If you're a fan of "Modern Family," you're well-acquainted with its blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and relatable family dynamics. Its unique narrative style and engaging characters have made it a staple in the world of sitcoms. But now that the series has concluded, you might be wondering, "What to watch after Modern Family?" Fortunately, the world of television is brimming with fantastic comedies that can fill the void and provide you with new laughs and stories to enjoy.
Transitioning from one beloved show to another can be daunting, but fear not! There are plenty of TV shows that capture the spirit and humor of "Modern Family" while offering fresh perspectives. Whether you're looking for a series with quirky characters, a heartwarming family focus, or a satirical take on modern life, you'll find a plethora of options to suit your taste. From mockumentary styles to classic sitcom formats, there's something for everyone in the expansive universe of comedy television.
Diving into new shows can be an exciting adventure, especially when you discover a series that resonates with you as much as "Modern Family" did. This guide will explore various comedy series that share similarities with "Modern Family," highlighting their unique qualities and what makes them worth watching. Whether you're in the mood for witty banter, endearing characters, or clever storytelling, these recommendations are sure to keep you entertained and laughing long after the Pritchett-Dunphy-Tucker clan has bid their farewell.
Table of Contents
- The Office: A Mockumentary Delight
- Parks and Recreation: Governmental Giggles
- Brooklyn Nine-Nine: Detective Comedy
- Schitt's Creek: Small-Town Charm
- The Good Place: Philosophical Fun
- Black-ish: Cultural Commentary
- Superstore: Retail Realness
- Arrested Development: Dysfunctional Family Drama
- Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Quirky Optimism
- Community: College Capers
- The Goldbergs: 80s Nostalgia
- New Girl: Roommate Shenanigans
- Veep: Political Satire
- Curb Your Enthusiasm: Awkward Humor
- FAQs
The Office: A Mockumentary Delight
The Office is a pioneer in mockumentary-style television, a format that "Modern Family" fans will find delightfully familiar. Set in the mundane but hilarious world of Dunder Mifflin's Scranton branch, this series follows the daily lives of office employees led by their eccentric boss, Michael Scott, played by Steve Carell. The Office offers a mix of cringe-worthy moments, laugh-out-loud humor, and touching storylines, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoyed the unique storytelling style of "Modern Family."
What makes The Office stand out is its relatable characters and the way it captures the absurdity of everyday work life. The show's humor often arises from the interactions between its eclectic cast, including the enthusiastic Jim Halpert, the quirky Dwight Schrute, and the lovable Pam Beesly. Each character brings their own brand of comedy to the series, creating a dynamic ensemble that keeps viewers invested throughout its nine-season run.
Beyond the laughs, The Office excels in showcasing genuine character development and relationships. The evolution of Jim and Pam's romance, Michael's journey to self-awareness, and Dwight's pursuit of success are just a few examples of how the series balances humor with heartfelt storytelling. These elements, combined with its mockumentary format, make The Office a timeless comedy that resonates with audiences and remains a beloved classic.
Parks and Recreation: Governmental Giggles
Parks and Recreation is another standout mockumentary-style series that fans of "Modern Family" will appreciate. Set in the fictional town of Pawnee, Indiana, this comedy follows the quirky employees of the Parks Department as they navigate the challenges of local government. Led by the optimistic and determined Leslie Knope, played by Amy Poehler, the series offers a humorous take on the intricacies of small-town politics and community engagement.
One of the show's strengths lies in its well-developed characters and their unique dynamics. From the deadpan humor of Ron Swanson to the enthusiastic antics of Tom Haverford, Parks and Recreation boasts a diverse cast that brings a variety of comedic styles to the table. The series excels at creating memorable moments through character-driven humor, making it a joy to watch for fans of character-centric storytelling.
In addition to its humor, Parks and Recreation stands out for its positive and uplifting tone. The series emphasizes the importance of friendship, teamwork, and community, often delivering heartwarming messages amidst the laughs. This feel-good quality, combined with its clever writing and engaging characters, makes Parks and Recreation a must-watch for those seeking a comedic series with heart.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine: Detective Comedy
Brooklyn Nine-Nine blends humor and crime-solving in a way that makes it a standout comedy series. Set in the fictional 99th precinct of the NYPD, the show follows the antics of Detective Jake Peralta and his colleagues as they tackle cases and navigate the challenges of police work. With its witty writing and diverse ensemble cast, Brooklyn Nine-Nine offers a fresh take on the traditional police procedural.
