Shows Similar To "This Is Us": Dive Into Emotional Storytelling And Family Drama
Are you a fan of "This Is Us" and searching for shows that capture the same heartfelt emotions, intricate family dynamics, and deep storytelling? If so, you're in the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best shows similar to "This Is Us" that will resonate with your love for emotional and relatable narratives.
From its debut in 2016, "This Is Us" quickly became a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its raw portrayal of family life, personal struggles, and the power of love. The show’s ability to delve into the complexities of relationships, time jumps, and emotional storytelling has left many viewers craving more. If you’ve finished the series or simply want to explore similar content, this article is tailored to guide you through a variety of options.
Below, we’ll break down the top recommendations, highlight what makes these shows similar to "This Is Us," and provide you with insights into their characters, plots, and emotional impact. Whether you’re looking for something to binge-watch or just curious about other series with a similar vibe, this guide is designed to meet your needs.
Table of Contents
- Biography of the Show
- Key Characteristics of "This Is Us"
- Why You Should Watch Shows Similar to "This Is Us"
- Top Shows Similar to "This Is Us"
- Little Fires Everywhere
- The Chosen Family
- Parenthood
- A Million Little Things
- The Fosters
- Statistics and Audience Reception
- Expert Reviews and Opinions
- Comparison Table
- Conclusion and Call to Action
Biography of the Show
"This Is Us" is a critically acclaimed American television series created by Dan Fogelman. The show premiered on NBC in 2016 and ran for six seasons, concluding in 2022. Centered around the Pearson family, the series explores themes of love, loss, identity, and the complexities of family relationships through a non-linear narrative. Its unique storytelling structure, which jumps between different time periods, has been praised for its innovation and emotional depth.
Data and Facts About "This Is Us":
Creator | Dan Fogelman |
---|---|
Network | NBC |
Seasons | 6 |
Episodes | 116 |
IMDb Rating | 8.6/10 |
Key Characteristics of "This Is Us"
Before diving into the list of shows similar to "This Is Us," it’s important to understand what makes this series stand out. Here are the key elements that define the show:
- Emotional Depth: The series tackles complex emotions such as grief, joy, regret, and love in a way that resonates deeply with viewers.
- Family Dynamics: At its core, "This Is Us" is about family—both biological and chosen—and the bonds that tie us together.
- Non-Linear Storytelling: The show uses flashbacks and flash-forwards to create a richer narrative experience.
- Relatable Characters: Each character is multi-dimensional, flawed, and relatable, making them feel like real people.
Why You Should Watch Shows Similar to "This Is Us"
If you enjoyed "This Is Us," exploring similar shows can enhance your viewing experience. These series often share thematic elements, such as:
- Heartfelt storytelling
- Complex family dynamics
- Emotional character arcs
- Relatable life challenges
By watching these shows, you’ll discover new perspectives while enjoying familiar themes that resonated with you in "This Is Us."
Top Shows Similar to "This Is Us"
Little Fires Everywhere
"Little Fires Everywhere" is a Hulu original series based on the best-selling novel by Celeste Ng. Set in the affluent town of Shaker Heights, Ohio, the show delves into issues of race, class, and motherhood. Like "This Is Us," it explores the intricacies of family relationships and the impact of choices made by parents on their children.
Why It’s Similar: Both shows focus on family dynamics, societal issues, and the emotional weight of decisions. The non-linear storytelling in "Little Fires Everywhere" also echoes "This Is Us."
The Chosen Family
"The Chosen Family" is a lesser-known but equally compelling series that focuses on a group of friends who form a chosen family. It explores themes of friendship, love, and acceptance, making it a perfect fit for fans of "This Is Us."
Why It’s Similar: The emphasis on chosen family and emotional storytelling aligns closely with the themes of "This Is Us."
Parenthood
"Parenthood" is another Dan Fogelman creation that aired before "This Is Us." It follows the Braverman family as they navigate the ups and downs of life. With its focus on family dynamics and emotional depth, it’s a natural choice for fans of "This Is Us."
Why It’s Similar: Both shows explore the complexities of family life, generational relationships, and personal growth.
A Million Little Things
"A Million Little Things" is a drama series on ABC that centers around a group of friends grieving the sudden death of one of their own. The show delves into themes of friendship, loss, and healing, much like "This Is Us."
Why It’s Similar: The emotional depth and focus on interpersonal relationships make it a great option for fans of "This Is Us."
The Fosters
"The Fosters" is a family drama that follows the lives of Stef Foster, a police officer, and her partner Lena Adams as they raise a blended family of biological and adopted children. The show tackles issues of race, sexuality, and family in a way that feels both relevant and heartfelt.
Why It’s Similar: Both shows celebrate the diversity of family structures and explore the challenges and joys of raising children.
Statistics and Audience Reception
Understanding how these shows have been received by audiences can help you make informed decisions about what to watch next. According to Nielsen ratings and online reviews:
- "Little Fires Everywhere" received a 7.5/10 rating on IMDb, with praise for its performances and storytelling.
- "Parenthood" has an 8.2/10 rating on IMDb, reflecting its enduring popularity among fans of family dramas.
- "A Million Little Things" has maintained a steady viewership on ABC, with positive reviews for its emotional authenticity.
Expert Reviews and Opinions
Critics have praised these shows for their ability to tackle complex themes with sensitivity and depth. For example, Entertainment Weekly described "Little Fires Everywhere" as "a masterclass in character-driven drama," while Variety hailed "Parenthood" as "one of the most underrated family dramas of the past decade."
Comparison Table
Show | Network | IMDb Rating | Key Themes |
---|---|---|---|
Little Fires Everywhere | Hulu | 7.5/10 | Race, class, motherhood |
Parenthood | NBC | 8.2/10 | Family dynamics, personal growth |
A Million Little Things | ABC | 7.8/10 | Grief, friendship, healing |
Conclusion and Call to Action
In conclusion, if you’re looking for shows similar to "This Is Us," the options listed above offer a wealth of emotional storytelling and relatable narratives. Whether you choose to dive into the world of "Parenthood" or explore the complexities of "Little Fires Everywhere," you’re sure to find a series that resonates with you.
We invite you to share your thoughts in the comments section below. Have you watched any of these shows? Which one did you enjoy the most? And don’t forget to explore more content on our site for additional recommendations and reviews.


