What to watch after Modern Family? It's a question that many fans find themselves pondering after bidding farewell to the beloved Pritchett-Dunphy clan. Modern Family, with its witty humor, relatable characters, and heartwarming moments, has left a void in the hearts of its viewers. The show's unique blend of comedy and family dynamics created a formula that resonated with audiences for over a decade. As you search for your next binge-worthy series, it's essential to find something that can fill that Modern Family-sized gap in your life.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore an array of television shows that capture the essence of Modern Family while offering fresh perspectives and storylines. From sitcoms that embrace the hilarity of family life to dramas that delve into the complexities of relationships, there's something for everyone. Each show has been carefully selected to cater to different tastes and preferences, ensuring that you'll find a new favorite to enjoy.
Whether you're in the mood for laugh-out-loud comedy, heartfelt drama, or a bit of both, this guide has got you covered. We'll delve into the plotlines, character dynamics, and unique elements that make each show a worthy successor to Modern Family. So sit back, relax, and let us take you on a journey through the wonderful world of television as we help you discover your next viewing obsession.
Table of Contents
- The Appeal of Modern Family
- Sitcoms That Capture Family Dynamics
- Heartwarming Dramas to Dive Into
- Shows with Unique Storytelling
- Comedy Series with Fresh Humor
- Exploring Diverse Family Structures
- Animated Series for the Whole Family
- Classic Sitcoms Worth Revisiting
- Shows with Strong Female Leads
- Series Focused on Friendship
- Underrated Gems to Discover
- International Comedies and Dramas
- Fantasy and Sci-Fi Alternatives
- Reality Shows with a Family Twist
- FAQs
- Conclusion: Finding Your Next Favorite Show
The Appeal of Modern Family
Modern Family captivated audiences with its clever writing, relatable characters, and the warmth of its storytelling. The show's unique mockumentary format allowed viewers to feel like they were a part of the Pritchett-Dunphy family, witnessing their ups and downs firsthand. The diverse cast brought a variety of perspectives to the screen, making the show feel inclusive and representative of different family structures.
At its core, Modern Family was about love, acceptance, and the importance of family. The show tackled real-life issues with humor and sensitivity, making it a favorite among viewers of all ages. One of the reasons Modern Family resonated with so many people is its ability to balance comedy with heartfelt moments, creating a perfect blend of entertainment and emotion.
As we explore alternatives to Modern Family, it's essential to keep in mind what made the show special. The following sections will highlight series that capture the essence of Modern Family while offering new and exciting narratives to enjoy.
Sitcoms That Capture Family Dynamics
When looking for what to watch after Modern Family, sitcoms that focus on family dynamics are a great place to start. These shows often feature relatable characters, humorous situations, and heartwarming themes that make them enjoyable for the whole family.
Schitt's Creek
Schitt's Creek is a Canadian sitcom that follows the wealthy Rose family as they lose their fortune and are forced to live in a small town they once bought as a joke. The show beautifully portrays the family's journey of adapting to their new lifestyle and forming genuine connections with the quirky residents of Schitt's Creek. With its heartfelt humor and lovable characters, Schitt's Creek has become a modern classic, earning critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine
Brooklyn Nine-Nine is a comedic take on the lives of detectives in a New York City police department. The show combines clever humor with engaging storylines, offering a fresh perspective on the traditional workplace sitcom. The diverse ensemble cast brings a range of personalities to the screen, making for a dynamic and entertaining viewing experience. While not focused solely on family, the strong bonds between the characters create a sense of camaraderie that fans of Modern Family will appreciate.
The Goldbergs
The Goldbergs is a nostalgic sitcom set in the 1980s, following the lives of the Goldberg family. The show draws inspiration from creator Adam F. Goldberg's real-life experiences growing up in a suburban household. With its mix of humor, heart, and retro references, The Goldbergs offers a delightful trip down memory lane while exploring the timeless themes of family and adolescence.
Heartwarming Dramas to Dive Into
If you're in the mood for something more dramatic, there are plenty of heartwarming dramas that can fill the void left by Modern Family. These shows often explore complex relationships and emotional journeys, offering viewers a deeper connection to the characters and their stories.
This Is Us
This Is Us is a critically acclaimed drama series that follows the lives of the Pearson family across multiple generations. The show masterfully weaves together past and present timelines, revealing the intricate connections between family members and the events that shape their lives. With its emotional storytelling and relatable characters, This Is Us has become a favorite among audiences seeking a heartfelt and thought-provoking viewing experience.