At the heart of the series is its lovable and quirky characters, each bringing their own comedic flair to the show. From the goofy yet skilled Jake Peralta, played by Andy Samberg, to the no-nonsense Captain Raymond Holt, the series showcases a range of personalities that create dynamic and humorous interactions. The chemistry between the cast members adds an extra layer of enjoyment, making each episode a delightful watch.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine also excels in its ability to balance humor with meaningful storytelling. The show often tackles important social issues and themes, such as diversity, discrimination, and the complexities of law enforcement, while maintaining its comedic tone. This blend of humor and social commentary makes Brooklyn Nine-Nine a thought-provoking and entertaining series that's perfect for fans of "Modern Family" seeking a comedy with depth.
Schitt's Creek: Small-Town Charm
Schitt's Creek is a comedy series that captures the essence of small-town life with a unique and heartwarming twist. The show follows the wealthy Rose family as they navigate their new lives after losing their fortune and relocating to the humble town of Schitt's Creek. With its witty writing and endearing characters, Schitt's Creek has gained a dedicated following and critical acclaim.
What sets Schitt's Creek apart is its character-driven humor and the evolution of its characters over the course of the series. The show's ensemble cast, led by Eugene Levy and Catherine O'Hara, brings a wealth of comedic talent to the screen. The Roses' interactions with the quirky residents of Schitt's Creek create hilariously awkward and endearing moments that keep viewers engaged.
Beyond the laughs, Schitt's Creek is celebrated for its positive representation of LGBTQ+ characters and its exploration of themes such as acceptance, personal growth, and family bonds. These elements, combined with its comedic charm, make Schitt's Creek a heartwarming and delightful series for fans of "Modern Family" looking for a show with both humor and heart.
The Good Place: Philosophical Fun
The Good Place is a unique comedy series that explores philosophical themes with humor and wit. The show follows Eleanor Shellstrop, played by Kristen Bell, as she navigates the afterlife and attempts to become a better person. With its clever premise and unexpected twists, The Good Place offers a fresh and thought-provoking take on the traditional sitcom format.
One of the show's standout features is its inventive storytelling and world-building. The Good Place introduces viewers to a whimsical and surreal afterlife, where moral dilemmas and ethical questions are explored with comedic flair. The series' ability to tackle complex philosophical concepts while maintaining a comedic tone sets it apart as a truly original and engaging show.
The Good Place also boasts a talented ensemble cast, including Ted Danson, Jameela Jamil, and William Jackson Harper, who bring depth and humor to their roles. The chemistry between the characters and their growth throughout the series add to its appeal, making it a must-watch for fans of "Modern Family" seeking a comedy that challenges the mind and tickles the funny bone.
Black-ish: Cultural Commentary
Black-ish is a comedy series that combines humor with cultural commentary, offering a fresh and insightful perspective on contemporary family life. The show centers around the Johnson family, led by patriarch Dre Johnson, played by Anthony Anderson, as they navigate the challenges of raising their children in a predominantly white upper-middle-class neighborhood.
What makes Black-ish stand out is its ability to tackle important social issues with humor and sensitivity. The series addresses topics such as race, identity, and cultural heritage, often sparking meaningful conversations while delivering laughs. This blend of comedy and social commentary makes Black-ish a thought-provoking and entertaining series for fans of "Modern Family" looking for a comedy with substance.
In addition to its engaging storytelling, Black-ish is celebrated for its talented cast, including Tracee Ellis Ross, Yara Shahidi, and Laurence Fishburne, who bring depth and humor to their roles. The show's ability to balance humor with poignant storytelling has earned it critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base, making it a must-watch for those seeking a comedy that resonates with today's cultural landscape.
Superstore: Retail Realness
Superstore offers a comedic glimpse into the lives of employees at Cloud 9, a fictional big-box retail store. The series follows a diverse group of characters as they navigate the challenges of working in retail, from dealing with demanding customers to forming unlikely friendships with their coworkers. With its witty writing and relatable humor, Superstore provides a fresh take on the workplace comedy genre.
