10 Shows & Movies Like Workaholics (2011)

Description: 'Arrested Development' and 'Workaholics' both feature a cast of deeply flawed characters who are constantly scheming and failing. Both shows rely on rapid-fire jokes, callbacks, and running gags, and both have a unique, almost surreal sense of humor. The dysfunctional family dynamic in 'Arrested Development' is similar to the dysfunctional coworker dynamic in 'Workaholics'.

Fact: The show was initially canceled after three seasons but was revived by Netflix due to fan demand. Many of the show's jokes are so subtle that they require multiple viewings to catch. The Bluth family's banana stand is a real location in Newport Beach, California.

Description: 'It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia' shares 'Workaholics'' irreverent humor and focus on a group of friends who are often their own worst enemies. Both shows feature characters who are lazy, self-centered, and constantly scheming, leading to chaotic and hilarious outcomes. The low-budget, gritty aesthetic of 'It's Always Sunny' also aligns with the DIY feel of 'Workaholics'.

Fact: The show was initially rejected by several networks before FX picked it up. Danny DeVito joined the cast in the second season, significantly boosting its popularity. The gang's bar, Paddy's Pub, is based on a real Philadelphia bar.

Description: 'The IT Crowd' and 'Workaholics' both revolve around a group of misfit coworkers who are largely ignored by the rest of their company. Both shows use their characters' social awkwardness and lack of ambition as a source of humor, and both feature a mix of surreal and situational comedy. The British humor of 'The IT Crowd' is more subdued than 'Workaholics', but the underlying themes are similar.

Fact: The show was created by Graham Linehan, who also co-created 'Father Ted'. The iconic 'Have you tried turning it off and on again?' line was ad-libbed. The show was initially rejected by Channel 4 before being picked up for a full series.

Description: 'Eastbound & Down' and 'Workaholics' both feature protagonists who are lovable losers with inflated egos and a penchant for self-destruction. Both shows blend crude humor with moments of genuine pathos, and both have a distinct, almost cinematic visual style. Kenny Powers' delusional self-confidence is similar to the Ders' delusional self-confidence in 'Workaholics'.

Fact: The show was created by Ben Best, Jody Hill, and Danny McBride, who also stars as Kenny Powers. Many of the show's most outrageous moments were improvised. The show was initially intended to be a one-season miniseries but was expanded due to its popularity.

Description: Like 'Workaholics', 'Parks and Recreation' is a workplace comedy that thrives on the absurdity of its characters and their interactions. Both shows feature a tight-knit group of coworkers who often find themselves in ridiculous situations, blending humor with a sense of camaraderie. The mockumentary style of 'Parks and Recreation' also mirrors the casual, off-the-cuff feel of 'Workaholics'.

Fact: The character of Ron Swanson was inspired by a real person. Amy Poehler was pregnant during the first season, which was written into the show. The show was initially criticized for being too similar to 'The Office', but it quickly found its own voice.

Description: 'Community' and 'Workaholics' both center around a group of misfits who form a tight-knit, if dysfunctional, community. Both shows are known for their meta-humor, pop culture references, and willingness to break the fourth wall. The study group in 'Community' is similar to the telemarketing crew in 'Workaholics' in that they're all underachievers trying to navigate a system that doesn't quite understand them.

Fact: The show was created by Dan Harmon, who also created 'Rick and Morty'. The infamous 'Paintball' episodes were inspired by action movies and were some of the most expensive episodes to produce. The show was canceled twice but saved by fan campaigns both times.

Description: 'The League' and 'Workaholics' both revolve around a group of friends who are constantly trying to one-up each other, often with disastrous results. Both shows feature a mix of improvisational humor and scripted jokes, and both have a loose, almost documentary-like feel. The competitive, often petty dynamic of the friends in 'The League' is similar to the dynamic of the guys in 'Workaholics'.

Fact: Much of the show's dialogue was improvised, leading to many unscripted moments. The show was created by the husband-and-wife team of Jeff and Jackie Schaffer. Many real-life NFL players made cameo appearances on the show.

Description: 'Brooklyn Nine-Nine' and 'Workaholics' both center around a group of coworkers who are more like a dysfunctional family. Both shows balance humor with heart, and their characters often engage in absurd antics while still caring deeply for one another. The fast-paced, joke-heavy writing style of 'Brooklyn Nine-Nine' is also reminiscent of 'Workaholics'.

Fact: The show was canceled by Fox after five seasons but was revived by NBC due to fan outrage. Andre Braugher, who plays Captain Holt, had never done comedy before this role. The cast often improvises lines, many of which make it into the final cut.

Description: 'Silicon Valley' shares 'Workaholics'' focus on a group of underachievers trying to make it big, albeit in the tech world rather than a telemarketing office. Both shows feature a mix of sharp wit and slapstick humor, and their characters are often their own worst enemies. The satirical take on corporate culture in 'Silicon Valley' also mirrors 'Workaholics'' critique of office life.

Fact: Many of the show's tech scenarios are based on real Silicon Valley stories. The character of Erlich Bachman was inspired by real-life tech entrepreneurs. The show's creators consulted with tech experts to ensure accuracy, even in the most absurd situations.

Description: 'Superstore' and 'Workaholics' both explore the mundane yet bizarre world of low-wage jobs, finding humor in the everyday struggles of their characters. Both shows feature a diverse cast of oddballs who form a tight-knit community, and both use their settings—a big-box store and a telemarketing office—to highlight the absurdity of corporate culture.

Fact: The show was inspired by creator Justin Spitzer's experiences working at a Target. The background actors often improvise their lines, adding to the show's chaotic energy. The show was praised for its portrayal of working-class life and its diverse cast.