10 Shows & Movies Like Leverage (2008)

Description: Like 'Leverage', this British series focuses on a team of con artists executing elaborate scams against corrupt targets, with a strong emphasis on clever twists and stylish execution.

Fact: Each episode's con was carefully researched to be plausible. The show was originally conceived as a British version of 'The Sting'. Several cast members appeared in both 'Hustle' and 'Leverage'.

Description: Like 'Leverage', combines crime-solving with humor and a focus on team dynamics, featuring a protagonist who uses unconventional skills (in this case, fake psychic abilities) to solve cases.

Fact: The pineapple in each episode was an inside joke among the cast. James Roday Rodriguez ad-libbed many of Shawn's pop culture references. The theme song was recorded in one take.

Description: Shares 'Leverage's' theme of a skilled team using their unique talents to help others while navigating personal vendettas. Both shows mix action, humor, and clever problem-solving.

Fact: Bruce Campbell's character was originally intended to appear in only a few episodes. The show's narration style was inspired by film noir. Many of the spy techniques shown are based on real CIA methods.

Description: Parallels 'Leverage' in featuring a charming, unconventional protagonist using unorthodox methods to solve crimes and bring justice, often targeting powerful corrupt figures.

Fact: Simon Baker did most of his character's magic tricks himself. The Red John storyline was inspired by real serial killers. The show was filmed on location in California to maintain authenticity.

Description: Similar to 'Leverage' in its focus on reading people and uncovering hidden truths, though more scientifically grounded in its approach to deception detection.

Fact: The show was based on Dr. Paul Ekman's real research. Tim Roth insisted on keeping his natural British accent. Many cases were inspired by real-world events.

Description: Similar to 'Leverage' in its focus on a team of con artists and law enforcement working together to solve crimes, blending heist elements with procedural drama. Both shows feature charismatic leads and intricate plots.

Fact: The show was inspired by real-life white-collar crimes. Matt Bomer, who plays Neal Caffrey, did many of his own stunts. The series finale was left open-ended for potential future stories.

Description: While more legal-focused, it shares 'Leverage's' themes of clever underdogs outsmarting powerful opponents, with sharp dialogue and complex character relationships.

Fact: Meghan Markle's audition was her first major acting role. Many courtroom scenes are filmed in a real Toronto courthouse. The show's creator was inspired by his father's legal career.

Description: Shares 'Leverage's' premise of helping ordinary people against powerful adversaries, blending action, tech-savvy solutions, and moral ambiguity about justice.

Fact: The show predicted many surveillance technologies before they became mainstream. Jim Caviezel performed most of his own stunts. The machine's perspective shots were inspired by video games.

Description: Shares 'Leverage's' structure of episodic missions within an overarching story, featuring a brilliant, morally ambiguous protagonist who helps take down criminals.

Fact: James Spader improvises many of Red's monologues. The show holds the record for most-watched premiere on NBC. Red's hat became so iconic it's displayed in the Smithsonian.

Description: Like 'Leverage', features a team of brilliant misfits using their unique skills to solve impossible problems, with a mix of high-stakes action and character-driven humor.

Fact: Based loosely on the life of real genius Walter O'Brien. The cast underwent tech training to make their performances authentic. Many solutions are based on actual scientific principles.