What sets Superstore apart is its ability to capture the absurdity of retail life while highlighting the struggles and triumphs of its characters. The show's ensemble cast, led by America Ferrera and Ben Feldman, brings a variety of comedic styles to the screen, creating dynamic and humorous interactions. The chemistry between the cast members adds to the series' charm, making it a delight to watch.
In addition to its humor, Superstore tackles important social issues, such as workers' rights, immigration, and healthcare, with sensitivity and wit. This blend of comedy and social commentary makes Superstore a thought-provoking and entertaining series that's perfect for fans of "Modern Family" seeking a comedy with depth and relevance.
Arrested Development: Dysfunctional Family Drama
Arrested Development is a comedy series that explores the dysfunctional dynamics of the Bluth family, a wealthy but troubled clan dealing with the fallout of their patriarch's arrest. With its clever writing, unique narrative style, and memorable characters, Arrested Development has become a cult classic in the world of television comedy.
One of the show's standout features is its intricate storytelling and use of recurring jokes and catchphrases. Arrested Development's witty and fast-paced humor keeps viewers engaged, while its satirical take on wealth and privilege adds an extra layer of depth to the series. The show's ability to balance humor with social commentary makes it a must-watch for fans of "Modern Family" seeking a comedy with substance.
In addition to its clever writing, Arrested Development is celebrated for its talented ensemble cast, including Jason Bateman, Michael Cera, and Will Arnett, who bring depth and humor to their roles. The chemistry between the cast members and their ability to deliver sharp comedic performances make Arrested Development a timeless comedy that continues to resonate with audiences.
Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Quirky Optimism
Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt is a comedy series that follows the adventures of Kimmy Schmidt, played by Ellie Kemper, as she navigates life in New York City after being rescued from a doomsday cult. With its quirky humor and optimistic tone, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt offers a refreshing and unique take on the traditional sitcom format.
One of the show's standout features is its whimsical and offbeat storytelling. Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt embraces its quirky premise, delivering a mix of absurd humor and heartwarming moments. The series' ability to tackle serious topics with humor and sensitivity adds to its appeal, making it a must-watch for fans of "Modern Family" seeking a comedy with a unique perspective.
In addition to its humor, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt boasts a talented ensemble cast, including Tituss Burgess, Jane Krakowski, and Carol Kane, who bring depth and humor to their roles. The chemistry between the cast members and their ability to deliver sharp comedic performances make Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt a delightful and entertaining series that's perfect for those seeking a comedy with a touch of whimsy.
Community: College Capers
Community is a comedy series that follows a diverse group of students at Greendale Community College as they navigate the challenges of college life. With its clever writing, unique storytelling style, and memorable characters, Community has gained a dedicated following and critical acclaim.
What sets Community apart is its ability to blend humor with creative storytelling. The series is known for its use of meta-humor, pop culture references, and genre-bending episodes, which add to its appeal and keep viewers engaged. The show's ability to balance humor with meaningful storytelling makes it a must-watch for fans of "Modern Family" seeking a comedy with substance.
In addition to its engaging storytelling, Community boasts a talented ensemble cast, including Joel McHale, Alison Brie, and Donald Glover, who bring depth and humor to their roles. The chemistry between the cast members and their ability to deliver sharp comedic performances make Community a timeless comedy that continues to resonate with audiences.
The Goldbergs: 80s Nostalgia
The Goldbergs is a comedy series that offers a nostalgic look at family life in the 1980s. The show follows the Goldberg family, led by matriarch Beverly Goldberg, played by Wendi McLendon-Covey, as they navigate the challenges of raising three kids during a time of big hair, neon clothes, and iconic pop culture.
What makes The Goldbergs stand out is its ability to capture the essence of the 1980s while delivering heartfelt and humorous storytelling. The show's use of real-life experiences and anecdotes from creator Adam F. Goldberg adds an authentic and relatable touch to the series, making it a delight for fans of nostalgic comedies.
In addition to its humor, The Goldbergs is celebrated for its talented cast, including Jeff Garlin and Sean Giambrone, who bring depth and humor to their roles. The show's ability to balance humor with heartfelt storytelling has earned it critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base, making it a must-watch for those seeking a comedy that resonates with the joys and challenges of family life.