Parenthood
Parenthood is a family drama series that focuses on the Braverman clan, exploring the challenges and triumphs of raising children and maintaining relationships. The show offers a realistic portrayal of family life, tackling issues such as parenting, marriage, and career struggles with sensitivity and authenticity. With its strong ensemble cast and engaging storylines, Parenthood is a must-watch for fans of heartfelt dramas.
Friday Night Lights
Friday Night Lights is a compelling drama series set in the small town of Dillon, Texas, where high school football is a way of life. The show delves into the lives of the players, their families, and the community, exploring themes of ambition, loyalty, and the pursuit of dreams. With its powerful storytelling and well-drawn characters, Friday Night Lights offers a captivating and emotional viewing experience that extends beyond the football field.
Shows with Unique Storytelling
For viewers seeking something different, there are several shows that employ unique storytelling techniques to create engaging and innovative narratives. These series often push the boundaries of traditional television, offering fresh perspectives and creative approaches to storytelling.
The Good Place
The Good Place is a thought-provoking comedy series that explores the concept of the afterlife and what it means to be a good person. The show follows Eleanor Shellstrop, who finds herself in the idyllic "Good Place" despite her less-than-perfect life on Earth. With its clever premise, witty writing, and unexpected twists, The Good Place offers a fresh take on the comedy genre while posing existential questions about morality and redemption.
Fleabag
Fleabag is a British comedy-drama series created by and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge. The show follows the titular character, a witty and conflicted woman navigating life and relationships in London. With its unique blend of humor and poignancy, Fleabag offers a raw and honest portrayal of the complexities of modern life. Waller-Bridge's innovative use of breaking the fourth wall adds an intimate and engaging dimension to the storytelling.
Russian Doll
Russian Doll is a mind-bending comedy-drama series that follows Nadia Vulvokov, a woman who finds herself stuck in a time loop, reliving the same night over and over again. As she attempts to unravel the mystery behind her predicament, Nadia embarks on a journey of self-discovery and introspection. With its intriguing premise and inventive storytelling, Russian Doll offers a captivating and thought-provoking viewing experience.
Comedy Series with Fresh Humor
If you're looking for a good laugh, there are plenty of comedy series that offer fresh humor and witty writing. These shows often feature quirky characters and hilarious situations, providing a welcome escape from the everyday hustle and bustle.
Superstore
Superstore is a workplace comedy set in the fictional Cloud 9 megastore, following the lives of the employees as they navigate the challenges of retail work. The show offers a humorous and satirical take on the retail industry, with its diverse cast of characters bringing a range of comedic styles to the screen. With its witty writing and relatable humor, Superstore offers a delightful and entertaining viewing experience.
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel is a comedy-drama series set in the 1950s, following the life of Miriam "Midge" Maisel, a housewife who discovers a talent for stand-up comedy. The show offers a vibrant and humorous portrayal of Midge's journey to pursue her dreams, with its sharp writing and charismatic performances earning critical acclaim. With its blend of humor and heart, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel offers a fresh and entertaining take on the comedy genre.
Derry Girls
Derry Girls is a British sitcom set in Northern Ireland during the 1990s, following the lives of a group of teenagers as they navigate adolescence amidst the backdrop of political turmoil. The show offers a hilarious and irreverent take on the challenges of growing up, with its witty writing and dynamic cast bringing the characters to life. With its unique setting and relatable humor, Derry Girls offers a fresh and entertaining viewing experience.
Exploring Diverse Family Structures
For viewers interested in exploring diverse family structures, there are several shows that offer a fresh perspective on the complexities of family life. These series often highlight the unique challenges and triumphs faced by families from different backgrounds, providing a more inclusive and representative portrayal of modern family dynamics.
Black-ish
Black-ish is a comedy series that follows the Johnson family as they navigate life in a predominantly white, upper-middle-class neighborhood. The show offers a humorous and insightful take on issues of race, identity, and family dynamics, with its diverse cast bringing a range of perspectives to the screen. With its sharp writing and engaging storytelling, Black-ish offers a fresh and entertaining take on the comedy genre.
One Day at a Time
One Day at a Time is a reboot of the classic 1970s sitcom, following the lives of a Cuban-American family as they navigate the challenges of modern life. The show offers a heartfelt and humorous portrayal of the unique experiences faced by immigrant families, with its diverse cast bringing a range of perspectives to the screen. With its engaging storytelling and relatable humor, One Day at a Time offers a fresh and entertaining take on the family sitcom genre.
