If you’ve enjoyed Shrinking on Apple TV+, a heartfelt and humorous look at a therapist struggling with grief while helping others, you’re likely looking for more shows with that perfect blend of wit, dark humor, and emotional depth.
From the creators Bill Lawrence, Jason Segel, and Brett Goldstein, Shrinking explores the life of Jimmy Laird, a widowed therapist determined to be honest with his patients, even if it causes chaos around him. Here are five other shows that capture similar themes of resilience, humor, and personal growth.
Top 5 shows like Shrinking you should watch
1. Beef
Beef is a unique comedy-drama series on Netflix, created by Korean-American director Lee Sung Jin. Starring Steven Yeun and Ali Wong, the show centers on Danny Cho and Amy Lau, two strangers whose lives are disrupted by a road rage incident that quickly escalates into an obsessive rivalry.
Their clash is intense and personal, resulting in plenty of laughs and thought-provoking moments. With performances that earned critical praise and multiple Emmy awards, Beef dives into themes of anger, rivalry, and healing.
Rotten tomatoes rating: 98% (critics) / 86% (audience)
2. Bad Monkey
Bad Monkey, a black comedy crime drama, combines mystery and humor. Based on Carl Hiaasen’s novel, it follows Andrew Yancy, a former detective turned restaurant inspector in Florida, who stumbles upon a severed arm.
This discovery throws him into a world of corruption affecting the beautiful landscapes of Florida and the Bahamas. Vince Vaughn’s witty, fast-talking charm adds to the show’s appeal.
Rotten tomatoes rating: 84% (critics) / 78% (audience)
3. After Life
Created by Ricky Gervais, After Life on Netflix tells the story of Tony Johnson, a newspaper writer in a small town who is devastated by the death of his wife. Instead of moving on, he decides to speak his mind, no matter who it hurts.
Through this blunt approach to life, Tony starts finding reasons to care about others again. After Life mixes dark humor with heartfelt moments, giving a touching view of grief and healing.
Rotten tomatoes rating: 75% (critics) / 91% (audience)
4. Fleabag
Phoebe Waller-Bridge created and starred in Fleabag, a British comedy-drama that follows the chaotic, often humorous life of a young woman navigating life in London.
With a unique format that breaks the fourth wall, Waller-Bridge’s character speaks directly to viewers, sharing her internal thoughts and struggles with relationships and personal trauma. This candid, witty approach has earned the show praise and numerous awards.
Rotten tomatoes rating: 100% (critics) / 91% (audience)
5. Ted Lasso
Ted Lasso combines sports with comedy-drama in a story about an American football coach (played by Jason Sudeikis) hired to lead an English soccer team, despite knowing little about soccer.
His optimism and kindness quickly win over players and fans alike. With themes of perseverance and positivity, Ted Lasso has received critical acclaim for its charming approach to mental health, friendship, and leadership.
Rotten tomatoes rating: 95% (critics) / 91% (audience)
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These shows capture the emotional depth, wit, and resilience that fans of Shrinking enjoy. Each one offers its own unique blend of dark humor and introspection, adding new dimensions to familiar themes of grief, healing, and human connection.
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