10 Shows & Movies Like Broad City (2014)

Description: Like 'Broad City', '30 Rock' is a female-led comedy that blends absurd humor with sharp social commentary. Both shows feature strong, quirky female protagonists navigating the challenges of work and personal life in a big city (New York). The fast-paced, joke-heavy writing style is similar, and both shows have a surreal, exaggerated take on reality.

Fact: Tina Fey based the character of Liz Lemon on herself. The show was initially met with low ratings but gained popularity through critical acclaim and awards. Alec Baldwin's role as Jack Donaghy revitalized his career.

Description: This show shares 'Broad City's' celebration of female friendship and its blend of heartfelt moments with outrageous comedy. Both shows feature optimistic, determined female leads (Leslie Knope and Abbi/Ilana) who face life's challenges with humor and resilience. The mockumentary style gives it a similar intimate, conversational feel.

Fact: The character of Ron Swanson was inspired by a real person the creators knew. The show's tone significantly changed after season 1 to be more positive. Amy Poehler was pregnant during season 2, which was written into the show.

Description: This ensemble comedy shares 'Broad City's' focus on quirky characters and their unconventional friendships. Both shows balance heartfelt moments with absurd humor, and feature strong female leads (Jess and Abbi/Ilana) who are unapologetically themselves. The New York vs. LA setting provides similar urban comedy material.

Fact: Zooey Deschanel was pregnant twice during filming, requiring creative costuming. The show was originally titled 'Chicks and Dicks'. Jake Johnson and Hannah Simone knew each other from college before being cast.

Description: Like 'Broad City', this is a New York-set comedy about a flawed but lovable woman navigating career, relationships, and adulthood. Both shows blend romantic comedy elements with feminist themes and raunchy humor. The lead characters share a similar self-absorbed yet endearing quality.

Fact: Mindy Kaling wrote most of the episodes herself. The show was originally on Fox before moving to Hulu. Chris Messina's character Danny wasn't supposed to be a love interest initially.

Description: While more dramatic than 'Broad City', 'Insecure' similarly explores female friendship and the challenges of young adulthood with humor and authenticity. Both shows offer a fresh, female perspective on modern relationships and career struggles, with a distinct visual style and great music choices.

Fact: Issa Rae first gained fame through her YouTube series 'Awkward Black Girl'. The show features almost exclusively Black directors. Many scenes are filmed in real Los Angeles locations rather than sets.

Description: This dark comedy shares 'Broad City's' millennial humor and New York setting, though with a more satirical edge. Both shows feature self-absorbed but compelling female leads and explore themes of identity and purpose in young adulthood. The mystery element adds a unique twist to similar character dynamics.

Fact: Originally aired on TBS before moving to HBO Max. The show's tone shifts dramatically from comedy to thriller. John Early's character was originally written as straight.

Description: This anthology series shares 'Broad City's' New York setting and its focus on diverse, eccentric characters. Both shows offer a slice-of-life look at urban living with humor and heart. The Guy (the weed dealer) connects stories much like Abbi and Ilana connect with various NYC characters.

Fact: Began as a web series before HBO picked it up. Most episodes feature non-professional actors. The show's creator Ben Sinclair plays The Guy.

Description: This show shares 'Broad City's' sharp satire of millennial culture and the entertainment industry. Both feature ambitious but flawed protagonists navigating absurd situations with humor. The New York setting and fast-paced comedy style are similar, though 'The Other Two' focuses more on fame culture.

Fact: Created by former 'SNL' writers. Drew Tarver and Heléne Yorke are both Broadway veterans. The show was canceled after 3 seasons but may continue elsewhere.

Description: While more male-focused, 'Workaholics' shares 'Broad City's' raunchy humor and celebration of slacker culture. Both shows feature close-knit friend groups getting into absurd situations, with a similar balance of surreal comedy and heartfelt moments. The workplace setting provides similar comedic material.

Fact: The main cast met through improv comedy. Many episodes are based on the actors' real experiences. The show helped launch the careers of several comedy writers.

Description: Like 'Broad City', 'Shrill' centers on a young woman navigating life, love, and career while challenging societal expectations. Both shows blend comedy with feminist themes and feature body-positive messaging. The protagonist's journey to self-acceptance mirrors Abbi and Ilana's character arcs.

Fact: Based on Lindy West's memoir. Aidy Bryant co-wrote many episodes. The show was canceled after 3 seasons despite critical acclaim.