What to watch after Modern Family? That's the question swirling around in the minds of fans who have just bid farewell to the beloved Pritchett-Dunphy-Tucker clan. After eleven heartwarming and hilarious seasons, the void left by the end of the series can feel daunting. Fear not, as the world of television is vast and full of gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you're looking for something similar in style or eager to explore a different genre altogether, there's a treasure trove of shows that promise to entertain, engage, and perhaps even rival the charm of Modern Family.
Modern Family has set the bar high with its unique blend of humor, heart, and relatable family dynamics. It's no wonder fans are seeking out shows with similar qualities. The good news is that television has evolved significantly, offering a plethora of series that not only carry forward the spirit of Modern Family but also introduce new narratives and fresh perspectives. From mockumentary-style comedies to heartfelt dramas, the options are plentiful and diverse, catering to every taste and preference.
As we delve into the world of television post-Modern Family, we'll explore a variety of shows that have captured the essence of what made the Pritchett-Dunphy-Tucker family so beloved. With a focus on quality storytelling, memorable characters, and engaging plots, our curated list will guide you through a selection of series that are sure to become your next binge-worthy obsession. So, grab your remote, settle into your favorite spot on the couch, and get ready to embark on a new television journey that promises laughter, tears, and everything in between.
Table of Contents
- Mockumentary-Style Comedies
- Heartfelt Family Dramas
- Ensemble Cast Sitcoms
- Quirky and Offbeat Comedies
- Dramedies that Blend Genres
- Shows with Strong Family Themes
- Exploring Diverse Family Dynamics
- Shows with a Touch of Nostalgia
- Animated Series for the Whole Family
- International Gems
- Critically Acclaimed Series
- Underrated Gems
- Shows that Focus on Friendship
- Light-Hearted Reality TV
- Frequently Asked Questions
Mockumentary-Style Comedies
The mockumentary style has gained significant popularity, thanks in part to Modern Family's success. This genre cleverly combines fictional storytelling with documentary-style filmmaking, creating a unique viewing experience that feels both intimate and engaging. If you enjoyed Modern Family's format, you might find yourself drawn to other mockumentary-style comedies that offer a similar blend of humor and heart.
One show that stands out in this category is "The Office." Set in a mundane office environment, this series follows the everyday lives of employees working at Dunder Mifflin Paper Company. With its quirky characters, hilarious antics, and relatable workplace scenarios, "The Office" has become a classic in its own right. The show's ability to capture the mundane and make it entertaining is a testament to its brilliance.
Another gem in the mockumentary genre is "Parks and Recreation." Set in the fictional town of Pawnee, Indiana, this series revolves around the dedicated employees of the Parks Department. Led by the optimistic and passionate Leslie Knope, the team navigates the complexities of local government while maintaining a strong sense of camaraderie and humor. "Parks and Recreation" is celebrated for its witty writing, lovable characters, and heartwarming moments that resonate with audiences.
If you're seeking a show that takes the mockumentary style to a new setting, "What We Do in the Shadows" might be the perfect choice. Based on the 2014 film of the same name, this series offers a hilarious and unique take on the lives of vampires living together in Staten Island. With its clever humor, memorable characters, and supernatural twist, "What We Do in the Shadows" provides a fresh perspective on the mockumentary genre.
These mockumentary-style comedies offer a delightful blend of humor, relatable situations, and endearing characters, making them worth exploring for fans of Modern Family. Whether you're revisiting classics like "The Office" and "Parks and Recreation" or delving into newer offerings like "What We Do in the Shadows," you're sure to find a series that captures the essence of what makes the mockumentary genre so beloved.
Heartfelt Family Dramas
For fans of Modern Family who appreciate the emotional depth and storytelling of family dynamics, heartfelt family dramas provide a compelling viewing experience. These shows delve into the intricacies of familial relationships, offering narratives that are both poignant and relatable.
"This Is Us" is a standout in this category, known for its ability to tug at the heartstrings with every episode. The series follows the lives of the Pearson family across different timelines, exploring themes of love, loss, and resilience. With its well-crafted storytelling and exceptional performances, "This Is Us" has resonated with audiences, earning praise for its emotional depth and authenticity.
