What To Watch If You Love 'Young Sheldon'

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Updated May 31, 2024 40 items
Voting Rules
Vote up the films and television series that you know other fans of 'Young Sheldon' will love.

Looking for more shows like Young Sheldon? We’ve compiled this list of movies and TV shows similar to Young Sheldon, the CBS period sitcom featuring The Big Bang Theory's Sheldon Cooper growing up with his family in East Texas.

With lots of options, including The Big Bang Theory, a show with an adult version of Sheldon Cooper, and even movies like Little Man Tate, a film that follows a socially-awkward child prodigy, deciding what to watch after Young Sheldon will really just depend on your mood.

Vote up the best movies and shows like Young Sheldon, so other fans know what to watch next. Thanks to streaming services, like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, and Prime Video, you can start streaming these movies and shows right now.

  • The Big Bang Theory

    For fans of: comedy series from Chuck Lorre

    A free-spirited beauty moves in next door to two physicists.
  • 2
    33 votes

    Gifted

    For fans of: dramedy about a child prodigy

  • The Expanding Universe of Ashley Garcia

    For fans of: family comedies featuring a child prodigy

    The Expanding Universe of Ashley Garcia is a heartwarming coming-of-age comedy series that explores the life of a teenage genius. Ashley Garcia (Paulina Chávez) navigates her way through high school while also working as a robotics engineer for a prestigious research facility. This lighthearted show, co-created by Mario Lopez and Seth Kurland, emphasizes the importance of balancing professional aspirations with personal growth and relationships. With its relatable storyline and charming performances, the series has garnered positive reviews and a devoted fan base. The show's engaging narrative and well-rounded characters make it a delightful watch for audiences of all ages.
  • Fresh Off the Boat

    For fans of: comedy series featuring a family

    Set in the '90s, Fresh Off the Boat is a humorous yet heartfelt portrayal of an Asian-American family navigating their way through the cultural complexities of suburban America. The show centers around the Huang family, with Eddie (Hudson Yang) as the hip-hop loving eldest son, and his parents Louis (Randall Park) and Jessica (Constance Wu), who are determined to maintain their Taiwanese roots while adapting to their new environment. With its engaging storyline and authentic representation, the sitcom has garnered praise from both critics and viewers alike, earning numerous award nominations throughout its six-season run. Fresh Off the Boat offers a delightful glimpse into the everyday challenges and triumphs of an immigrant family striving to find a balance between two distinct cultures.
  • Malcolm in the Middle

    For fans of: comedy series featuring a child prodigy

    In this unconventional family sitcom, viewers are invited to explore the chaotic yet endearing lives of a middle-class clan led by the bumbling but well-intentioned Hal (Bryan Cranston) and his fiercely determined wife, Lois (Jane Kaczmarek). Centered around their gifted and perpetually exasperated son, Malcolm (Frankie Muniz), the series delves into the everyday challenges faced by the family as they navigate sibling rivalries, school struggles, and the occasional unexpected crisis. Garnering numerous awards and nominations throughout its seven-season run, Malcolm in the Middle has earned its place as a beloved and influential staple in television history, thanks to its sharp wit, strong ensemble cast, and refreshingly offbeat approach to storytelling.
  • Mom
    6
    6 votes

    For fans of: comedy series from Chuck Lorre

    Bonnie, a recovering alcoholic, and her friends help each other overcome their past mistakes.
  • American Housewife
    7
    8 votes

    American Housewife

    For fans of: comedy series featuring a family

    American Housewife, a refreshingly relatable sitcom, centers around the life of Katie Otto (Katy Mixon), a confident and unapologetic mother of three. Set in the picture-perfect town of Westport, Connecticut, the show deftly tackles the daily challenges of raising a family while maintaining a sense of humor. The talented ensemble cast, including Diedrich Bader as Greg Otto and Meg Donnelly as Taylor Otto, brings an undeniable charm to the screen. With its clever writing and engaging storylines, American Housewife has earned critical acclaim, garnering praise for its authentic portrayal of modern-day parenting and suburban life.
  • The Goldbergs

    For fans of: family-friendly comedy series set in the '80s

    In the 1980s, a child uses a video camera to document his crazy family's life.
  • United States of Al

    For fans of: comedy series from Chuck Lorre

    United States of Al is a comedy series that explores the friendship between Riley (Parker Young), a Marine combat veteran struggling to readjust to civilian life in Ohio, and Al (Adhir Kalyan), an Afghan interpreter who served with his unit and has just arrived to start a new life in America. The show takes on themes of cultural assimilation, PTSD, and the bonds forged in wartime. It emphasizes the humor and challenges that come with Al's experience adapting to American customs while forming a close bond with Riley's family. The series highlights the real-world issues faced by veterans and immigrants with a comedic touch.
  • The Middle
    10
    7 votes