Fresh Off the Boat
Fresh Off the Boat is a comedy series based on the memoir of chef Eddie Huang, following the lives of a Taiwanese-American family as they navigate life in suburban Florida. The show offers a humorous and insightful take on issues of identity, culture, and family dynamics, with its diverse cast bringing a range of perspectives to the screen. With its witty writing and engaging storytelling, Fresh Off the Boat offers a fresh and entertaining take on the comedy genre.
Animated Series for the Whole Family
Animated series offer a unique and creative way to explore family dynamics and relationships. These shows often feature colorful characters and imaginative storylines, providing a fun and entertaining viewing experience for viewers of all ages.
Bob's Burgers
Bob's Burgers is an animated sitcom that follows the lives of the Belcher family as they run their struggling burger restaurant. The show offers a humorous and heartwarming portrayal of family life, with its quirky characters and witty writing earning critical acclaim. With its unique animation style and engaging storytelling, Bob's Burgers offers a fresh and entertaining take on the family sitcom genre.
Steven Universe
Steven Universe is an animated series that follows the adventures of Steven, a young boy who is half-human and half-Gem, as he learns to harness his powers and protect the world. The show offers a heartwarming and inclusive portrayal of family dynamics, with its diverse cast of characters and imaginative storytelling earning critical acclaim. With its vibrant animation and engaging narrative, Steven Universe offers a fresh and entertaining take on the animated series genre.
Gravity Falls
Gravity Falls is an animated mystery-comedy series that follows the adventures of twins Dipper and Mabel Pines as they spend the summer with their great-uncle Stan in the mysterious town of Gravity Falls. The show offers a humorous and imaginative take on family dynamics, with its colorful characters and engaging storytelling earning critical acclaim. With its unique animation style and captivating narrative, Gravity Falls offers a fresh and entertaining take on the animated series genre.
Classic Sitcoms Worth Revisiting
For fans of Modern Family, revisiting classic sitcoms can offer a nostalgic and enjoyable viewing experience. These shows often feature timeless humor and relatable characters, providing a delightful trip down memory lane.
Friends
Friends is a classic sitcom that follows the lives of six friends living in New York City as they navigate the challenges of work, relationships, and adulthood. The show's witty writing and lovable characters have earned it a devoted fan base and enduring popularity. With its blend of humor and heart, Friends offers a timeless and entertaining viewing experience.
The Office
The Office is a mockumentary sitcom that follows the lives of employees working at the Dunder Mifflin paper company. The show's unique format and relatable humor have made it a favorite among viewers, with its diverse cast bringing a range of comedic styles to the screen. With its engaging storytelling and witty writing, The Office offers a fresh and entertaining take on the workplace sitcom genre.
Seinfeld
Seinfeld is a classic sitcom that follows the lives of comedian Jerry Seinfeld and his quirky group of friends in New York City. The show's observational humor and relatable characters have earned it a devoted fan base and enduring popularity. With its clever writing and engaging storytelling, Seinfeld offers a timeless and entertaining viewing experience.
Shows with Strong Female Leads
For viewers interested in shows with strong female leads, there are several series that offer empowering and engaging portrayals of women navigating life's challenges. These shows often feature complex and relatable characters, providing a fresh perspective on the traditional television narrative.
Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt
Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt is a comedy series that follows the titular character as she adjusts to life in New York City after being rescued from a doomsday cult. The show's witty writing and vibrant characters offer a humorous and empowering portrayal of resilience and self-discovery. With its engaging storytelling and unique premise, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt offers a fresh and entertaining take on the comedy genre.
Broad City
Broad City is a comedy series that follows the lives of two best friends, Abbi and Ilana, as they navigate life in New York City. The show's irreverent humor and dynamic characters offer a fresh and empowering portrayal of female friendship and independence. With its witty writing and engaging storytelling, Broad City offers a fresh and entertaining take on the comedy genre.
Killing Eve
Killing Eve is a thrilling drama series that follows the cat-and-mouse game between a British intelligence officer and a skilled assassin. The show's complex characters and gripping narrative offer a fresh and empowering portrayal of women in the espionage genre. With its engaging storytelling and captivating performances, Killing Eve offers a fresh and entertaining take on the drama genre.
Series Focused on Friendship
For viewers interested in series focused on friendship, there are several shows that offer a heartwarming and engaging portrayal of the bonds between friends. These series often feature relatable characters and humorous situations, providing a delightful viewing experience.
Parks and Recreation
Parks and Recreation is a mockumentary sitcom that follows the lives of employees working in the Parks Department of the fictional town of Pawnee, Indiana. The show's witty writing and lovable characters offer a humorous and heartwarming portrayal of friendship and teamwork. With its engaging storytelling and unique format, Parks and Recreation offers a fresh and entertaining take on the workplace sitcom genre.