Another family drama worth exploring is "Parenthood." This series centers around the Braverman family, capturing the joys and challenges of family life with honesty and warmth. Through its multi-generational cast, "Parenthood" explores themes of parenting, relationships, and personal growth, offering a heartfelt portrayal of the complexities of modern family life.
If you're looking for a drama that combines family dynamics with a touch of mystery, "Big Little Lies" might be the perfect choice. Set in the picturesque town of Monterey, California, this series delves into the lives of a group of women whose seemingly perfect lives unravel in unexpected ways. With its stellar cast and gripping storyline, "Big Little Lies" offers a compelling exploration of friendship, secrets, and the impact of past decisions.
Heartfelt family dramas like "This Is Us," "Parenthood," and "Big Little Lies" provide a rich narrative experience, capturing the essence of what it means to be part of a family. These series offer a perfect balance of emotional depth, relatable characters, and engaging storytelling, making them ideal choices for fans seeking a more introspective viewing experience after Modern Family.
Ensemble Cast Sitcoms
One of the defining features of Modern Family is its ensemble cast, bringing together diverse characters to create a dynamic and engaging narrative. For those who appreciate the chemistry and camaraderie of an ensemble cast, sitcoms in this category offer a similar appeal.
"Brooklyn Nine-Nine" is a standout ensemble cast sitcom that has garnered a dedicated fan base. Set in the fictional 99th precinct of the NYPD, the series follows the hilarious antics of Detective Jake Peralta and his colleagues. With its witty humor, diverse cast, and clever writing, "Brooklyn Nine-Nine" delivers a perfect blend of comedy and camaraderie.
Another ensemble cast sitcom worth exploring is "Community." Set in the fictional Greendale Community College, the series follows a diverse group of students who form an unlikely study group. With its unique blend of humor, pop culture references, and meta-commentary, "Community" has become a cult favorite, known for its creativity and clever storytelling.
"The Good Place" is another ensemble cast sitcom that offers a fresh and innovative take on comedy. The series follows Eleanor Shellstrop, who finds herself in the afterlife's "Good Place" despite her questionable past. With its clever premise, thought-provoking themes, and strong ensemble cast, "The Good Place" delivers both laughs and philosophical insights.
These ensemble cast sitcoms provide a delightful viewing experience, capturing the essence of camaraderie and humor that fans of Modern Family love. Whether you're exploring the precinct antics of "Brooklyn Nine-Nine," the creative storytelling of "Community," or the philosophical musings of "The Good Place," you're sure to find a sitcom that offers both laughter and heart.
Quirky and Offbeat Comedies
For fans seeking something a bit different, quirky and offbeat comedies offer a refreshing departure from traditional sitcoms. These shows embrace unconventional storytelling, unique characters, and unexpected humor, making them a perfect choice for those looking to explore new comedic horizons.
"Arrested Development" is a standout in this category, known for its clever writing, quirky characters, and intricate plotlines. The series follows the eccentric Bluth family, whose dysfunctional antics provide endless laughter and entertainment. With its witty humor and unique narrative style, "Arrested Development" has garnered a cult following and remains a fan favorite.
Another offbeat comedy worth exploring is "Schitt's Creek." The series follows the wealthy Rose family, who find themselves penniless and forced to live in a small town they once purchased as a joke. With its heartwarming moments, witty humor, and lovable characters, "Schitt's Creek" has received widespread acclaim and has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.
If you're in the mood for something truly unique, "The IT Crowd" might be the perfect choice. Set in the fictional IT department of the Reynholm Industries, the series follows the socially awkward IT staff as they navigate office life. With its quirky humor and memorable characters, "The IT Crowd" offers a delightful and unconventional viewing experience.
Quirky and offbeat comedies like "Arrested Development," "Schitt's Creek," and "The IT Crowd" provide a refreshing and entertaining departure from traditional sitcoms. These series embrace their uniqueness, offering humor, heart, and a touch of the unexpected, making them ideal choices for fans seeking new comedic adventures after Modern Family.
Dramedies that Blend Genres
Dramedies, a genre that blends elements of drama and comedy, offer a unique viewing experience that captures the complexities of real life. For fans of Modern Family who appreciate both humor and emotional depth, dramedies provide a perfect balance of laughter and introspection.
