Must-Watch Shows & Movies Like Ties That Bind

Description: A seminal teen drama that delves into the emotional and romantic lives of a close-knit group of friends, with a strong focus on dialogue and relationships.

Fact: The show was one of the first to feature a gay teenager as a main character. It was set in Massachusetts but filmed in North Carolina, doubling for the New England setting.

Description: A witty and warm series focusing on the close bond between a mother and daughter, set in a quirky small town filled with memorable characters.

Fact: The show's fast-paced dialogue was inspired by classic screwball comedies. It was known for its pop culture references and strong female leads.

Description: A heartfelt story about a widowed father and his children adjusting to life in a small town, dealing with grief, new relationships, and community dynamics.

Fact: The show was one of the first to film in Utah, taking advantage of its scenic landscapes. It was critically acclaimed but struggled with ratings, leading to its cancellation after four seasons.

Description: A mix of teen drama and family dynamics, set against the backdrop of wealthy Southern California, exploring themes of class, love, and belonging.

Fact: The show popularized the term 'Chrismukkah,' a holiday mashup created by one of the characters. Its soundtrack introduced many indie bands to mainstream audiences.

Description: A coming-of-age drama set in a small town, focusing on the lives, loves, and rivalries of a group of teenagers and their families.

Fact: The show's iconic voiceovers were initially improvised by the creator. It survived a major cast shakeup in later seasons and maintained a loyal fanbase.

Description: A family drama that explores complex relationships, secrets, and emotional bonds among siblings and parents, often delving into personal and professional struggles.

Fact: The show was initially planned to focus more on politics, but shifted to family dynamics after the pilot. It features one of the first openly gay characters in a leading role on network TV.

Description: A drama that blends sports with personal and family struggles, showcasing the impact of community and relationships on individual lives.

Fact: The series was praised for its realistic portrayal of small-town life and its use of handheld cameras to create a documentary-like feel. It developed a cult following despite low ratings initially.

Description: Centers on the lives of an extended family, highlighting the joys and challenges of parenting, sibling rivalries, and generational differences with heartfelt storytelling.

Fact: The series is based on the 1989 film of the same name and was developed by Jason Katims, who also worked on 'Friday Night Lights.' It often tackled real-life issues like autism and teen pregnancy.

Description: A drama about a multi-ethnic family blending foster and biological children, tackling issues of identity, love, and acceptance in a modern household.

Fact: The series was praised for its diverse cast and realistic portrayal of LGBTQ+ relationships. It spawned a spin-off, 'Good Trouble,' which continues some characters' stories.

Description: A deeply emotional series that weaves together the lives of family members across different timelines, focusing on love, loss, and personal growth.

Fact: The show's unique narrative structure, jumping between past and present, was inspired by the film 'Pulp Fiction.' It became known for its tear-jerking episodes and strong character development.