What To Watch If You Love 'Arrested Development'

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Updated May 17, 2024 49 items
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614 votes
146 voters
Voting Rules
Vote up the television series that you know other fans of 'Arrested Development' will love.

Featuring a hilarious cast and sharp writing, Arrested Development is easily one of the funniest shows ever. If you’re searching for ideas about what to watch after Arrested Development, these TV shows and movies are a great place to start. The best movies and shows like Arrested Development feature dysfunctional families and meta-humor. In this list, you'll find everything from Community to Curb Your Enthusiasm to 30 Rock.

What programs will you vote to the top of this list? Maybe you're a fan of Knives Out, a movie that centers on a family of freeloaders caught in a murder investigation. If you’re looking for more dysfunctional family shows, Schitt's Creek is a great TV series to dive into thanks to the rich main characters being so detached from reality. Some of the other notable movies like Arrested Development and series to watch if you like Arrested Development include BoJack Horseman, Peep Show, and Running Wilde.  

Which shows and movies are the best for Arrested Development fans? Vote up the ones you would recommend to other fans, and be sure to check out the titles you haven’t seen yet.  

With more than 40 million people visiting Ranker every month, we are able to offer you data-driven recommendations based on voting across thousands of film & TV polls. 

  • Fleabag
    Photo: Fleabag
    1
    20 votes

    Fleabag

    Fleabag, a dark comedy that has garnered numerous accolades including six Emmy Awards, offers a refreshingly honest portrayal of a complex and flawed protagonist. The show's creator, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, masterfully plays the lead role of Fleabag, a young woman navigating the challenges of modern life in London while grappling with grief and self-discovery. The series is lauded for its sharp wit, engaging dialogue, and dynamic performances from its ensemble cast, which includes Sian Clifford as Claire, Fleabag's high-strung sister, and Olivia Colman as their passive-aggressive stepmother. Fleabag's unique blend of humor and raw emotion provides a compelling exploration of vulnerability and resilience, leaving audiences both entertained and deeply moved.
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  • It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia
    Photo: FX
    2
    47 votes

    It's Always Sunny In Philadelphia

    Set against the backdrop of a run-down Philadelphia bar, this dark comedy series offers a refreshingly honest portrayal of flawed characters navigating their dysfunctional lives. With its talented ensemble cast, including Charlie Kelly (Charlie Day), Dennis Reynolds (Glenn Howerton), and Dee Reynolds (Kaitlin Olson), the show masterfully balances humor and heart. Over the course of its impressively long run, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia has garnered critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. Despite its lack of major awards recognition, the series continues to push boundaries with its unapologetically bold narrative, solidifying its status as a cult classic in the realm of television comedy.
  • The Office
    Photo: NBC
    3
    65 votes

    The Office

    Workers plod along at Dunder Mifflin's paper-supply company.
  • Community
    Photo: Sony Pictures Television
    4
    64 votes

    Community

    At the heart of the quirky, yet endearing comedy lies a diverse group of misfits, navigating their way through the unpredictable world of Greendale Community College. With an ensemble cast that includes the likes of Jeff Winger (Joel McHale) and Britta Perry (Gillian Jacobs), the show explores the intricacies of human connection and personal growth, wrapped in a cleverly written comedic package. Garnering critical acclaim and a devoted fan base, the series has been nominated for numerous awards, including Primetime Emmy Awards. From paintball battles to alternate realities, Community delivers an offbeat charm that resonates with audiences who appreciate its wit and warmth.
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  • Schitt's Creek
    Photo: CBC
    5
    49 votes

    Schitt's Creek

    In a small town with an unforgettable name, a once-wealthy family finds themselves stripped of their fortune and forced to navigate the unfamiliar territory of humble living. Schitt's Creek, a comedic gem, has garnered critical acclaim and multiple awards including Emmys and Golden Globes. Viewers follow the journey of Johnny Rose (Eugene Levy), Moira Rose (Catherine O'Hara), and their adult children, David (Daniel Levy) and Alexis (Annie Murphy), as they adapt to their new reality. Alongside quirky townsfolk, the Roses learn valuable lessons about love, family, and self-discovery, making this show a heartwarming and humorous experience.
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  • Parks And Recreation
    Photo: NBC
    6
    37 votes

