10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Coach (1989)

Description: Like 'Coach', 'Cheers' is a classic sitcom that revolves around a tight-knit group of characters in a specific setting—a bar in Boston. Both shows emphasize camaraderie, humor, and the dynamics of a workplace family. The witty, character-driven humor and the blend of heartwarming moments with comedy are key similarities.

Fact: 'Cheers' was initially a ratings flop but became one of the most beloved sitcoms of all time. The show's theme song, 'Where Everybody Knows Your Name,' is iconic and instantly recognizable. It spawned the successful spin-off 'Frasier.'

Description: 'Scrubs' shares with 'Coach' a blend of humor and heartfelt storytelling, set in a high-stakes workplace (a hospital). Both shows use their settings to explore themes of teamwork, personal growth, and the absurdities of professional life. The quirky, often surreal humor is another common thread.

Fact: The show's creator, Bill Lawrence, based many stories on real-life experiences of his medical school friends. The janitor (Neil Flynn) was originally a one-off character but became a series regular due to fan love. The soundtrack featured many indie and alternative bands, setting it apart from other sitcoms.

Description: While 'Arrested Development' is more absurdist than 'Coach', both shows feature dysfunctional families (or teams) and rely on sharp, witty writing. The ensemble casts and the way characters play off each other's quirks are key similarities. Both also use running gags and callbacks effectively.

Fact: The show was famously canceled after three seasons but gained a cult following and was revived by Netflix. The narration by Ron Howard was a last-minute addition to help clarify the complex plot. The Bluth family's banana stand became an iconic symbol of the show.

Description: While darker in tone than 'Coach', 'It's Always Sunny' shares a focus on a dysfunctional group (the Gang at Paddy's Pub) and their absurd misadventures. Both shows rely on character-driven humor and the dynamics of a close-knit, if flawed, team. The irreverent humor is a key similarity, though 'Sunny' takes it to extremes.

Fact: The show was initially rejected by multiple networks before FX picked it up. Danny DeVito joined the cast in Season 2, boosting its popularity. The gang's selfishness and lack of growth are central to the show's humor.

Description: Like 'Coach', '30 Rock' is a workplace comedy with a fast-paced, joke-heavy style. Both shows feature a strong, eccentric leader (Coach Hayden vs. Liz Lemon) navigating the chaos of their professional worlds. The ensemble casts and satirical takes on their respective industries (sports vs. television) are also similar.

Fact: The show is loosely based on Tina Fey's experiences as head writer at 'Saturday Night Live.' Alec Baldwin's character, Jack Donaghy, was initially intended to be a minor role but became a central figure. The show won multiple Emmys for Outstanding Comedy Series.

Description: Similar to 'Coach', 'Parks and Recreation' focuses on a group of quirky, lovable characters working together in a professional setting (a parks department). Both shows highlight teamwork, underdog stories, and the humor found in everyday bureaucratic challenges. The optimistic tone and strong ensemble cast are also shared traits.

Fact: The show was initially conceived as a spin-off of 'The Office' but evolved into its own unique series. Amy Poehler's character, Leslie Knope, was inspired by real-life female politicians. The mockumentary style was influenced by 'The Office.'

Description: 'Community' shares with 'Coach' a focus on a diverse group of characters coming together in a shared space (a community college study group vs. a football team). Both shows blend humor with heartfelt moments and explore themes of belonging and personal growth. The meta-humor and pop culture references in 'Community' are a unique twist.

Fact: The show's creator, Dan Harmon, used a 'story circle' technique to structure episodes. The paintball episodes are among the most celebrated in the series. The show's passionate fanbase led to the hashtag #SixSeasonsAndAMovie.

Description: 'Modern Family' shares with 'Coach' a blend of humor and heart, focusing on the dynamics of a diverse group (in this case, an extended family). Both shows use mockumentary-style interviews to break the fourth wall and add depth to characters. The ensemble casts and relatable, everyday humor are also similar.

Fact: The show was one of the first to feature a same-sex couple as main characters. The actors who play Cam and Mitchell (Eric Stonestreet and Jesse Tyler Ferguson) are both straight in real life. The show won the Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series five times in a row.

Description: Like 'Coach', 'Brooklyn Nine-Nine' is a workplace comedy with a focus on a close-knit team (in this case, a police precinct). Both shows balance humor with heartfelt moments and feature strong leadership figures (Coach Hayden vs. Captain Holt) who guide their teams with a mix of toughness and care.

Fact: The show was canceled by Fox after five seasons but was revived by NBC due to fan outcry. Andre Braugher's portrayal of Captain Holt earned widespread acclaim for breaking stereotypes about LGBTQ+ characters. The Halloween heist episodes became a fan-favorite tradition.

Description: Like 'Coach', 'The Goldbergs' is a nostalgic, family-centric comedy with a heartwarming tone. Both shows use humor to explore relationships and personal growth, though 'The Goldbergs' is set in a family home rather than a workplace. The 1980s setting of 'The Goldbergs' also echoes the era of 'Coach'.

Fact: The show is based on creator Adam F. Goldberg's real-life family and childhood. Each episode ends with a real home video from Goldberg's family. The show's use of 1980s pop culture and music is a hallmark.