"Orange Is the New Black" is a standout dramedy that has captivated audiences with its compelling characters and engaging storyline. Set in a women's prison, the series explores the lives of inmates as they navigate the challenges of incarceration. With its blend of humor, drama, and social commentary, "Orange Is the New Black" offers a thought-provoking and entertaining viewing experience.
Another dramedy worth exploring is "Fleabag." Created by and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge, the series follows the life of a young woman living in London as she navigates relationships, family, and personal challenges. With its sharp wit, emotional honesty, and groundbreaking storytelling, "Fleabag" has garnered critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.
"The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" is another dramedy that combines humor and drama in a delightful way. Set in the 1950s, the series follows Miriam "Midge" Maisel as she pursues a career in stand-up comedy after her marriage falls apart. With its witty dialogue, stunning visuals, and strong performances, "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" offers a captivating and entertaining viewing experience.
Dramedies like "Orange Is the New Black," "Fleabag," and "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel" provide a rich narrative experience, capturing the complexities of life with humor and heart. These series offer a perfect balance of laughter and introspection, making them ideal choices for fans seeking a more nuanced viewing experience after Modern Family.
Shows with Strong Family Themes
For fans of Modern Family who appreciate the exploration of family dynamics, shows with strong family themes offer a compelling viewing experience. These series delve into the intricacies of familial relationships, offering narratives that are both relatable and heartwarming.
"Gilmore Girls" is a standout in this category, known for its witty dialogue and charming portrayal of the mother-daughter relationship. The series follows Lorelai and Rory Gilmore as they navigate the challenges of life in the small town of Stars Hollow. With its blend of humor, heart, and memorable characters, "Gilmore Girls" has become a beloved classic.
Another series worth exploring is "The Fosters." This family drama follows the lives of the Foster family, a diverse group of adopted and biological children raised by a same-sex couple. With its exploration of important social issues and strong family bonds, "The Fosters" offers a heartfelt and engaging viewing experience.
If you're looking for a family-themed series with a touch of fantasy, "Once Upon a Time" might be the perfect choice. Set in the fictional town of Storybrooke, the series intertwines classic fairy tales with modern-day narratives. With its imaginative storytelling and exploration of family, love, and redemption, "Once Upon a Time" offers a captivating and magical viewing experience.
Shows with strong family themes like "Gilmore Girls," "The Fosters," and "Once Upon a Time" provide a rich narrative experience, capturing the essence of familial relationships with humor and heart. These series offer a perfect balance of relatability, emotional depth, and engaging storytelling, making them ideal choices for fans seeking a family-centric viewing experience after Modern Family.
Exploring Diverse Family Dynamics
Modern Family is celebrated for its portrayal of diverse family dynamics, offering a refreshing and inclusive perspective on contemporary family life. For fans who appreciate this aspect of the series, shows that explore diverse family dynamics provide a rich and engaging viewing experience.
"One Day at a Time" is a standout in this category, known for its exploration of a multi-generational Cuban-American family. The series follows Penelope Alvarez, a single mother and military veteran, as she navigates the challenges of raising her two children with the help of her mother. With its blend of humor, heart, and cultural authenticity, "One Day at a Time" offers a compelling and relatable portrayal of family life.
Another series worth exploring is "Fresh Off the Boat." Based on the memoir of chef Eddie Huang, the series follows the Huang family as they navigate life in suburban Orlando during the 1990s. With its exploration of cultural identity, humor, and family dynamics, "Fresh Off the Boat" provides a unique and entertaining perspective on the immigrant experience.
If you're interested in a series that explores LGBTQ+ family dynamics, "Transparent" is a noteworthy choice. The series follows the Pfefferman family as they navigate the challenges and revelations that arise when their patriarch comes out as transgender. With its exploration of identity, family bonds, and personal growth, "Transparent" offers a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant viewing experience.
Shows that explore diverse family dynamics like "One Day at a Time," "Fresh Off the Boat," and "Transparent" provide a rich narrative experience, capturing the complexities and joys of family life with authenticity and heart. These series offer a perfect balance of humor, relatability, and cultural exploration, making them ideal choices for fans seeking a diverse and inclusive viewing experience after Modern Family.