New Girl
New Girl is a comedy series that follows the life of Jess, a quirky schoolteacher, as she moves in with three single guys after a bad breakup. The show's witty writing and dynamic characters offer a humorous and heartwarming portrayal of friendship and personal growth. With its engaging storytelling and relatable humor, New Girl offers a fresh and entertaining take on the comedy genre.
How I Met Your Mother
How I Met Your Mother is a comedy series that follows the life of Ted Mosby as he recounts the story of how he met the mother of his children. The show's unique format and engaging characters offer a humorous and heartwarming portrayal of friendship and love. With its witty writing and captivating storytelling, How I Met Your Mother offers a fresh and entertaining take on the comedy genre.
Underrated Gems to Discover
For viewers looking to discover underrated gems, there are several shows that offer unique and engaging narratives. These series often feature innovative storytelling and relatable characters, providing a fresh and entertaining viewing experience.
Crazy Ex-Girlfriend
Crazy Ex-Girlfriend is a musical comedy-drama series that follows the life of Rebecca Bunch as she impulsively moves to California to pursue a former flame. The show's witty writing and dynamic characters offer a humorous and heartwarming portrayal of self-discovery and personal growth. With its engaging storytelling and unique format, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend offers a fresh and entertaining take on the comedy-drama genre.
Rectify
Rectify is a drama series that follows the life of Daniel Holden as he is released from death row after serving nearly two decades for a crime he may not have committed. The show's thoughtful writing and complex characters offer a compelling and thought-provoking portrayal of redemption and justice. With its engaging storytelling and captivating performances, Rectify offers a fresh and entertaining take on the drama genre.
Better Things
Better Things is a comedy-drama series that follows the life of Sam Fox, a single mother and working actress, as she navigates the challenges of parenting and her career. The show's witty writing and relatable characters offer a heartfelt and humorous portrayal of motherhood and personal growth. With its engaging storytelling and unique perspective, Better Things offers a fresh and entertaining take on the comedy-drama genre.
International Comedies and Dramas
For viewers interested in exploring international comedies and dramas, there are several shows that offer fresh perspectives and engaging narratives. These series often highlight unique cultural experiences and diverse storytelling, providing a more inclusive and representative portrayal of modern life.
Money Heist (La Casa de Papel)
Money Heist is a Spanish heist crime drama series that follows a group of robbers as they carry out an elaborate plan to steal billions from the Royal Mint of Spain. The show's gripping narrative and complex characters offer a compelling and thought-provoking portrayal of crime and justice. With its engaging storytelling and captivating performances, Money Heist offers a fresh and entertaining take on the drama genre.
Call My Agent! (Dix Pour Cent)
Call My Agent! is a French comedy-drama series that follows the lives of talent agents at a prestigious Parisian agency as they navigate the challenges of the entertainment industry. The show's witty writing and engaging characters offer a humorous and insightful portrayal of the complexities of show business. With its unique setting and relatable humor, Call My Agent! offers a fresh and entertaining take on the comedy-drama genre.
Lupin
Lupin is a French mystery thriller series that follows the life of Assane Diop, a gentleman thief inspired by the adventures of Arsène Lupin, as he seeks to avenge his father's wrongful conviction. The show's gripping narrative and dynamic characters offer a fresh and captivating portrayal of crime and justice. With its engaging storytelling and unique premise, Lupin offers a fresh and entertaining take on the thriller genre.
Fantasy and Sci-Fi Alternatives
For viewers interested in exploring fantasy and sci-fi alternatives, there are several shows that offer imaginative and engaging narratives. These series often feature unique worlds and captivating characters, providing a fresh and entertaining viewing experience.
Stranger Things
Stranger Things is a sci-fi horror series set in the 1980s, following the lives of a group of kids in the small town of Hawkins, Indiana, as they encounter supernatural occurrences. The show's gripping narrative and dynamic characters offer a fresh and captivating portrayal of mystery and adventure. With its engaging storytelling and nostalgic references, Stranger Things offers a fresh and entertaining take on the sci-fi genre.
The Mandalorian
The Mandalorian is a sci-fi series set in the Star Wars universe, following the adventures of a lone bounty hunter as he navigates the galaxy's outer reaches. The show's captivating narrative and dynamic characters offer a fresh and engaging portrayal of the Star Wars universe. With its stunning visuals and engaging storytelling, The Mandalorian offers a fresh and entertaining take on the sci-fi genre.
