? Contact Hulu Support

If you’ve tried it all and it’s still not working, it might be time to bring in the pros.

You can reach out to Hulu’s support team through:

Let them know what you’ve already tried. That way, you skip the basic steps and get faster help!

Quick Summary of Fixes

  • Toggle subtitles off and on again during playback
  • Restart the Hulu app
  • Test subtitles on another movie/show
  • Update Hulu from your device’s app store
  • Check your device’s closed caption settings
  • Try watching on a different device
  • Clear cache and data for the Hulu app

Enjoy the Subtitles (And the Show)!

Hopefully one of these steps worked for you! Subtitles are important — whether you’re hard of hearing, watching late at night, or trying to follow that one actor who mumbles a LOT.

Now put your feet up, grab your snacks, and let the dialogue roll across the screen like it’s supposed to.

Happy streaming!