New Girl: Roommate Shenanigans
New Girl is a comedy series that follows the adventures of Jess Day, played by Zooey Deschanel, as she navigates life in Los Angeles with her quirky roommates. With its witty writing, endearing characters, and humorous take on modern relationships, New Girl offers a fresh and entertaining perspective on the traditional sitcom format.
One of the show's standout features is its character-driven humor and the chemistry between its ensemble cast. From the charming and awkward Jess to the lovable and eccentric Schmidt, New Girl boasts a diverse cast of characters who bring a variety of comedic styles to the series. The show's ability to balance humor with heartfelt moments makes it a must-watch for fans of "Modern Family" seeking a comedy with both laughs and heart.
In addition to its engaging storytelling, New Girl is celebrated for its talented cast, including Jake Johnson, Max Greenfield, and Lamorne Morris, who bring depth and humor to their roles. The chemistry between the cast members and their ability to deliver sharp comedic performances make New Girl a timeless comedy that continues to resonate with audiences.
Veep: Political Satire
Veep is a comedy series that offers a satirical take on the world of politics. The show follows the career of Selina Meyer, played by Julia Louis-Dreyfus, as she navigates the challenges of being Vice President (and later President) of the United States. With its sharp writing, witty humor, and memorable characters, Veep provides a unique and entertaining perspective on the political landscape.
One of the show's standout features is its ability to blend humor with incisive political commentary. Veep's clever writing and fast-paced dialogue keep viewers engaged, while its satirical take on the absurdities of politics adds an extra layer of depth to the series. The show's ability to balance humor with social commentary makes it a must-watch for fans of "Modern Family" seeking a comedy with substance.
In addition to its clever writing, Veep is celebrated for its talented ensemble cast, including Tony Hale, Anna Chlumsky, and Reid Scott, who bring depth and humor to their roles. The chemistry between the cast members and their ability to deliver sharp comedic performances make Veep a timeless comedy that continues to resonate with audiences.
Curb Your Enthusiasm: Awkward Humor
Curb Your Enthusiasm is a comedy series that follows the fictionalized version of Larry David, co-creator of Seinfeld, as he navigates the absurdities of everyday life. With its improvisational style, awkward humor, and relatable situations, Curb Your Enthusiasm offers a unique and entertaining take on the traditional sitcom format.
One of the show's standout features is its ability to capture the humor in everyday situations and social interactions. Curb Your Enthusiasm's use of improvised dialogue and unscripted moments adds an authentic and spontaneous touch to the series, making it a delight for fans of observational humor.
In addition to its humor, Curb Your Enthusiasm is celebrated for its talented cast, including Cheryl Hines, Jeff Garlin, and J.B. Smoove, who bring depth and humor to their roles. The show's ability to balance humor with relatable storytelling has earned it critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base, making it a must-watch for those seeking a comedy that resonates with the absurdities of modern life.
FAQs
1. What is a good show to watch after Modern Family?
If you enjoyed "Modern Family," you might like "The Office" or "Parks and Recreation" for their similar mockumentary style and humor.
2. Are there any other family comedies like Modern Family?
"Schitt's Creek" and "The Goldbergs" offer heartwarming family dynamics with plenty of laughs, making them great alternatives.
3. Which show has a strong ensemble cast like Modern Family?
"Brooklyn Nine-Nine" features a talented ensemble cast with diverse characters, making it a fun and engaging watch.
4. What comedy series tackles social issues like Modern Family?
"Black-ish" combines humor with insightful social commentary, making it a thought-provoking and entertaining series.
5. Are there any comedies that offer a unique storytelling style?
"The Good Place" and "Community" both feature creative storytelling and unique premises that set them apart from traditional comedies.
6. What series blends humor with heartfelt moments?
"New Girl" offers a mix of humor and heart with its endearing characters and modern relationship dynamics.
In conclusion, the world of television is rich with comedy series that can fill the void left by "Modern Family." Whether you're in the mood for a mockumentary-style show, a family-focused comedy, or a series with a unique twist, there's something out there for everyone. From classics like "The Office" to modern gems like "Brooklyn Nine-Nine," the options are endless. Happy watching!