    For fans of: comedy series featuring families

    Set in the heart of the fictional town of Orson, Indiana, The Middle is a refreshingly genuine portrayal of a middle-class American family. This comedy series, spanning nine seasons, has garnered multiple award nominations for its brilliant ensemble cast and razor-sharp writing. Patricia Heaton shines as Frankie Heck, a devoted yet frazzled mother juggling work, family, and her own aspirations. Alongside her, Neil Flynn plays Mike Heck, the stoic but loving father. The show masterfully navigates through the ups and downs of raising three uniquely quirky children: Axl (Charlie McDermott), Sue (Eden Sher), and Brick (Atticus Shaffer). With its blend of relatable humor and heartwarming moments, The Middle has cemented its place as a beloved classic in the realm of modern television.
  • Bob Hearts Abishola

    For fans of: comedy series from Chuck Lorre

    A businessman falls for his cardiac nurse while recovering from a heart attack.
  • Mike & Molly
    12
    21 votes

    For fans of: comedy series from Chuck Lorre

    Set against a charming Chicago backdrop, the sitcom Mike & Molly is a heartwarming exploration of love and laughter. The dynamic duo at the center of the show, Mike Biggs (Billy Gardell) and Molly Flynn (Melissa McCarthy), find themselves navigating the complexities of life, relationships, and family in their pursuit of happiness. With a strong supporting cast including characters like Carl McMillan (Reno Wilson) and Victoria Flynn (Katy Mixon), the series has garnered critical acclaim, earning multiple Emmy nominations and a win for its leading lady, Melissa McCarthy. Known for its witty humor and relatable storylines, Mike & Molly resonates with audiences as an endearing portrayal of modern love.
  • 13
    12 votes

    The Other Two

    For fans of: comedy series about a child prodigy

    In a refreshing take on the world of fame and family dynamics, The Other Two masterfully weaves together humor and heart. Centering around aspiring actor Cary (Drew Tarver) and his sister Brooke (Heléne Yorke), the show explores their lives as they navigate the sudden rise to stardom of their younger brother, Chase (Case Walker). The series, which has garnered critical acclaim and a Writer's Guild of America nomination, delves into the complexities of sibling relationships and personal ambitions, all while maintaining a clever balance between satire and genuine emotion. With its engaging storylines and authentic performances, The Other Two is a must-watch for those seeking a fresh perspective on the entertainment industry.
  • 14
    8 votes

    Little Man Tate

    For fans of: dramedy about a child prodigy

    Fred Tate (Adam Hann-Byrd) is a 7-year-old with a genius IQ. Single mother Dede (Jodie Foster) worries Fred might have an easier time fitting in around other child prodigies. Despite reservations, she allows Fred to go to a smart summer camp run by child psychologist Jane Grierson (Dianne Wiest), a former child prodigy. Fred's studies advance, but, as he prepares for a national TV competition, he is torn between following through with his advanced education or building a normal life.
  • Two and a Half Men

    For fans of: comedy series from Chuck Lorre

    The social interactions of a group of misfits, including a divorcee and an Internet billionaire.
  • B Positive
    16
    13 votes

    For fans of: comedy series from Chuck Lorre

    B Positive centers on Drew (Thomas Middleditch), a therapist and newly divorced dad who needs a kidney donor. His life takes an unexpected turn when Gina (Annaleigh Ashford), a rough-around-the-edges woman from his past, offers one of hers. The show features themes of health, second chances, and the unlikely bonds that form when facing life's obstacles. The show creators, Chuck Lorre and Marco Pennette combine humor with heartfelt moments. B Positive spotlights the emotional rollercoaster of organ donation and the connections that can save us - in more ways than one.
  • 17
    2 votes

    For fans of: family comedy about a child prodigy

    Matilda (Mara Wilson) is a precocious child, born into an uncaring family. Her crass car-dealer father (Danny DeVito) and neglectful mother (Rhea Perlman) fail to recognize her genius intellect, leaving Matilda starved for knowledge and affection. At school, she faces the tyrannical headmistress Miss Trunchbull (Pam Ferris), whose reign of terror is challenged by Matilda's burgeoning telekinetic powers. This 1996 film, directed by Danny DeVito, is a blend of comedy, drama, and fantasy that won acclaim for its engaging storytelling and strong performances. It explores themes of resilience, self-empowerment, and the power of kindness in an unjust world.
  • The Kominsky Method

    For fans of: comedy series from Chuck Lorre

    The Kominsky Method, a dramedy series graced with multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations, follows the lives of two aging friends navigating the challenges of their twilight years. The central duo, acting coach Sandy Kominsky (Michael Douglas) and his agent/best friend Norman Newlander (Alan Arkin), deliver compelling performances infused with humor and heart. Throughout the show's three-season run, viewers are treated to an exploration of personal growth, loss, and the complexities of relationships, all while maintaining a witty and insightful tone. With its honest portrayal of aging and poignant storytelling, The Kominsky Method proves that life's journey remains vibrant in every stage.
  • For fans of: drama about a child prodigy