Shows with a Touch of Nostalgia
For fans of Modern Family who appreciate a sense of nostalgia, shows that evoke memories of the past offer a comforting and enjoyable viewing experience. These series capture the essence of bygone eras, offering a blend of humor, heart, and familiarity.
"Stranger Things" is a standout in this category, known for its nostalgic nods to 1980s pop culture and classic sci-fi and horror films. Set in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, the series follows a group of kids as they encounter supernatural phenomena and uncover government conspiracies. With its blend of suspense, adventure, and nostalgia, "Stranger Things" has become a cultural phenomenon.
Another series that offers a touch of nostalgia is "The Goldbergs." Set in the 1980s, the series follows the Goldberg family as they navigate the ups and downs of family life. With its humorous and heartwarming portrayal of a bygone era, "The Goldbergs" captures the essence of growing up in the '80s with authenticity and charm.
If you're in the mood for a series that combines nostalgia with humor and heart, "Young Sheldon" might be the perfect choice. A prequel to "The Big Bang Theory," the series follows the early life of Sheldon Cooper as he navigates childhood and adolescence in East Texas. With its blend of humor, nostalgia, and endearing characters, "Young Sheldon" offers a delightful and entertaining viewing experience.
Shows with a touch of nostalgia like "Stranger Things," "The Goldbergs," and "Young Sheldon" provide a comforting and enjoyable viewing experience, capturing the essence of bygone eras with humor and heart. These series offer a perfect balance of familiarity, nostalgia, and engaging storytelling, making them ideal choices for fans seeking a nostalgic viewing experience after Modern Family.
Animated Series for the Whole Family
For fans of Modern Family who enjoy family-friendly entertainment, animated series offer a delightful and engaging viewing experience. These shows captivate audiences of all ages with their imaginative storytelling, colorful characters, and universal themes.
"The Simpsons" is a standout in this category, known for its clever humor, cultural commentary, and iconic characters. Set in the fictional town of Springfield, the series follows the lives of the Simpson family as they navigate the ups and downs of everyday life. With its blend of satire, heart, and timeless humor, "The Simpsons" has become a beloved classic.
Another animated series worth exploring is "Bob's Burgers." The series follows the Belcher family as they run a small burger restaurant and navigate the challenges of family life. With its quirky humor, endearing characters, and heartwarming moments, "Bob's Burgers" offers a delightful and entertaining viewing experience.
If you're in the mood for an animated series with a touch of fantasy and adventure, "Adventure Time" might be the perfect choice. Set in the Land of Ooo, the series follows the adventures of Finn the Human and his best friend Jake the Dog as they explore a whimsical and magical world. With its imaginative storytelling, memorable characters, and universal themes, "Adventure Time" offers a captivating and enchanting viewing experience.
Animated series like "The Simpsons," "Bob's Burgers," and "Adventure Time" provide a delightful and engaging viewing experience, capturing the imagination and heart of audiences of all ages. These series offer a perfect balance of humor, creativity, and universal themes, making them ideal choices for fans seeking family-friendly entertainment after Modern Family.
International Gems
For fans of Modern Family who are eager to explore new cultures and perspectives, international series offer a rich and diverse viewing experience. These shows provide a window into different cultures, offering narratives that are both engaging and enlightening.
"Money Heist" (La Casa de Papel) is a standout in this category, known for its gripping storyline, complex characters, and high-stakes drama. The Spanish series follows a group of criminals as they execute a meticulously planned heist on the Royal Mint of Spain. With its blend of suspense, action, and character development, "Money Heist" has captivated audiences worldwide.
Another international gem worth exploring is "Dark." This German series combines elements of mystery, science fiction, and family drama to create a captivating and mind-bending narrative. Set in the small town of Winden, the series follows four interconnected families as they uncover a time travel conspiracy spanning several generations. With its intricate plot, atmospheric visuals, and thought-provoking themes, "Dark" offers a unique and immersive viewing experience.
If you're interested in a lighthearted and heartwarming international series, "Kim's Convenience" might be the perfect choice. This Canadian sitcom follows the everyday lives of a Korean-Canadian family running a convenience store in Toronto. With its blend of humor, cultural authenticity, and relatable family dynamics, "Kim's Convenience" offers a delightful and entertaining viewing experience.
