10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Stealing Jokes (2024)

Description: Larry David's improvised comedy shares with 'Stealing Jokes' an obsession with social norms and the awkwardness of human interaction. Both explore how real-life experiences become comedic material.

Fact: The show is largely improvised from outlines. Many plotlines are inspired by David's real-life pet peeves. Features numerous Seinfeld alumni in guest roles.

Description: This workplace comedy about a sketch show shares with 'Stealing Jokes' a behind-the-scenes look at comedy writing and performance. Both explore the collaborative yet competitive nature of creating humor professionally.

Fact: Based loosely on Tina Fey's experiences at SNL. Features one of TV's fastest joke-per-minute rates. Alec Baldwin's role was originally written for a different actor.

Description: Like 'Stealing Jokes', 'Hacks' explores generational differences in comedy and the ethics of joke writing. Both shows feature complex mentor-mentee relationships in the comedy world.

Fact: Jean Smart's performance earned widespread acclaim. The writers room includes stand-up comedians. Features authentic Las Vegas locations.

Description: Louis C.K.'s semi-autobiographical series shares with 'Stealing Jokes' a raw, often uncomfortable look at the life of a comedian. Both blend stand-up performances with dramatic storytelling, exploring how personal experiences become comedic material.

Fact: Many episodes were improvised. The show frequently broke conventional TV storytelling rules. C.K. served as writer, director, editor, and star.

Description: While not strictly about comedy, Donald Glover's series shares with 'Stealing Jokes' a meta-commentary on artistic creation and the entertainment industry. Both blend humor with poignant social observations and surreal storytelling elements.

Fact: Each season has a distinct visual style and tone. The show features many real-life musicians in acting roles. Glover wrote and directed many episodes himself.

Description: Set in 1970s Los Angeles, this drama about stand-up comedians parallels 'Stealing Jokes' in its exploration of joke theft, professional rivalry, and the dark side of comedy. Both works examine how personal demons often fuel comedic material.

Fact: Inspired by the real-life comedy club The Comedy Store. Features early-career versions of famous comedians like Richard Pryor and Robin Williams. The title comes from a Rodney Dangerfield joke.

Description: This Pete Holmes-led series shares with 'Stealing Jokes' an insider's look at the stand-up comedy scene, particularly focusing on the ethical dilemmas and personal sacrifices comedians face. Both highlight the tension between artistic integrity and commercial success.

Fact: Many real-life comedians play themselves in cameo roles. The show was produced by Judd Apatow, known for his comedy films. Holmes based much of the story on his own experiences as a struggling comic.

Description: Bill Hader's dark comedy about a hitman-turned-actor parallels 'Stealing Jokes' in its examination of identity and performance. Both shows blend comedy with psychological drama, questioning what's real and what's performance.

Fact: Hader directed many episodes himself. The character of NoHo Hank became an unexpected fan favorite. Features innovative single-take action sequences.

Description: Like 'Stealing Jokes', 'The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel' delves into the world of stand-up comedy, showcasing the struggles and triumphs of a comedian navigating a male-dominated industry. Both explore themes of authenticity, personal growth, and the fine line between inspiration and plagiarism in comedy.

Fact: The show was created by Amy Sherman-Palladino, known for her fast-paced dialogue and strong female leads. Rachel Brosnahan had no stand-up comedy experience before the role and trained extensively. The series won multiple Emmys for its authentic 1950s/60s period details.

Description: This satire about fame and the entertainment industry shares with 'Stealing Jokes' a sharp critique of show business ethics. Both explore how people compromise their values for success in creative fields.

Fact: Originally developed at Comedy Central before moving to HBO Max. Features many real celebrities playing exaggerated versions of themselves. The writers have backgrounds in late-night TV.