Skip to content Skip to sidebar Skip to footer
Menu
Menu
TV Show

10 Hilarious Shows like Curb Your Enthusiasm That You Need To Check Out

February 12, 2023
shows like curb your enthusiasm

Curb Your Enthusiasm is a popular television show that has been entertaining audiences for over 20 years. This show, created by Larry David, is a comedic take on the life of a semi-retired television writer and producer. If you are a fan and looking for shows like Curb Your Enthusiasm, here’s a list of 10 similar shows you might like; check it out. From Larry’s best friend Jeff to his ex-wife Cheryl, to his manager Susie, each character is unique and brings something special to the show. The show is also known for its numerous celebrity cameos, with famous actors and comedians appearing in nearly every episode.

List of TV Shows Like Curb Your Enthusiasm 

  1. The Comeback
  2. Extras
  3. Seinfeld 
  4. Arrested Development 
  5. Silicon Valley 
  6. 30 Rock
  7. Entourage 
  8. Life Is Too Short
  9. Vice Principles 
  10. It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia 

1. The Comeback (2005)

This show stars Lisa Kudrow as a former sitcom star trying to make a comeback in Hollywood. The show is a mockumentary-style comedy that is both hilarious and cringe-worthy. Protagonists of both shows, often being selfish and egoistic engage in funny, relatable, and cringe-worthy moments.

Comeback features Steve Coogan as himself, a struggling actor trying to revive his career. Similar to series like Curb Your Enthusiasm, this show is set up as a mockumentary that follows Coogan as he attempts to make a comeback in the entertainment industry. Throughout the series, Coogan faces various obstacles, from dealing with difficult co-stars to trying to secure a role in a major film.

2. Extras (2005)

This British show, Extras created by and starring Ricky Gervais is another mockumentary series that follows the life of a struggling actor and his attempts to make it in the entertainment industry. The characters of Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant are 2 extras in the film and television. For shows similar to Curb Your Enthusiasm, this one might be perfect, and I’ll tell you why:

There’s humour and often absurd takes on real-life situations. In terms of production style, both Extras and Curb Your Enthusiasm are shot in a similar manner, with hand-held cameras and natural lighting to create a more raw and authentic feel. Additionally, both shows feature improvisational elements, with the actors often ad-libbing their lines to create more spontaneous and natural interactions.

3. Seinfeld (1989)

Seinfeld is a classic show created by Curb Your Enthusiasm’s Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld. This is a situational comedy that follows the life of a stand-up comedian (Jerry playing an exaggerated version of himself) and his various misadventures. Seinfeld has not only spawned some of the most iconic characters and lines of all time, but it has had one of the largest influences on TV in history.

The best asset of the show is easily its writing. Very rarely has there been a sitcom or a show even where the writing is consistently witty and hilarious; even in the weaker episodes, it makes its mark. The storylines and episode ideas are outstanding, maybe it doesn’t always cover new ground, but the situations are always superbly realised and priceless. Seinfeld should be your next watch after a series like Curb Your Enthusiasm.

4. Arrested Development (2003)

This show is a comedy about a dysfunctional family and their various misadventures. Arrested Development is clever, witty, and filled with lovable characters. Similar to shows like Curb Your Enthusiasm, Arrested Development is a show that is built around its characters, and the humour that arises from their misfortunes and predicaments. If you’ve already seen this brilliant and hilarious series, check out our list of shows like Arrested Development.

Arrested Development follows the Bluth family, a wealthy and eccentric family whose world is turned upside down after the family patriarch is arrested for fraud. The show’s main character, Michael Bluth, must navigate the family’s various trials and tribulations while trying to maintain some semblance of normalcy. The show’s humor is characterized by witty one-liners, clever references, and absurd situations.

5. Silicon Valley (2014)

Silicon Valley quickly became a fan favourite among those interested in the tech industry. The show is a hilarious and thought-provoking commentary on the Silicon Valley startup culture, its eccentric personalities, and the cutthroat competition that defines it. If you’re already a fan of this witty series, check out our list of recommendations for shows like Silicon Valley.