    Parks And Recreation

    In a charming small-town setting, Parks and Recreation brings together an ensemble cast of quirky characters who make up the local government's Parks Department. Led by the relentlessly optimistic Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler), this mockumentary-style comedy series delves into the daily workings of the fictional town of Pawnee, Indiana. Throughout its seven-season run, the show garnered numerous awards and nominations, including a Golden Globe win for Poehler. With memorable performances from Nick Offerman as Ron Swanson and Aubrey Plaza as April Ludgate, Parks and Recreation finds humor in the mundane while also exploring deeper themes of friendship, community, and personal growth.
  • 30 Rock
    Photo: 30 Rock / NBCUniversal Television
    7
    23 votes

    30 Rock

    Venturing into the quirky, behind-the-scenes world of a sketch comedy show, 30 Rock delivers a humorous take on the inner workings of television production. With its ensemble cast led by Tina Fey, the show's creator and star, viewers are treated to a brilliant balance of workplace antics and character-driven storylines. Alec Baldwin's portrayal of network executive Jack Donaghy earned him two Emmy Awards, showcasing the remarkable chemistry between the lead actors. Over its seven-season run, 30 Rock garnered critical acclaim for its clever writing, memorable guest appearances, and unapologetic satire of the entertainment industry.
  • Veep
    Photo: Veep
    8
    24 votes

    Veep

    In the realm of political satire, few shows have managed to strike the perfect balance between humor and biting commentary quite like this award-winning comedy. Veep chronicles the tumultuous journey of Selina Meyer (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) as she navigates the treacherous waters of American politics, first as Vice President and later ascending to the highest office in the land. With razor-sharp wit and a talented ensemble cast, the series earned a plethora of accolades including multiple Emmy Awards for its unapologetic portrayal of the absurdity inherent in the world of politics. Masterfully blending fictional scenarios with real-life political events, Veep offers an insightful, yet hilarious, look into the inner workings of Washington D.C.
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  • Lady Dynamite
    Photo: Lady Dynamite
    9
    14 votes

    Lady Dynamite

    Lady Dynamite is a metafictional comedy series that stars comedian Maria Bamford, playing a fictionalized version of herself. The show looks into the complications of her life, including her career in stand-up comedy and her struggles with bipolar disorder. The show is known for its surreal humor, breaking the fourth wall, and nonlinear storytelling that jumps through various periods of Maria's life. It addresses mental health issues with a combination of irreverence and empathy. The show features guest appearances from a mix of comedians and actors like Patton Oswalt, Jenny Slate, and Fred Melamed.
  • Seinfeld
    Photo: NBC
    10
    15 votes

    Seinfeld

    A quintessential sitcom, Seinfeld explores the amusingly mundane lives of four eccentric New Yorkers navigating through a world filled with unpredictable social encounters. The show features Jerry Seinfeld as a fictionalized version of himself, while George Costanza (Jason Alexander), Elaine Benes (Julia Louis-Dreyfus), and Cosmo Kramer (Michael Richards) round out the core ensemble. With its innovative storytelling techniques, relatable humor, and memorable catchphrases, Seinfeld has garnered numerous accolades, including ten Primetime Emmy Awards. Although the series concluded in 1998, its timeless wit and unparalleled charm continue to resonate with audiences, solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon.
  • Brooklyn Nine-Nine
    Photo: Brooklyn Nine-Nine
    11
    29 votes

    Brooklyn Nine-Nine

    An offbeat police squad must get its act together to impress its precinct's new captain.
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  • What We Do In The Shadows
    Photo: FX
    12
    29 votes

    What We Do In The Shadows

    Delving into the realm of the supernatural with a comedic twist, What We Do in the Shadows offers viewers an amusing look at the lives of four vampire roommates navigating the modern world. This mockumentary-style series, based on the 2014 film by Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, has garnered critical acclaim and multiple award nominations for its witty writing and engaging performances. The eccentric ensemble, led by Nandor (Kayvan Novak), Laszlo (Matt Berry), Nadja (Natasia Demetriou), and Colin Robinson (Mark Proksch), brings to life the peculiarities of immortal beings attempting to blend into contemporary society, resulting in countless laugh-out-loud moments and memorable character interactions.
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  • Archer
    Photo: Archer
    13
    18 votes

