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16 Animated Shows Like Rick and Morty for Fans of Adventure and Dark Humour

June 27, 2023
Shows like Rick and Morty

Rick and Morty’s unique blend of sci-fi, humour, and adventure makes it a thrilling and engaging viewing show to watch. Fans are drawn to the show’s creative and imaginative storylines that explore complex themes and concepts in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. If you’re also a fan, then for your consideration we have curated a list of adventurous shows like Rick and Morty, have a look!

The show seamlessly blends sci-fi concepts with dark comedy and existential themes. It’s a great show to watch because it challenges viewers with complex narratives, witty dialogue, and sharp social commentary, all while maintaining a lighthearted and self-aware tone. If you like Rick and Morty‘s outrageous antics, then we hope you will enjoy our list below.

List of TV Shows Like Rick and Morty

  1. Futurama
  2. BoJack Horseman
  3. Archer
  4. Gravity Falls
  5. The Venture Bros.
  6. Final Space
  7. Disenchantment
  8. South Park
  9. The Boondocks
  10. Bob’s Burgers
  11. Adventure Time
  12. The Midnight Gospel
  13. Big Mouth
  14. The Simpsons
  15. Close Enough
  16. Solar Opposites

1. Futurama (1999)

Futurama is the adventures of Fry, a pizza delivery boy who, after being cryogenically frozen for 1,000 years, wakes up in the 31st century. He quickly finds himself working for an interstellar delivery company, alongside a cast of characters that includes Bender, a sarcastic, heavy-drinking robot, and Leela, a one-eyed mutant who serves as the captain of their ship.

Similar to shows like Rick and Morty, Futurama’s humour is witty and irreverent, and the show is known for its clever references to science and technology. The characters are flawed yet endearing, so if you like to watch shows with sci-fi elements that satirize societal norms, Futurama is the best pick! 

2. BoJack Horseman (2014)

BoJack Horseman is a darkly humorous show that follows the life of a washed-up Hollywood actor who also happens to be a horse. The show is an introspective and comedic exploration of mental health, addiction, and the toxicity of fame. BoJack is a complex and flawed character who is both relatable and frustrating. 

BoJack Horseman is quite similar to shows like Rick and Morty but is grounded in a more realistic setting. BoJack also tends to be more emotionally raw, with the ability to make viewers laugh and cry. It’s a must-watch for anyone who enjoys adult animation that isn’t afraid to tackle difficult subjects.

Also Read: Shows Like The White Lotus 

3. Archer (2009)

Archer is an adult animated spy sitcom about the life and adventures of Sterling Archer, a talented but narcissistic spy who works for his mother’s espionage agency. Archer is famous for its witty one-liners, pop culture references, and satirical take on spy movies. 

One thing that especially makes it satisfying to watch is its retro-style animation and colour schemes. Writers of Archer are not afraid to tackle sensitive topics and create characters that are flawed and vulnerable. If you are looking for great animated shows like Rick and Morty to watch, then Archer is perfect for you. 

4. Gravity Falls (2012)

Twin siblings Dipper and Mabel Pines spend their summer with their great-uncle Stan in a mystery town called Gravity Falls, Oregon. Though this is a kid’s show, viewers of all ages love watching this show for its highly engaging and mysterious plot. The characters are quirky and such a delight to watch!Interestingly, the creator of Rick and Morty, Justin Rolaind, voices Blendin Blandin on Gravity Falls, as well as the incidental characters Bobby Renzobbi and the Mattress King.

The show has been praised for its excellent storytelling and overall creativity. It is a show that can be enjoyed by anyone and has left a lasting impact on its viewers. Gravity Falls uses these codes and hidden messages, making it more interesting for viewers to decipher. So go on and watch Gravity Falls after shows like Rick and Morty, you won’t be disappointed!

Also Read: Shows like Stranger Things

5. The Venture Bros. (2003)

The Venture Bros. is a beloved animated series that follows the adventures of the Venture family, including the inept but well-meaning father, the hapless sons Hank and Dean, and their bodyguard, Brock Samson. Set in a world of super-science, villains, and heroes, the show is a hilarious and loving parody of classic adventure cartoons and comic books. 

