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15 Shows Like Fleabag With Some Depth To Its Comedy

April 27, 2023
Shows like Fleabag

Fleabag is a unique and daring show that has captured the hearts of audiences and critics alike with its blend of humor, heart, and raw honesty and for this reason we have created a list of shows like Fleabag that you will surely enjoy.

Fleabag is a critically acclaimed dark comedy series that follows the life of a young woman in London, simply referred to as Fleabag. The series takes a deep dive into Fleabag’s relationships with friends, family, and lovers, as well as her struggles with grief, sex, and guilt. The show was created, written, and starred by the multi-talented Phoebe Waller-Bridge and despite its often heavy themes, the show is known for its hilarious one-liners and moments of unexpected levity, which help to balance the darker elements of the story.

List of TV Shows Like Fleabag

  1. Crashing 
  2. Frayed 
  3. I May Destroy You 
  4. Chewing Gum 
  5. I Hate Suzie 
  6. High Fidelity 
  7. After Life 
  8. Archer 
  9. Bojack Horseman 
  10. Insatiable 
  11. The End of The F***ing World 
  12. I Am Not Okay With This  
  13. Mrs. Fletcher 
  14. Russian Doll 
  15. Sex Education

1. Crashing (2016)

Crashing is a British television comedy-drama series similar to shows like Fleabag with the way it blends humor with poignant moments. The series follows the life of a struggling comedian, Pete, who finds himself homeless after his wife leaves him. He takes refuge in the homes of various comedians and performers, and gets more than he bargained for.

The series also features a mix of scripted and improvisational comedy, giving it a unique and dynamic tone that sets it apart from other sitcoms. Not afraid to try its hand at more serious topics like mental health, and the turmoil of human relationships, will keep you bereft with laughter as well as pondering intensely about some of these themes.

Also Read: Shows like Normal People

2. Frayed (2019)

The series follows the story of Sammy Cooper, a wealthy housewife living in London who finds herself penniless and forced to return to her hometown in Australia. As she tries to adjust to her new life and reconnect with her family, she is forced to confront her past and the secrets she left behind.

Frayed, similar to shows like Fleabag, also deals with some serious themes, ranging from class identity and trauma. Frayed is a touching and hilarious series that will have you rooting for Sammy every step of the way. Whether you’re a fan of comedy or a drama lover, this series is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates good storytelling and memorable characters.

3. I May Destroy You (2020)

I May Destroy You is a British television series created, co-written, and co-directed by Michaela Coel. The series follows the story of Arabella Essiedu, a young writer and social media influencer who is sexually assaulted and must navigate the aftermath of the trauma. As she tries to piece together what happened to her, she begins to take a second look at the friendships and relationships in her life.

One of the standout features of the show is Coel’s fearless and unapologetic portrayal of Arabella and the way she tackles complex and often taboo topics such as sexual assault, trauma, and power dynamics in relationship. If you’re looking for shows like Fleabag with some depth, then this is highly recommended for you. In addition to its powerful themes, I May Destroy You, similar to shows like Fleabag, also has a unique style that blends elements of drama, comedy, and surrealism. This gives it a fresh and captivating tone that sets it apart from other shows on the topic.

4. Chewing Gum (2015)

Chewing Gum is a British television comedy series created, written, and starring Michaela Coel. The series follows the story of Tracey Gordon, a 24-year-old shop assistant living on a London council estate who is trying to navigate adulthood and lose her virginity. Tracey is a quirky and relatable character who is surrounded by a cast of colorful and eccentric friends and family members.

One of the most interesting aspects of Chewing Gum, similar to shows like Fleabag, is the mix of light-hearted comedy with serious themes such as sexuality, religion. The series has been praised for its portrayal of the Black British working class experience and the various class struggles that these individuals go through. You might find yourself learning one or two things by watching this show.

5. I Hate Suzie (2020)

I Hate Suzie is unique in its format, as each episode is divided into two parts: the first part focuses on the impact that a major event has had on Suzie’s life, while the second part delves into Suzie’s imagination as she tries to process her emotions and make sense of the situation. Similar to shows like Fleabag, this series immerses us in the mind of the protagonist, showing us its inner workings and the motivations behind her every action.

Again, this is another show that is not afraid to tackle some serious, and even sometimes, taboo topics. Such as the effects of fame, mental health, and infidelity. It feels even more real as Suzie is written in a very relatable way. Suzie could be your neighbor next door, and it makes everything she goes through seem so much more real for you as the viewer.

Also Read: Shows like Heartbreak High

6. High Fidelity (2020)

The series follows the story of Rob Brooks, a record store owner and music obsessive who is navigating the ups and downs of dating and relationships. As she tries to figure out why she keeps repeating the same dating patterns, she revisits past relationships and learns about the power of self-reflection and growth.

High Fidelity, similar to series like Fleabag, shows us this female protagonist’s growth, in a believable way. This show has been praised for its soundtrack filled with generation-spanning music, and its poignant storytelling. It is a must-watch series for you, if you have an appreciation for both.

7. After Life (2019)

After Life explores the story of Tony Johnson, a journalist who is struggling to come to terms with the death of his wife and the meaning of life. As he tries to navigate his grief and depression, he finds solace in the company of his friends and co-workers, as well as his dog, Brandy.