    Archer

    In a world of espionage and danger, the animated series Archer brings a refreshing dose of comedy and wit to the realm of secret agents. The show has earned numerous accolades, including three Primetime Emmy Awards, for its sharp humor and unique visual style. Wrapped in the cloak of a spy thriller, viewers follow the misadventures of Sterling Archer (voiced by H. Jon Benjamin), a skilled but self-absorbed secret agent, as he navigates treacherous missions alongside his eccentric colleagues. While the series explores the high-stakes world of international espionage, it never loses sight of the hilarity that ensues in the face of adversity.
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  • Peep Show
    Photo: Peep Show
    14
    13 votes

    Peep Show

    Two dysfunctional friends share their lives while trying to adjust to the professional world.
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  • Curb Your Enthusiasm
    Photo: HBO
    15
    13 votes

    Curb Your Enthusiasm

    Larry David gets into predicaments at home, work and around town.
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  • The Good Place
    Photo: The Good Place
    16
    30 votes

    The Good Place

    In a celestial realm of moral quandaries and existential humor, The Good Place explores humanity's capacity for change through a group of diverse individuals navigating the afterlife. With its Emmy-nominated writing and stellar ensemble cast, including Kristen Bell as Eleanor Shellstrop and Ted Danson as Michael, the show cleverly delves into philosophical concepts while maintaining a witty and heartfelt tone. The unexpected twists and turns keep audiences engaged without sacrificing substance, as the characters grapple with ethical dilemmas and forge unlikely friendships. This thought-provoking comedy offers a refreshing take on the meaning of life, love, and personal growth.
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  • Nathan For You
    Photo: Nathan for You
    17
    10 votes

    Nathan For You

    Nathan For You is a docu-reality comedy television series that features comedian Nathan Fielder. In the show, Fielder uses his business degree and life experiences to help real small businesses turn a profit. However, his methods are far from traditional; his unconventional approach often involves creating outrageous marketing stunts guaranteed to bring in customers. The show has been praised for its particular blend of cringe comedy and social commentary, and it has received critical acclaim for its innovative format - and the performance of its star.
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  • Flight Of The Conchords
    Photo: Flight of the Conchords
    18
    5 votes

    Flight Of The Conchords

    In a clever concoction of music and comedy, Flight of the Conchords brings to life the endearing misadventures of two struggling musicians from New Zealand. Centered around the characters Bret McKenzie (Bret) and Jemaine Clement (Jemaine), the show combines original songs with hilarious situational comedy, earning numerous awards and nominations in its short, two-season run. As they navigate the challenges of friendship, love, and career in New York City, audiences are treated to a refreshingly offbeat and innovative humor that sets this series apart from others of its genre. With memorable guest appearances and a dedicated fanbase, Flight of the Conchords has secured its place as a cult classic in television history.
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  • Life In Pieces
    Photo: Life in Pieces
    19
    5 votes

    Life In Pieces

    Life in Pieces, which premiered on September 21, 2015, is a heartwarming comedy series that explores the lives of the Short family. Each episode is told through four short stories, focusing on different members of the family. The ensemble cast includes notable actors such as Colin Hanks, Betsy Brandt, and Dianne Wiest. The show's unique storytelling format offers a fresh perspective on the ups and downs of family life, from parenting and relationships to aging and career challenges. Life in Pieces humorously captures the chaos and joy of being part of a big family, making it a relatable watch for audiences.
  • How I Met Your Mother
    Photo: CBS
    20
    21 votes

    How I Met Your Mother

    In a refreshing take on the romantic comedy genre, How I Met Your Mother follows the journey of Ted Mosby (Josh Radnor) as he recounts to his children the convoluted tale of how he met their mother. This Emmy-winning sitcom cleverly utilizes a non-linear narrative, keeping viewers invested through nine seasons filled with laughter, heartache, and life lessons. The ensemble cast, including the charming Barney Stinson (Neil Patrick Harris) and the endearing couple Marshall Eriksen (Jason Segel) and Lily Aldrin (Alyson Hannigan), brings to life the relatable struggles of friendship, love, and career aspirations in New York City.
  • Modern Family
    Photo: ABC
    21
    18 votes