International gems like "Money Heist," "Dark," and "Kim's Convenience" provide a rich and diverse viewing experience, capturing the essence of different cultures with engaging storytelling and memorable characters. These series offer a perfect balance of entertainment, cultural exploration, and universal themes, making them ideal choices for fans seeking an international viewing experience after Modern Family.
Critically Acclaimed Series
For fans of Modern Family who appreciate quality storytelling and exceptional performances, critically acclaimed series offer a rewarding and enriching viewing experience. These shows have garnered praise for their innovative narratives, compelling characters, and artistic excellence.
"Breaking Bad" is a standout in this category, known for its gripping storyline, complex characters, and masterful storytelling. The series follows Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer, as he navigates the dangerous world of drug trafficking. With its blend of suspense, drama, and moral dilemmas, "Breaking Bad" has become a cultural phenomenon and is widely regarded as one of the greatest television series of all time.
Another critically acclaimed series worth exploring is "The Crown." This historical drama chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, offering a detailed and captivating portrayal of the British monarchy. With its stunning visuals, impeccable performances, and meticulous attention to detail, "The Crown" has received widespread acclaim and numerous awards.
If you're interested in a series that combines science fiction with social commentary, "Black Mirror" might be the perfect choice. This anthology series explores the dark and often dystopian aspects of modern society and technology. With its thought-provoking themes, innovative storytelling, and unsettling narratives, "Black Mirror" offers a unique and impactful viewing experience.
Critically acclaimed series like "Breaking Bad," "The Crown," and "Black Mirror" provide a rewarding and enriching viewing experience, capturing the essence of quality storytelling and artistic excellence. These series offer a perfect balance of entertainment, thought-provoking themes, and exceptional performances, making them ideal choices for fans seeking a critically acclaimed viewing experience after Modern Family.
Underrated Gems
For fans of Modern Family who love discovering hidden treasures, underrated gems offer a delightful and rewarding viewing experience. These series may not have received widespread recognition, but they possess unique qualities and storytelling brilliance that make them worth exploring.
"The Middle" is a standout in this category, known for its relatable portrayal of family life in middle America. The series follows the Heck family as they navigate the challenges of raising three children in a small town. With its blend of humor, heart, and authenticity, "The Middle" offers a charming and endearing viewing experience.
Another underrated gem worth exploring is "Happy Endings." This sitcom follows a group of friends navigating the ups and downs of life in Chicago. With its witty humor, clever writing, and strong ensemble cast, "Happy Endings" offers a delightful and entertaining viewing experience that has gained a dedicated fan base.
If you're interested in a series that combines comedy with a touch of fantasy, "Pushing Daisies" might be the perfect choice. The series follows Ned, a pie-maker with the ability to bring the dead back to life with a touch. With its whimsical storytelling, quirky humor, and unique premise, "Pushing Daisies" offers a captivating and enchanting viewing experience.
Underrated gems like "The Middle," "Happy Endings," and "Pushing Daisies" provide a delightful and rewarding viewing experience, capturing the essence of hidden treasures with humor, heart, and creativity. These series offer a perfect balance of entertainment, originality, and engaging storytelling, making them ideal choices for fans seeking an underrated viewing experience after Modern Family.
Shows that Focus on Friendship
For fans of Modern Family who appreciate the importance of friendship, shows that focus on this theme offer a heartwarming and relatable viewing experience. These series capture the essence of camaraderie, support, and the bonds that form between friends.
"Friends" is a standout in this category, known for its iconic portrayal of friendship and humor. The series follows a group of friends living in New York City as they navigate the ups and downs of life, love, and work. With its blend of humor, heart, and memorable moments, "Friends" has become a cultural phenomenon and remains a beloved classic.
Another series that celebrates friendship is "Parks and Recreation." Set in the fictional town of Pawnee, Indiana, the series follows the dedicated employees of the Parks Department as they work together to improve their community. With its witty humor, lovable characters, and strong sense of camaraderie, "Parks and Recreation" offers a delightful and entertaining viewing experience.