Silicon Valley uses comedic devices such as irony, satire, and absurdity to highlight the ridiculousness of the world it depicts. Silicon Valley, similar to series like Curb Your Enthusiasm, features a cast of quirky and endearing characters who are each struggling to navigate the challenges of their respective industries. 

6. 30 Rock (2006)

30 Rock is a critically acclaimed sitcom that features semi-autobiographical elements. The show is set behind the scenes of a fictional sketch comedy show and follows the antics of writer Liz Lemon, played by Tina Fey, and her boss, Jack Donaghy, played by Alec Baldwin. 30 Rock received numerous awards and accolades, including several Emmys, and has been praised as one of the greatest sitcoms of all time.

30 Rock and Curb Your Enthusiasm have both garnered critical acclaim for their humor and unique storytelling style. Both shows were created and produced by their respective lead actors, Tina Fey and Larry David. This gives the shows a strong personal touch and allows the creators to bring their own life experiences and observations to the screen. 30 Rock is a very bridge-worthy option if you’re looking for shows like Curb Your Enthusiasm.

7. Entourage (2004)

Entourage is a popular American comedy-drama television series that lasted 8 seasons. The show was created by Doug Ellin and was widely acclaimed for its unique blend of humor, drama, and style. The series revolves around the life of Vincent Chase, a young and talented actor, and his group of friends, who are his entourage, as they navigate the ups and downs of Hollywood life.

The most notable similarity between Entourage and a series like Curb Your Enthusiasm, is the way they both deal with the theme of celebrity culture. The series tackles common issues that many young adults face in their personal and professional lives. Whether it’s dealing with fame, friendship, relationships, or career struggles, Entourage touches on many relevant topics that audiences can easily connect with.

8. Life Is Too Short (2011)

Created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, Life is Too Short is a British sitcom that follows the life of Warwick Davis, a famous British actor, as he navigates his daily life and struggles with his height, which is just over three feet tall. Despite its quirky and lighthearted tone, the show packs a powerful punch and delivers some serious life lessons that we can all learn from.

In conclusion, Life is too Short is a show that is worth watching for its humor, Warwick Davis’ performance, guest stars, and real-life situations. It is a must-watch for anyone who is looking for a good laugh or is a fan of comedy shows like Curb Your Enthusiasm.

9. Vice Principles (2016)

Vice Principals is a dark comedy series that centers around the two Vice Principals of a high school, Gamby (Danny McBride) and Russell (Walton Goggins). The show follows their power struggle as they both compete for the position of Principal of the school. The series is known for its unique blend of humor and drama, as it explores the characters’ relationships, personal lives, and the situations they face.

Their dark humor and the comedic portrayal of the main characters. However, Vice Principals is more of a character-driven comedy, as it explores the relationships and personal lives of the characters. Similar to shows like Curb Your Enthusiasm, Vice Principals is worth checking out for their humor and entertaining storylines.

10. It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia (2005)

It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia is a dark comedy series that first aired in 2005. The show revolves around a group of friends, known as “The Gang,” who run a bar in South Philadelphia. They engage in a series of misadventures and schemes, often leading to disastrous consequences. Despite the negative traits of the characters, the show is highly entertaining, with sharp writing and clever humor. 

Over the years, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia has developed a loyal fanbase and has become one of the longest-running live-action comedy series on television. From Mac’s misguided attempts at being cool, to Frank’s greedy schemes, to Dennis’ misogynistic behaviour, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia fits the quirky yet loveable vibe of shows like Curb Your Enthusiasm.

Honourable Mentions 

Here are a few hilarious comedy shows like Curb Your Enthusiasm that didn’t make the list, but you can check them as well: 

  1. Barry 
  2. Veep
  3. The Larry Sanders show
Share Post

When Lost aired over a decade ago, its successful narrative created a pop culture impact and changed the landscape of television. If you are a fan and want to watch shows like Lost then you can have a look at this list we made just for you.