Similar to shows like Rick and Morty, The Venture Bros. is full of references and Easter eggs that reward attentive viewers, while its characters are all richly developed and endearing. The show also isn’t afraid to take risks, being nostalgic, often subverting audience expectations and defying genre conventions. All in all, The Venture Bros. is a must-watch if you love smart, funny, and irreverent animation.

6. Final Space (2016)

Final Space follows the adventures of a prisoner named Gary meets a powerful alien named Mooncake, and together they embark on an adventurous journey to save the universe from an evil entity known as the Lord Commander. The series has a unique blend of humour, action, and heart. The show features top-notch voice acting from talents like David Tennant, Fred Armisen, and Conan O’Brien.

Final Space creates a visually stunning world similar to a series like Rick and Morty. One thing worth noting is the show’s well-crafted plot, which is full of twists and turns, and a true delight for the viewers. The series is a mix of sci-fi and comedy, focusing on an ensemble cast in linear storytelling. If you enjoy animated series that has something to offer for everyone, then you should definitely give this one a try!

7. Disenchantment (2016)

The Mastermind Matt Groening, behind the famous series The Simpsons and Futurama, created Disenchantment, a show about a hard-drinking princess named Bean, her elf friend Elfo, and her personal demon Luci. Set in a fantasy world called Dreamland, the characters are often flawed and relatable, making them easy to root for.  

Disenchantment blends humour with a compelling story, delivering a refreshing take on the fantasy genre. It’s the kind of show where the protagonist is deeply flawed and is ideally unlikeable, yet you can’t help but like them. If you enjoy a series like Rick and Morty, then you will enjoy Disenchantment’s way of tackling complex themes with irreverent humour. 

8. South Park (1997)

South Park is a long-running American adult animated tv series about 4 boys named Stan Marsh, Kyle Broflovski, Eric Cartman, and Kenny McCormick. Set in a fictional town of South Park, Colorado, the series uses crude animation and dark comedy to tackle various social and political issues. The series is known for its irreverent, boundary-pushing humour, although It has often been criticized for its crude humour and offensive content, but also been praised for its satire and commentary on contemporary issues. 

In it’s run, South Park has been nominated for numerous awards and has won 5 Primetime Emmy Awards. The series is so popular that it was adapted into a few video games and a feature film. For those who enjoy dark humour and satire, South Park has over 300 episodes spanning over 2 decades, so you won’t run out of episodes to watch anytime soon!

9. The Boondocks (2004)

The Boondocks is a satirical animated series based on his comic strip of the same name. In the fictional suburb of Woodcrest, the series follows the lives of the Freeman family, particularly young brothers Huey and Riley, as they navigate issues of race, politics, and culture in a predominantly white community. 

The show is more parodical in its humour, often using social commentary to explore contemporary issues facing the African American community. The series is well-praised for its sharp writing, engaging characters, and willingness to tackle difficult topics. Although it was controversial at times, The Boondocks has gained a dedicated fanbase since and is now considered a landmark in the world of adult animation.

10. Bob’s Burgers (2011)

Centring around the Belcher family, who run a small burger restaurant, the series Bob’s Burgers looks at their life as the family faces daily struggles, run-ins with quirky customers, and attempts to keep the restaurant afloat. The main character, Bob, is the restaurant’s owner and chef, while his wife, Linda, manages the business. They have three children, Tina, Gene, and Louise, each with their distinct personalities and quirks. 

Bob’s Burgers is a unique and excellent show because of its setting and ability to balance heartfelt storytelling with humour. The show is very inclusive, consisting of diverse characters and their struggles, something that is not often seen in animated shows. So, if you want to see a great humorous, heartfelt show, Bob’s Burgers is the right show for you.

11. Adventure Time (2010)

Adventure Time is yet another great series you should be watching! The series revolves around the adventures of a boy named Finn and his best friend, a shape-shifting dog named Jake, in the post-apocalyptic Land of Ooo. Along the way, they encounter various characters, including the Ice King, Princess Bubblegum, and Marceline the Vampire Queen, and go on missions to save the world from various threats. 