If you're interested in a series that combines friendship with a touch of mystery, "Stranger Things" might be the perfect choice. The series follows a group of kids in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, as they encounter supernatural phenomena and uncover government conspiracies. With its blend of suspense, adventure, and strong bonds of friendship, "Stranger Things" offers a captivating and nostalgic viewing experience.
Shows that focus on friendship like "Friends," "Parks and Recreation," and "Stranger Things" provide a heartwarming and relatable viewing experience, capturing the essence of camaraderie and support with humor and heart. These series offer a perfect balance of entertainment, relatability, and engaging storytelling, making them ideal choices for fans seeking a friendship-focused viewing experience after Modern Family.
Light-Hearted Reality TV
For fans of Modern Family who enjoy unscripted entertainment, light-hearted reality TV offers a fun and engaging viewing experience. These shows capture real-life moments with humor, heart, and a touch of drama, making them perfect for viewers seeking something entertaining and relatable.
"The Great British Bake Off" is a standout in this category, known for its delightful portrayal of amateur bakers competing in a series of challenges. With its blend of humor, warmth, and mouthwatering creations, "The Great British Bake Off" has become a beloved favorite among viewers worldwide.
Another light-hearted reality TV show worth exploring is "Queer Eye." The series follows the "Fab Five" as they transform the lives of individuals through fashion, grooming, food, culture, and design. With its uplifting message, heartwarming moments, and positive impact, "Queer Eye" offers a feel-good and entertaining viewing experience.
If you're interested in a reality TV show that combines competition with creativity, "Project Runway" might be the perfect choice. The series follows aspiring fashion designers as they compete in a series of challenges to showcase their skills and creativity. With its blend of fashion, drama, and inspiration, "Project Runway" offers an engaging and entertaining viewing experience.
Light-hearted reality TV shows like "The Great British Bake Off," "Queer Eye," and "Project Runway" provide a fun and engaging viewing experience, capturing real-life moments with humor, heart, and creativity. These series offer a perfect balance of entertainment, relatability, and inspiration, making them ideal choices for fans seeking light-hearted reality TV after Modern Family.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What shows are similar to Modern Family?
Shows like "The Office," "Parks and Recreation," and "Brooklyn Nine-Nine" offer a similar blend of humor and heart as Modern Family. These series feature ensemble casts, clever writing, and relatable situations that fans of Modern Family may enjoy.
2. What are some heartfelt family dramas to watch after Modern Family?
Heartfelt family dramas like "This Is Us," "Parenthood," and "Big Little Lies" provide compelling narratives that explore the complexities of family dynamics. These series offer a perfect balance of emotional depth, relatable characters, and engaging storytelling.
3. Are there any underrated gems worth exploring after Modern Family?
Underrated gems like "The Middle," "Happy Endings," and "Pushing Daisies" offer unique qualities and storytelling brilliance. These series provide a delightful and rewarding viewing experience with humor, heart, and creativity.
4. What are some international series to explore after Modern Family?
International gems like "Money Heist," "Dark," and "Kim's Convenience" offer a rich and diverse viewing experience. These series provide engaging storytelling and cultural exploration, capturing the essence of different cultures with authenticity and heart.
5. What animated series are suitable for the whole family?
Animated series like "The Simpsons," "Bob's Burgers," and "Adventure Time" offer a delightful and engaging viewing experience for audiences of all ages. These series captivate viewers with imaginative storytelling, colorful characters, and universal themes.
6. What are some light-hearted reality TV shows to watch after Modern Family?
Light-hearted reality TV shows like "The Great British Bake Off," "Queer Eye," and "Project Runway" provide a fun and engaging viewing experience. These series offer real-life moments with humor, heart, and creativity, making them perfect for viewers seeking entertaining and relatable content.
In conclusion, the vast world of television offers a plethora of options for fans seeking what to watch after Modern Family. From mockumentary-style comedies to heartfelt family dramas, ensemble cast sitcoms, and international gems, there's something for everyone. As you embark on your next television journey, we hope this curated list will guide you to discover new favorites that capture the essence of what made Modern Family so beloved.
For more recommendations on what to watch after Modern Family, you can explore Rotten Tomatoes for reviews and ratings of various TV shows.