Lost

The hugely successful television series Lost aired in 2004. The premise, as we know, deals with a group of people surviving a commercial passenger plane crash on a remote island. The show masterfully explores supernatural and sci-fi elements on this mysterious south Pacific island. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTu8iDynwNc

The use of cliffhangers at the end of each episode of Lost kept the viewers on the edge of their seats, desperately craving for the next episode to come. Even though it's a large ensemble cast, most of the characters receive a justifiable personal arch. Lost was inspired by the movie Castaway and became one of the most expensive pilots to be shot at the time! Lost continues to be appreciated for its originality in storytelling and dynamic character arcs. 

List of TV Shows Like Lost

  1. The Leftovers
  2. Manifest
  3. Lost Room
  4. Twin Peaks
  5. The Prisoners
  6. Battlestar Galactica
  7. The New People
  8. Flight 29 Down
  9. Fringe
  10. Alcatraz
  11. Under the Dome
  12. Dark

1. The Leftovers (2014)

IMDB ratings: 8.3/10

Cast: Carrie Coon, Justin Theroux, Amy Brenneman and Margaret Qualley

Creator: Damon Lindelof and Tom Perrotta

The director of Lost, Damon Lindel also created a supernatural drama series called The Leftovers. The show begins 3 years after an unexplainable global event called ‘Sudden Departure’  where almost 2 per cent of the population, nearly 140 million people, disappear. The Leftovers isn't about WHY people are gone, it's about how the ones who remain dealt with their loss, people often try to comfort themselves with dreams, angels, gods, or even death.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FLT3YUALJno&t=8s

The Leftovers will leave you with so many questions but beyond words, you have to feel it and savour its unanswered questions to find peace. The Leftovers is an incredible television series that starts incredibly well but loses its way by the series's end. I have to say though, Carrie Coon has brilliant moments in the end. The Leftovers is so weird, fragmented and nonsensical at times that it reminds me of Lost. If you are looking for shows like Lost, I recommend that you give The Leftovers a try.

2. Manifest  (2018) 

IMDB ratings: 7.1/10

Cast: Melissa Roxburgh, Josh Dallas and J.R. Ramirez 

Creator: Jeff Rake


The Manifest is a supernatural drama show about a bunch of people who discover that they lost 5 years of their lives when they landed in New York after their aeroplane faced severe turbulence. All the people on the plane were presumed to be dead. Now, these people have to find a way to adjust themselves to a new life around their loved ones. Mild spoiler! They learn their loved ones and the rest of society is not as they left it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1hNAIzkQWY

I found that the show’s premise was very intriguing and the actors give a very convincing performance. The narrative details of the show, however, in my opinion, are a bit sloppy and inconsistent. The writers surely have room for improvement but their concept is incredibly thrilling. Every episode of Manifest keeps you on your toes. Manifest has completed 3 seasons up until now and continues to be on air. Manifest is a pretty good choice if you want to watch TV shows like Lost.

3. Lost Room (2006)

IMDB ratings: 8.1/10

Cast: Peter Krause, Julianna Margulies and Peter Jacobson

Creator: Christopher Leone, Laura Harkcom

This lesser-known show The Lost Room is an American Sci-fi television miniseries which only had 3 episodes of 90 mins each and no follow-up seasons. The show was based on a very unique idea where the room in question (known as the ‘Lost Room’) and the objects in the said room had supernatural powers. This strange room is set in a 1960s motel along the iconic U.S. Route 66. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DfWrECLnFYU

One day the protagonist (Peter Krause) Joe Miller’s daughter disappears inside the room. Joe, with the help of objects present in the room, tries to find his daughter Anna (Elle Fanning). The story of Lost Room was intensely engaging. I found the direction and the actor’s performances to be absolutely brilliant. It baffles me that the creators did not return to make another short season within the same concept. If you have been searching for TV series like Lost then I can assure you that Lost Room will be worth a watch.

