10 Shows Like Damages (2007)

Description: As a predecessor to 'Damages', 'The Practice' established many of the legal drama tropes that 'Damages' would later subvert. Both shows feature intense courtroom scenes and explore the personal costs of legal battles. The moral complexity of cases and character development are central to both.

Fact: Spawned the spin-off 'Boston Legal'. Won the Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series in 1998 and

Description: While more comedic than 'Damages', 'Boston Legal' shares its focus on complex legal cases and morally ambiguous characters. Both shows feature brilliant but flawed attorneys who often bend the rules. The mentor-mentee dynamic is also present, though more humorous in this series.

Fact: William Shatner and James Spader's chemistry led to their Emmy wins. Known for its quirky closing scenes where characters discuss philosophy. Many episodes ended with social commentary monologues.

Description: Like 'Damages', this series features a brilliant lawyer operating in morally grey areas, with complex cases that reveal deeper societal issues. Both shows balance legal procedural elements with character-driven storytelling and maintain a tense, engaging atmosphere.

Fact: Based on Michael Connelly's bestselling novels. The main character operates out of his car, hence the title. Connelly's Harry Bosch appears in the series, connecting it to the 'Bosch' universe.

Description: Like 'Damages', 'The Good Wife' is a legal drama that blends courtroom battles with personal and political intrigue. Both shows feature strong female leads navigating complex legal and ethical dilemmas, often blurring the lines between right and wrong. The storytelling is intricate, with multi-layered plots that keep viewers engaged.

Fact: Julianna Margulies won two Emmy Awards for her role as Alicia Florrick. The show was inspired by real-life political scandals involving politicians' wives. It spawned a spin-off, 'The Good Fight', which continues some storylines.

Description: 'Suits' shares with 'Damages' a high-stakes legal environment where intelligence and strategy are key. Both shows delve into the moral ambiguities of the legal profession, featuring characters who often operate in grey areas. The dynamic between the leads in 'Suits' mirrors the intense mentor-mentee relationship in 'Damages'.

Fact: Meghan Markle's role as Rachel Zane was her breakout part before becoming royalty. The show was initially pitched as 'Good Will Hunting' in a law firm. It holds the record for the most-watched scripted series on USA Network.

Description: While more political than legal, 'Scandal' shares 'Damages'' fast-paced, twist-filled storytelling and powerful female lead. Both shows explore the dark side of power and feature characters who manipulate the system to their advantage. The intense personal and professional relationships are similarly central.

Fact: Kerry Washington was the first African-American woman to lead a network drama in 40 years. Known for its rapid-fire 'walk and talk' scenes. Creator Shonda Rhimes wrote many episodes in her bathtub.

Description: Like 'Damages', this show explores the moral descent of its protagonist in the legal world. Both feature brilliant but ethically compromised lawyers, with intense character studies and slow-burning narratives. The visual storytelling and attention to detail in both series are exceptional.

Fact: Originally conceived as a half-hour comedy. Features many 'Breaking Bad' characters in expanded roles. Holds a 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes across all seasons.

Description: This series, like 'Damages', combines legal drama with thriller elements, featuring a powerful, morally complex female protagonist. Both shows use non-linear storytelling to unravel mysteries, keeping audiences guessing. The intense, sometimes dark tone and exploration of ethical boundaries are key similarities.

Fact: Viola Davis became the first African-American woman to win the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama. The show's creator, Peter Nowalk, was a writer on 'Grey's Anatomy'. Each season's murder mystery was planned from the beginning.

Description: This legal drama shares 'Damages'' focus on a flawed protagonist taking on powerful institutions. Both shows feature intense courtroom battles and explore themes of redemption and justice. The gritty tone and high-stakes cases create similar tension.

Fact: Billy Bob Thornton won a Golden Globe for his role. Created by David E. Kelley, who also created 'Boston Legal'. Each season features a completely new case and setting.

Description: As a spiritual successor to both 'The Good Wife' and 'Damages', this series continues the tradition of complex female-led legal dramas. It shares 'Damages'' willingness to tackle contemporary political issues and its unflinching look at power dynamics in law.

Fact: Initially conceived as a straight continuation of 'The Good Wife'. One of the first major shows to be produced specifically for CBS All Access. Known for its surreal animated sequences.