10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Duets (2000)

Description: While 'The Ultimate Fighter' is about MMA fighting, it shares with 'Duets' a competitive reality TV format where contestants strive for a professional breakthrough. Both shows highlight the dedication and passion required to succeed in a competitive field.

Fact: The show was created by Dana White and Craig Piligian. It has launched the careers of many UFC fighters. The first season featured a famous rivalry between Forrest Griffin and Stephan Bonnar.

Description: Like 'Duets,' 'Top Chef' is a competition show that emphasizes skill, creativity, and performance under pressure. Both shows celebrate the artistry of their respective fields—cooking and singing—and the passion of the contestants.

Fact: The show has won multiple Emmy Awards. It has featured guest judges like Anthony Bourdain and Michelle Obama. The format has been adapted in many countries worldwide.

Description: 'Glee' shares with 'Duets' a focus on musical performance and the dynamics of singing together. Both highlight the power of music to bring people together and tell stories. 'Glee' expands this into a narrative format, while 'Duets' is a competition, but the core love for music is the same.

Fact: The show popularized covers of songs, many of which charted on Billboard. It addressed social issues like LGBTQ+ rights and bullying. The cast performed at the White House for President Obama.

Description: Like 'Duets,' 'RuPaul's Drag Race' is a competition show centered around performance and artistry. Both emphasize the importance of stage presence, charisma, and talent. While 'Duets' focuses on singing, 'Drag Race' incorporates singing, dancing, and acting, making it a broader performance competition.

Fact: The show has won multiple Emmy Awards. It has spawned international versions in countries like the UK and Canada. RuPaul is the first openly gay black man to host a reality TV show.

Description: 'Nashville' and 'Duets' both focus on the music industry, with 'Nashville' providing a dramatic take on country music. Both highlight the emotional and professional challenges of musicians. The emphasis on live performance and the power of music to connect people is a shared element.

Fact: The show was created by Callie Khouri. Many cast members, like Connie Britton and Hayden Panettiere, performed their own songs. It was filmed on location in Nashville, Tennessee.

Description: 'Empire' and 'Duets' both delve into the music industry, though 'Empire' is a drama and 'Duets' a competition. Both explore the highs and lows of musical careers and the passion behind performance. The emotional tone of ambition and artistry is a shared theme.

Fact: The show was created by Lee Daniels and Danny Strong. It features original music produced by Timbaland. Taraji P. Henson's character, Cookie Lyon, became a cultural icon.

Description: 'Project Runway' and 'Duets' are both competition shows that spotlight creativity and artistry. While 'Project Runway' focuses on fashion design, 'Duets' is about musical performance, but both celebrate the creative process and the thrill of competition.

Fact: The show was created by Eli Holzman. Heidi Klum hosted for many seasons. It has inspired spin-offs like 'Project Runway: All Stars.'

Description: Similar to 'Duets,' 'Smash' is about the creation and performance of music, specifically Broadway shows. Both emphasize the collaborative nature of performance and the dedication required to succeed in the entertainment industry. The behind-the-scenes look at artistic creation is a key similarity.

Fact: The show was created by Theresa Rebeck. It features original songs by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman. Despite critical acclaim, it was canceled after two seasons.

Description: Similar to 'Duets' (2000), 'Lip Sync Battle' is a performance-based show that highlights the entertainment value of music and performance. Both shows focus on the joy and competition of performing, albeit in different formats—'Duets' is about singing, while 'Lip Sync Battle' is about lip-syncing. The competitive yet fun atmosphere is a common thread.

Fact: The show was inspired by a segment on 'The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.' Celebrities like Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson and Anne Hathaway have participated. It has been praised for its lighthearted and entertaining approach to competition.

Description: 'American Idol' and 'Duets' are both singing competition shows that aim to discover new talent. Both emphasize the journey of the contestants and the emotional highs and lows of performance. The focus on vocal ability and stage presence is a key similarity.

Fact: The show launched the careers of stars like Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood. It was originally hosted by Ryan Seacrest. At its peak, it was one of the most-watched shows in the U.S.