4. Twins Peaks (1990) 

IMDB ratings: 8.8/10

Cast: Kyle MacLachlan, Mädchen Amick, Sherilyn Fenn and David Lynch

Creator: David Lynch

David Lynch, the well-known director of weird and captivating films such as Eraserhead and Blue Velvet created an iconic show called Twin Peaks. It is a hauntingly eccentric show about the investigation of the mysterious murder of a small-town homecoming queen named Laura Palmer. Believe me, as odd as the show may seem at first, you will grow to love it, after all, it is considered to be one of the best mystery shows ever created. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zwn9ou_nf-I

With the mysteries, the supernatural elements and the list of bizarre characters, Twin Peaks has it all. In my opinion, the cinematography of the show was truly ahead of its time. Kyle’s Dale Cooper was especially entertaining. Twin Peaks’ experimental formula of the satirical soap opera is extremely unsettling yet rewarding to watch, I must warn you, it’s not for the faint-hearted!  If you are in search of TV shows like Lost then Twin Peaks won’t disappoint you.

The Prisoners (1967)

IMDB ratings: 8.5/10

Cast: Patrick McGoohan, Angelo Muscat and Geroge Markstien

Creator: Patrick McGoohan


The Prisoner centres around an unnamed British agent (Patrick McGoohan) who tries to flee his country after abruptly quitting his high-ranking government job. He is abducted and held captive in a strange ‘sea-side’ village that is isolated from the rest of the world. This village is a highly secure and monitored place filled with weird technology. There are only 17 episodes to this late 60s show but it manages to bring up such surreal surprises, it's sure to leave a great impact on the viewer.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JrNr85fPms

The Prisoner’s unique concept influenced many popular shows including Lost. The creators of Lost even cited the show. I was very impressed by how ahead of its time The Prisoners proves to be. If you want to watch more shows similar to Lost the Prisoners should definitely be on your list.

6. Battlestar Galactica (2004)

IMDB ratings: 8.7/10

Cast: Katee Sackhoff, Edward James Olmos and Tricia Helfer 

Creator: Glen A. Larson

The 2004 Battlestar Galactica is a reboot of the original 1978 miniseries of the same name. Do not be mistaken by the title, the show is not related to Star Trek.  Battlestar Galactica is set in the 7th millennium AD and follows Cylons, the robot enemy of humanity that resurfaces to destroy the 12 colonies of Mankind. Only a few survive and are able to escape on ships led by a powerful warship called Battlestar Galactica. Mankind struggles to fight the Cylons and work their own political agendas and disputes while finding their long-lost 13th colony Earth.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnYsf2Yv8i8

The show is a dark, intense and gritty socio-political commentary with EPIC cinematic value. The script is especially clever and as a huge fan of sci-fi shows, this show ticks the boxes in all the right categories. When the show was released, it blew the viewers and critics away. As far as an obsessive and gripping story goes, Battlestar Galactica is one of the most similar to shows like Lost. 

7. The New People (1969)

IMDB ratings: 7.3/10

Cast: David Moses, Zooey hall and Tiffany Boiling

Creator: Larry Gordon Aaron Spelling

The New People is an American Tv series that aired only for 1 season and is focused on a couple of college students who survive a plane crash. The incident takes place while they were returning from a trip to Southeast Asia, their plane crashes on an island in the south of the Pacific ocean. 

By now this show must already be sounding a lot like Lost to you, and it surely is. The remaining group of people discover an unusual truth about the island: there’s an above-ground unused nuclear test site filled with supplies for the survivors. If you want to see more plane survival stories like Lost then The New People should definitely be on your list.