The Witcher
The Witcher is a fantasy drama series based on the book series by Andrzej Sapkowski, following the life of Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter navigating a world filled with magic and danger. The show's gripping narrative and complex characters offer a fresh and captivating portrayal of fantasy and adventure. With its engaging storytelling and stunning visuals, The Witcher offers a fresh and entertaining take on the fantasy genre.
Reality Shows with a Family Twist
For viewers interested in reality shows with a family twist, there are several series that offer a fresh and engaging portrayal of family dynamics. These shows often feature relatable characters and humorous situations, providing a delightful viewing experience.
Queer Eye
Queer Eye is a reality series that follows the "Fab Five" as they transform the lives of individuals in need of a makeover. The show's engaging storytelling and dynamic characters offer a fresh and empowering portrayal of self-discovery and personal growth. With its heartfelt and entertaining narrative, Queer Eye offers a fresh and entertaining take on the reality genre.
The Great British Bake Off
The Great British Bake Off is a reality baking competition that follows amateur bakers as they compete in a series of challenges to become the best baker in the UK. The show's engaging storytelling and dynamic characters offer a fresh and delightful portrayal of competition and camaraderie. With its charming and entertaining narrative, The Great British Bake Off offers a fresh and entertaining take on the reality genre.
Nailed It!
Nailed It! is a reality baking competition that follows amateur bakers as they attempt to recreate complex desserts with humorous and often disastrous results. The show's engaging storytelling and dynamic characters offer a fresh and entertaining portrayal of competition and creativity. With its humorous and delightful narrative, Nailed It! offers a fresh and entertaining take on the reality genre.
FAQs
What makes Modern Family so special?
Modern Family is celebrated for its clever writing, relatable characters, and heartwarming storytelling. The show's unique mockumentary format and diverse cast brought a variety of perspectives to the screen, making it feel inclusive and representative of different family structures. Its ability to balance comedy with heartfelt moments made it a favorite among viewers of all ages.
Why should I consider watching Schitt's Creek after Modern Family?
Schitt's Creek offers a similar blend of humor and heart that fans of Modern Family will appreciate. The show follows the Rose family as they adjust to life in a small town, forming genuine connections with the quirky residents. With its lovable characters and heartfelt humor, Schitt's Creek has become a modern classic, earning critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.
Are there any animated series that capture the essence of Modern Family?
Yes, shows like Bob's Burgers and Steven Universe offer unique and creative portrayals of family dynamics. Bob's Burgers follows the Belcher family as they run their struggling burger restaurant, offering a humorous and heartwarming portrayal of family life. Steven Universe follows the adventures of a young boy learning to harness his powers and protect the world, offering a heartwarming and inclusive portrayal of family dynamics.
What are some classic sitcoms worth revisiting after Modern Family?
Classic sitcoms like Friends, The Office, and Seinfeld offer timeless humor and relatable characters, providing a delightful trip down memory lane. Friends follows the lives of six friends living in New York City, The Office offers a mockumentary take on the workplace sitcom genre, and Seinfeld follows the lives of comedian Jerry Seinfeld and his quirky group of friends in New York City.
Are there any shows with strong female leads to watch after Modern Family?
Yes, shows like Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Broad City, and Killing Eve offer empowering and engaging portrayals of women navigating life's challenges. Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt follows the titular character as she adjusts to life in New York City after being rescued from a doomsday cult, Broad City follows the lives of two best friends navigating life in New York City, and Killing Eve follows the cat-and-mouse game between a British intelligence officer and a skilled assassin.
What are some underrated gems to discover after Modern Family?
Underrated gems like Crazy Ex-Girlfriend, Rectify, and Better Things offer unique and engaging narratives. Crazy Ex-Girlfriend is a musical comedy-drama series that follows the life of Rebecca Bunch as she impulsively moves to California to pursue a former flame, Rectify follows the life of Daniel Holden after being released from death row, and Better Things follows the life of Sam Fox, a single mother and working actress, as she navigates the challenges of parenting and her career.
Conclusion: Finding Your Next Favorite Show
After saying goodbye to Modern Family, finding the perfect show to fill the void can be a daunting task. However, with this comprehensive guide to what to watch after Modern Family, you're well-equipped to discover your next favorite series. Whether you're in the mood for a laugh-out-loud comedy, a heartfelt drama, or something in between, there's a show out there waiting to capture your heart.
As you explore the diverse array of television shows highlighted in this guide, remember to keep an open mind and embrace the unique storytelling and perspectives each series has to offer. From sitcoms that celebrate family dynamics to dramas that delve into the complexities of relationships, there's no shortage of captivating narratives to enjoy.
So grab your popcorn, get comfy, and prepare to embark on a new viewing journey as you discover what to watch after Modern Family. Happy watching!