This show blends humor and heartbreak, in a way that is both insightful and relatable, and recognizable to fans of shows like Fleabag. Although Tony decides to face life by being as sarcastic and cold as he can be, we recognize that he is hurting deep down. It is this masterful writing that can create such an effect that I believe will have you hooked should you decide to watch this comedy-drama.

8. Archer (2009)

Archer is an American adult animated spy comedy series created by Adam Reed. The show first premiered on the FX network in 2009 and has since become a critically acclaimed and widely popular series just like Fleabag. The series follows the adventures of Sterling Archer, a highly skilled, mostly drunk, and egotistical secret agent who works for the International Secret Intelligence Service (ISIS).

Along with a large ensemble cast of side characters, they get up to some crazy shenanigans and get caught up in some awkward scenarios which are sure to provide some hilarious moments for viewers. Archer is a hilarious and action-packed take on the spy genre that will have you laughing out loud and rooting for Sterling and his team every step of the way.

9. Bojack Horseman (2014)

BoJack Horseman is an American adult animated comedy-drama series created by Raphael Bob-Waksberg. The series follows the life of BoJack Horseman, a former 90s sitcom star who is now a washed-up, alcoholic, and depressed celebrity living in Hollywood.

As he tries to reclaim his fame and find meaning in his life, he navigates the ups and downs of fame, addiction, and relationships with his friends, family, and co-workers. Similar to shows like Fleabag, BoJack Horseman is a heartwarming and hilarious series that will have you laughing and crying in equal measure.

10. Insatiable (2018)

The series follows the story of Patty Bladell, a teenager who has struggled with her weight her entire life. After a mysterious accident leaves her with a jaw wired shut, she loses a significant amount of weight and transforms into a confident and vengeful young woman.

One of the main controversies surrounding the show is its depiction of body shaming and its handling of sensitive topics such as eating disorders and body image. Insatiable is a show that elicits strong reactions from its audience. There’s no denying that it’s a series that will leave you with a lot to talk about similar to shows like Fleabag.

Also Read: Shows like 13 Reasons Why

11. The End of The F***ing World (2017)

The End of the F***ing World is a British dark comedy-drama that follows the lives of James, a 17-year-old who thinks he’s a psychopath, and Alyssa, a rebellious teenage girl. The two embark on a road trip together, hoping to escape their mundane lives, but their journey takes a dark turn as James’s violent tendencies begin to emerge.

One of the standout aspects of the show is its unique and intriguing storyline. Its offbeat and unique characters, the likes of which are rarely portrayed on TV, nonetheless as main characters, all combine to make for a memorable and enjoyable experience for viewers and fans of shows like Fleabag.

12. I Am Not Okay With This (2020)

I Am Not Okay with This is a coming-of-age Netflix Original created by Jonathan Entwistle and Christy Hall. Based on the comic book by Charles Forsman, the show follows the life of Sydney Novak, a high school student struggling to deal with her sexuality, family issues, and newly discovered telekinetic powers.

Throughout the show, she faces numerous challenges, including navigating her crush on her best friend Dina, and dealing with the aftermath of her father’s sudden death. I Am Not Okay with This is a must-watch show for anyone who is a fan of coming-of-age stories and the superhero genre. Similar to shows like Fleabag , This show’s mix of humor, drama, and heart makes it an enjoyable experience for viewers.

13. Mrs. Fletcher (2019)

Mrs. Fletcher is a comedic drama series that features Kathryn Hahn as Eve Fletcher, a single mother and divorcée who is trying to navigate the challenges of her empty nest and changing life. Eve is a middle-aged woman who has recently become an empty nester after her son Brendan leaves for college.

Mrs Fletcher, similar to shows like Fleabag, tackles various serious themes such as aging, sexuality, and identity. The character of Eve is complex and relatable, making it easy for the audience to connect with her. Praise has to be reserved for Kathryn Hahn’s portrayal of Eve Fletcher, as she fully embodies the role of a woman trying hard to find herself in a fast-changing world.

14. Russian Doll (2019)

Russian Doll is set in New York City and follows Nadia as she tries to uncover the mystery behind her strange predicament. The time loop is triggered by her 36th birthday party, and as she dies and revives over and over, she learns more about herself, her relationships, and the people around her.

In conclusion, Russian Doll is a must-watch show for fans of dark comedies and time-loop stories. Its unique storyline, relatable protagonist, and standout visuals make it a well-rounded and enjoyable experience similar to TV shows like Fleabag. Whether for its unique and intriguing premise, or just as a good binge-watch, Russian Doll is definitely worth checking out.

15. Sex Education (2019)

Sex Education is a Netflix Original created by Laurie Nunn, and follows the life of Otis Milburn, a high school student who is struggling with his own sexuality and insecurity. Despite his own personal struggles, Otis finds himself becoming an unlikely sex therapist to his classmates, helping them with their own sexual problems and insecurities.

Sex Education is not just a show about sex; it’s a show about relationships, self-discovery, and acceptance of one’s body and sexuality. The show is highly recommended for bringing these themes down to a relatable level for viewers. Even if it doesn’t tackle it all to the best of its ability, it definitely shines a light on them. I am sure this is a show you will find yourself binging through in no time, especially if you are a fan of series like Fleabag.

Also Read: Shows like True Blood

Honourable Mentions:

Here are a few TV shows like Fleabag that didn’t make the list that you can also check out:

  1. Killing Eve
  2. Girls
  3. Transparent
  4. Penny Dreadful
  5. Easy
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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
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