8. Flight 29 Down (2005)

IMDB ratings: 7.2/10

Cast: Allen Alvarado, Halle Hirsh and Corbin Bleu

Creator:  Stan Rowgow D. J. MacHale

The show Flight 29 Down is a drama series about a group of pre-teens/teens who are stranded on a South Pacific island after their plane crashes in a tropical storm while they were flying from an eco-adventure camping trip in Palau. The show is in many ways a younger version of the Adult-centred show Lost but sans the supernatural elements. I’d say that the show draws inspiration from the show The New People.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MLeG0w3kL8k

Flight 29 Down uses the technique of a video diary as a plot device for the viewers to keep up with the story of these children. It was very engaging to watch young intelligent characters finding their way on the island. The first two seasons of the show are quite engaging but I seemed to lose interest in its 3rd and final season. Regardless, Flight 29 Down is a really good series to watch if you want to see TV shows like Lost.

9. Fringe (2008)

IMDB ratings: 8.4/10

Cast: Anna Torv, John Noble and Joshua Jackson

Creator: J. J. Abrams, Alex Kurtzman, and Roberto Orci

Fringe is a popular Sci-fi crime drama television series. It may seem like a standard procedural drama at first, but the show actually explores the parallel universe, alternate versions of people filled with crazy scientific experiments. I personally had a great time watching this show.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29bSzbqZ3xE

Fringe is actually inspired by shows like Lost, The X-files and The Twilight Zone. The 3 main characters of the show work with a special division called Fringe. There are so many brilliant twists and turns in Fringe that in my opinion, the show is at the top of its category. If you are searching for TV series like Lost, I strongly recommend you watch Fringe. 

10. Alcatraz (2012)

IMDB ratings: 6.9/10

Cast: Sarah Jones, George Garcia and Jonny Coyne 

Creator: Elizabeth Sarnoff, Steven Lilien, Bryan Wynbrandt

This American fiction show is based on the infamous Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary built on Alcatraz island in San Francisco Bay. The prison is now closed but once kept some of the most dangerous criminals of America. The show takes the liberty to make a show around the conspiracies of the place.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V514ACIGp_k

In the interesting premise we see that under unknown circumstances, 256 inmates and 46 guards of the prison disappear without a trace. Later the disappeared ones start to appear one by one without ageing a day and resume their criminal activities with no realisation of disappearance. A special government unit is dedicated to finding and putting those criminals back in prison. If you are looking for mystery shows similar to Lost, try watching Alcatraz. 

11. Under the Dome (2013)

IMDB ratings: 6.5/10

Cast: Alexander Koch and Rachelle Lefevre

Creator: Stephen King

Based on a novel written by the sci-fi legend Stephen King, Under the Dome tells the story of the residents of the fictional small town called Chester's Mill, when a huge, transparent and indestructible dome suddenly cuts them off from the rest of the world. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_Y5YeYrqUk

Now the trapped residents try to find a way to discover the truth, origin and purpose of these domes. This journey forces them into situations where they learn more about each other than they ever knew. Under the Dome may not be on the top of this list but it’s quite a decent watch if you’re looking for mystery shows similar to Lost. 

12. Dark (2017)

IMDB ratings: 8.7/10

Cast: Louis Hofmann, Lisa Vicari and Gina Stiebitz

Creator: Baran bo Odar, Jantje Friese

The German-language Netflix series Dark is an interesting blend of Science fiction and Mystery. Truly a compelling and mind-bending story to watch. At the beginning of Dark, many children suspiciously start disappearing in the German town of Winden. The dark past of generational mysteries of 4 families living in the town namely, Kahnwald, Nielsen, Doppler, and Tiedemann is brought to light.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rrwycJ08PSA

After the discovery of a wormhole, the lives of the families intertwine more than one can imagine. I believe every element of the show is top-notch, especially Dark’s cinematography, which is a TRUE masterpiece. If you are looking for TV series similar to Lost then the intense and gripping story of Dark is sure to keep you engrossed.

Honourable Mentions

Here are a few TV shows like Lost that didn’t make the list, but you can check them out nonetheless: 

  1. Carnivale
  2. Yellowjackets
  3. Game of Thrones
  4. Black Mirror
  5. Flashforward
Similar Lists