    After he beats his dad (Joe Mantegna) in a chess match, Josh Waitzkin (Max Pomeranc), a 7-year-old, gets noticed for his talent. He becomes interested in speed chess at the park and learns the game from a hustler named Vinnie (Laurence Fishburne). However, Josh's parents invest in the services of Bruce (Ben Kingsley), a famous coach who has very different practices. Between Bruce's methods and the stress of the competitions, Josh learns that even a chess prodigy cannot make all the right moves.
  • Akeelah and the Bee

    For fans of: f about a child prodigy

    Akeelah and the Bee is a drama film centered around an eleven-year-old girl, Akeelah Anderson (Keke Palmer), from South Los Angeles. Living in a neighborhood where opportunities are scarce, she unexpectedly discovers her extraordinary talent for spelling. Guided by an uncompromising yet compassionate coach, Dr. Joshua Larabee (Laurence Fishburne), Akeelah participates in a national spelling bee competition. Angela Bassett plays the role of Akeelah's supportive mother, Tanya. Despite daunting obstacles and intense pressure, Akeelah strives to outshine her competitors and redefine her destiny. The movie won the Black Reel Award for Best Actress among other accolades.
  • The Conners
    21
    3 votes

    For fans of: comedy series featuring a family

    The Conners grapple with parenthood, dating, financial pressures and aging in Lanford.
  • Disjointed
    22
    3 votes

    For fans of: comedy series from Chuck Lorre

    Disjointed is a cannabis-centric sitcom that follows Ruth Whitefeather Feldman (Kathy Bates), a lifelong advocate for marijuana legalization who finally lives out her dream of running a Los Angeles cannabis dispensary. The show features the highs and lows of her eccentric staff and the customers they serve. The themes include the generational divide in attitudes toward marijuana, the pursuit of happiness, and the challenges of small business ownership. While Disjointed delivers its humor through a haze of stoner jokes and psychedelic cutaway sequences, it also touches on more serious issues such as PTSD and the legal ramifications surrounding cannabis. Despite its timely subject matter and Bates' star power, the show was not recognized with major awards and was canceled after one season.
  • Bob's Burgers
    23
    6 votes

    For fans of: comedy series featuring a family

    A third-generation restaurateur runs a burger joint with his wife and their three kids.
  • Modern Family
    24
    4 votes

    For fans of: comedy series featuring a 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.
  • The Wonder Years

    For fans of: dramedy series about families set in the past

    The Wonder Years, a nostalgic coming-of-age dramedy, invites audiences to revisit the trials and triumphs of adolescence through the eyes of Kevin Arnold (Fred Savage). Set against a backdrop of late-60s suburban America, the show's enduring charm lies in its relatable themes of friendship, family, and first love. Critics have lauded both Savage's authentic portrayal and the series' poignant storytelling, leading to multiple Emmy nominations and wins. With a memorable soundtrack that perfectly captures the era, The Wonder Years continues to resonate with viewers of all ages, offering a heartfelt glimpse into the bittersweet beauty of growing up.
  • Black-ish
    26
    7 votes

    For fans of: comedy series featuring a family

    A black husband and father tries to establish a sense of cultural identity for his family.
  • Schooled
    27
    2 votes

    For fans of: comedy series set in the past

    John Glascott leads a faculty of teachers with wildly different views on how to mentor students.
  • Atypical
    28
    2 votes

    Atypical

    For fans of: comedy series about unusual families

    Atypical is a heartfelt dramedy that explores the life of Sam Gardner (Keir Gilchrist), a teenager on the autism spectrum. The show delves into themes of self-discovery, family dynamics, and the challenges faced by individuals with autism, all while maintaining a delicate balance between humor and emotion. Garnering critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, Atypical's ensemble cast, including Jennifer Jason Leigh as Sam's devoted mother and Michael Rapaport as his well-meaning father, delivers powerful performances that resonate with viewers. As the series unfolds, it invites audiences to celebrate the beauty in life's quirks and imperfections.
  • 29
    3 votes

    For fans of: drama about a child prodigy

    A musically gifted orphan, Evan (Freddie Highmore), runs away from his orphanage and searches New York City for his birth parents. On his journey, he's taken under the wing of the Wizard (Robin Williams), a homeless man who lives in an abandoned theater. After discovering his talent, the Wizard gives Evan the name "August Rush" and devises a plan to profit from his talent. Little does Evan know that his parents, Lyla (Keri Russell) and Louis (Jonathan Rhys Meyers), are searching for him too.
  • Mixed-ish
    30
    5 votes

    For fans of: comedy series featuring a family

    Mixed-ish, a thought-provoking and endearing spinoff of the acclaimed Black-ish, delves into the complexities of growing up as a biracial child in the 1980s. The show's heartwarming narrative artfully captures the struggles and triumphs of young Rainbow Johnson, played by Arica Himmel, as she navigates her identity in a predominantly white suburban community. With a vibrant ensemble cast including Tika Sumpter and Mark-Paul Gosselaar as Rainbow's parents, Mixed-ish skillfully blends humor with poignant social commentary, earning critical acclaim and multiple award nominations. This insightful comedy series is a must-watch for those seeking to explore the intricacies of race, family, and self-discovery.