If you loved the sharp wit and behind-the-scenes drama of Arliss (1996), this list is for you. The HBO series, starring Robert Wuhl as a slick sports agent, blended humor, ambition, and high-stakes negotiations. Here, we’ve curated 10 shows and movies that capture the same energy—whether it’s the cutthroat world of agents, workplace satire, or charismatic leads navigating chaos. Dive in to find your next binge-worthy favorite!

Sports Night (1998)
Description: A comedy-drama set behind the scenes of a sports news show, blending workplace humor with the personal lives of its characters.
Fact: Aaron Sorkin, known for his sharp dialogue, created the series before his success with 'The West Wing.'


Entourage (2004)
Description: The show revolves around the personal and professional lives of a rising Hollywood star and his close-knit group of friends, blending humor with the behind-the-scenes drama of the entertainment industry.
Fact: The series was loosely based on Mark Wahlberg's experiences as an up-and-coming actor in Hollywood.


Eastbound & Down (2009)
Description: A dark comedy about a washed-up baseball player trying to reclaim his glory days, filled with outrageous humor and personal redemption arcs.
Fact: The series was inspired by the real-life struggles of former professional athletes trying to adapt to life after fame.


Blue Mountain State (2010)
Description: A raucous comedy set in a college football program, focusing on the antics of players both on and off the field.
Fact: The show's over-the-top humor and portrayal of college sports life earned it a dedicated fanbase.


Lights Out (2011)
Description: A drama centered around a retired heavyweight boxing champion dealing with financial and personal challenges, blending sports action with family drama.
Fact: The series was praised for its gritty realism and portrayal of the physical and emotional toll of boxing.


The League (2009)
Description: A comedy about a group of friends obsessed with fantasy football, blending sports fandom with absurd humor and personal rivalries.
Fact: Many of the show's storylines were improvised, giving it a spontaneous and unpredictable feel.


Ballers (2015)
Description: Focuses on the lives of professional football players and their financial and personal struggles, offering a mix of sports action and off-field drama.
Fact: Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson not only starred in but also executive produced the series.


Kingdom (2014)
Description: A gritty drama set in the world of mixed martial arts, exploring the lives of fighters and their families with intense emotional depth.
Fact: The show was lauded for its authentic fight scenes and complex character relationships.


The Game (2006)
Description: A sitcom that explores the lives of professional football players and their significant others, mixing sports culture with relationship dynamics.
Fact: Originally a spin-off from 'Girlfriends,' the show gained a cult following for its humorous take on athlete lifestyles.


The Player (2015)
Description: A high-stakes thriller that delves into the world of gambling and crime, featuring a protagonist who navigates dangerous situations with wit and strategy.
Fact: The show was created by the same team behind 'The Blacklist,' known for its fast-paced storytelling.
