10 Shows and Movies Like Californication (2007)

Description: While more female-focused, this iconic series shares 'Californication's' exploration of sexual relationships in an urban setting. Both shows feature writers as protagonists navigating love and life with witty dialogue and adult themes.

Fact: The famous opening sequence cost $75,000 per episode. Sarah Jessica Parker bought over 100 pairs of Manolo Blahniks during filming. The show boosted New York City tourism significantly.

Description: Like 'Californication', 'Entourage' explores the hedonistic lifestyle of Hollywood, focusing on the entertainment industry's excesses and personal relationships. Both shows feature protagonists navigating fame, love, and personal demons with a mix of humor and drama.

Fact: 'Entourage' was loosely based on Mark Wahlberg's experiences in Hollywood. The show popularized the term 'hug it out' which became a cultural catchphrase. Jeremy Piven's performance as Ari Gold is considered one of the greatest in TV history.

Description: This dark comedy shares 'Californication's' themes of masculinity and sexuality, featuring a struggling creative professional (coach vs. writer) who turns to sex work. Both shows examine American masculinity through a satirical lens.

Fact: Thomas Jane trained extensively for the role. The show's title has double meaning referring to both anatomy and desire. Was HBO's first half-hour comedy in years.

Description: A comedy about a writer (like Hank Moody) who becomes an unlicensed private investigator. Both shows blend noir elements with comedy and feature protagonists who use writing as both profession and escape from their messy lives.

Fact: Jonathan Ames based the lead character on himself. Ted Danson's first regular TV role since 'Cheers'. The show was canceled despite a passionate fan base.

Description: Like 'Californication', this meta-comedy satirizes Hollywood and the entertainment industry, featuring writers as protagonists. Both shows blend British and American humor while exploring the absurdities of show business.

Fact: Matt LeBlanc plays a fictionalized version of himself. Won LeBlanc a Golden Globe. The creators based it on their own experiences adapting UK shows for US TV.

Description: This series shares with 'Californication' a deep dive into human sexuality and relationships, albeit in a more historical and scientific context. Both shows challenge societal norms around sex and feature complex, flawed characters.

Fact: Based on the real-life research of William Masters and Virginia Johnson. Michael Sheen and Lizzy Caplan's chemistry was praised as electric. The show was noted for its accurate depiction of 1950s/60s America.

Description: This romantic comedy shares 'Californication's' mix of humor and heart in exploring relationships. Both feature self-destructive yet charming protagonists in the entertainment field (writing vs. medicine) trying to balance work and personal life.

Fact: Mindy Kaling wrote most episodes herself. Originally on Fox before moving to Hulu. Chris Messina improvised many of Danny's lines.

Description: This series shares 'Californication's' exploration of adult relationships and midlife crises, though with a more grounded approach. Both shows feature creative professionals navigating personal and professional challenges in Los Angeles.

Fact: Created by Mark and Jay Duplass. Only ran for two seasons despite critical acclaim. Featured improvised dialogue in many scenes.

Description: A dark comedy about dysfunctional relationships, similar to 'Californication' in its unflinching look at flawed characters who can't seem to get their lives together despite their talents. Both shows blend humor with poignant moments about human connection.

Fact: Initially rejected by several networks before FX picked it up. One of the first comedies to seriously depict clinical depression. The show's theme song was written by the series creator Stephen Falk.

Description: Like 'Californication', this show examines modern relationships with a mix of humor and melancholy. Both feature writers dealing with family dynamics and romantic entanglements in California, with a similar tone balancing comedy and drama.

Fact: Created by Zander Lehmann who based it loosely on his life. One of Hulu's first original series. The title refers to casual relationships but also the characters' casual approach to life.