    Modern Family

    Modern Family, a multi-Emmy-Award-winning sitcom, brings humor and heart to the small screen as it chronicles the lives of Jay Pritchett (Ed O'Neill) and his diverse, extended family. With a talented ensemble cast featuring Sofia Vergara, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, and Julie Bowen, viewers are treated to a delightful mix of personalities navigating the complexities of contemporary family dynamics. The show's innovative mockumentary format provides a refreshing perspective on poignant themes, such as love, parenthood, and acceptance. Over the course of eleven seasons, Modern Family has skillfully balanced comedy and drama, capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide.
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  • Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt
    Photo: Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt
    22
    18 votes

    Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt

    Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, a quirky comedy series created by Tina Fey, follows the journey of Kimmy (Ellie Kemper) as she reclaims her life after being held captive in an underground bunker for 15 years. The show, known for its witty humor and colorful characters, has garnered critical acclaim and numerous award nominations, including 18 Primetime Emmy Award nods. Audiences are treated to Kimmy's endearing naivete and determination as she navigates the eccentricities of New York City, alongside her flamboyant roommate Titus Andromedon (Tituss Burgess) and their peculiar landlady Lillian Kaushtupper (Carol Kane). The series delves into themes of resilience, friendship, and self-discovery without sacrificing its lighthearted charm.
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  • Ryan Hansen Solves Crimes on Television
    Photo: Ryan Hansen Solves Crimes on Television
    23
    8 votes

    Ryan Hansen Solves Crimes on Television

    An LAPD task force partners actors with homicide detectives to help solve murders.
  • Rick And Morty
    Photo: Adult Swim
    24
    8 votes

    Rick And Morty

    A father suddenly appears at his adult daughter's doorstep, 20 years after disappearing.
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  • Running Wilde
    Photo: Metaweb (FB) / Public domain
    25
    5 votes

    Running Wilde

    A rich, immature playboy tries to win the heart of his childhood sweetheart.
  • Knives Out
    Photo: Knives Out
    26
    3 votes

    Knives Out

    In the whodunit thriller, Knives Out, celebrated detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) is mysteriously enlisted to investigate. Wealthy crime novelist Harlan Thrombey (Christopher Plummer) is found dead at his estate just after his 85th birthday. Every member of Harlan's dysfunctional family becomes a suspect in this intricate murder mystery. As Blanc sifts through a web of red herrings and self-serving lies, he uncovers more than the privileged family cares to admit. The film, a fresh take on the classic mystery genre, has been lauded with several award nominations for its sharp script and stellar ensemble cast.
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  • Family Guy
    Photo: Fox
    27
    9 votes

    Family Guy

    The adventures of an eccentric family living in New England.
  • Workaholics
    Photo: Workaholics
    28
    9 votes

    Workaholics

    Workaholics is a comedy series that skillfully balances the absurdity of office life with the hilarious antics of its main characters. The show revolves around three friends, Blake (Blake Anderson), Adam (Adam DeVine), and Anders (Anders Holm), who work together at a telemarketing company and share a house. Through their misadventures and comical situations, viewers are entertained by the trio's unconventional approach to both work and friendship. Garnering a dedicated fan base over its seven-season run, Workaholics has been praised for its witty writing and the chemistry between its lead actors.
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  • Last Week Tonight With John Oliver
    Photo: Last Week Tonight With John Oliver
    29
    9 votes

    Last Week Tonight With John Oliver

    Last Week Tonight with John Oliver is a thought-provoking, Emmy-award winning news satire program that takes a deep dive into current events and politics. With a blend of humor and incisive analysis, the show dissects timely issues through the lens of host John Oliver's witty commentary. Each episode features a well-researched, in-depth segment that sheds light on underreported or misunderstood topics, often resulting in real-world impact. The show's unique blend of comedy and journalism has garnered widespread acclaim, making it a must-watch for those seeking an entertaining and informative take on today's most pressing matters.
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  • Extras
    Photo: Extras
    30
    4 votes

    Extras

    Delving into the lives of struggling actors in the competitive world of Hollywood, Extras offers a refreshing take on the unglamorous side of fame. The show's protagonist, Andy Millman (Ricky Gervais), navigates the cutthroat industry alongside his loyal friend and fellow extra, Maggie Jacobs (Ashley Jensen). With its sharp wit and poignant moments, the series has garnered critical acclaim, including several Emmy and BAFTA nominations. The show's unique blend of humor and heartbreak paints a realistic picture of the challenges faced by those pursuing their dreams in the entertainment world, while providing thought-provoking commentary on the price of success.
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