The show has gained a cult all thanks to its unique blend of humour, heart, and surrealism, and its ability to appeal to both children and adults. Adventure Time has also been praised for its imaginative world, memorable characters, and emotional storytelling, a series with 6 Primetime Emmy Awards in its bag! I highly recommend this series for its nuanced and heart-warming appeal, it is a series to be cherished. 

Already seen Adventure Time? Check out Shows like Adventure Time

12. The Midnight Gospel (2020)

The Midnight Gospel is a psychedelic animated series that follows Clancy, a space caster who travels through a multiverse simulator to interview beings on different planets about existential topics. Each episode features a different guest and explores themes such as life, death, spirituality, and morality. Despite its colourful and whimsical animation, the show discusses deep topics and tackles tough situations. 

However, its unconventional storytelling and abstract visuals may not be for everyone. “The Midnight Gospel” is an experience that challenges viewers to contemplate their own perspectives on life and the universe.

The Midnight Gospel is a good show to watch because of its different approach to storytelling and its ability to provoke philosophical discussions among its viewers. The show’s abstract visuals are definitely not for everyone, but if you find them comfortable, then you will enjoy it since it also has a multiversal aspect to it. If you want to see a show that stands out in the world of animated shows, The Midnight Gospel is one you need to give a try. 

13. Big Mouth (2017)

Big Mouth is an awkwardly hilarious show that centres around a group of middle school friends as they navigate the confusing and awkward world of puberty. The series brings up sensitive topics such as sex education, menstruation, and mental health in a humorous yet informative way. Viewers not only love the characters but relate to their struggles. 

Big Mouth’s voice cast includes the talented comedians John Mulaney, Jessi Klein, and Maya Rudolph. This may be a bit of a reach in terms of similarity with Rick and Morty, as the themes are pretty different, but the humour is worth it.

14. Simpsons (1989)

In a list of funny animated series, it’s hard not to mention the classic, The Simpsons. 

Considering you haven’t already seen it, this is a long-running animated sitcom that has become a cultural phenomenon. The show follows the lives of the Simpson family, consisting of Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie, as they navigate their way through everyday life in the fictional town of Springfield. The Simpsons is known for its satire, as well as its iconic catchphrases and memorable characters. 

Needless to say, the show has won numerous awards, and even after 3 decades, it continues to entertain audiences around the world. Their family may seem normal at first, but the more you see, the more wonder how would a family like this ever survive! The show is absolutely worth considering if haven’t ever come around to watching it.  

15. Close Enough (2020)

Close Enough revolves around a young couple, Josh and Emily, who are trying to navigate the challenges of being parents, roommates, and aspiring artists in Los Angeles. The show is quirky, with relatable characters, witty dialogue, and colourful animation. The show usually focuses on the issues such as relationships, parenting, and friendship. 

Though Close Enough may have a more lighthearted and family-oriented tone, in contrast to Rick and Morty’s darker tone, it won’t feel boring or bland at any point. Close Enough is a great comfort show for anyone who loves a great adult animated series.

Also Read: Shows like Invincible

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16. Solar Opposites (2020)

Many people enjoy watching the alien world through the lenses of Morty and Rick, what if there was a series that did it the other way round?  Solar Opposites follows the adventures of a family of aliens as they try to integrate into human society on Earth. The show was co-created by Rick and Morty’s Justin Roiland and Mike McMahan, so you should surely expect great things.  

The main characters are Korvo, Terry, Yumyulack, and Jesse, who have fled their home planet and crash-landed in suburban America. With wacky humour, sci-fi references, and biting satire, each episode explores a different aspect of human behaviour through the lens of the aliens’ naive and clueless perspectives. Saving the best for the last, Solar Opposites is an un-missable series for you!

Honourable Mentions 

Here are a few shows like Rick and Morty that didn’t make this list, but you can check them out nonetheless: 

  1. Tuca & Bertie
  2. Community
  3. Family Guy
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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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