10 Shows and Movies Like Conan O’Brien Must Go (2024)

Description: This show shares with 'Conan O'Brien Must Go' a penchant for surreal, absurdist humor and a disregard for traditional comedic structures. Both shows are unafraid to be weird and unpredictable, often leaving audiences both confused and delighted. The DIY aesthetic and offbeat sensibility of 'Tim and Eric' are echoed in Conan's more unconventional segments.

Fact: The show was originally aired on Adult Swim. Many of the show's sketches feature intentionally poor production quality for comedic effect. The show has a cult following and has influenced many other comedy series.

Description: Graham Norton's show, like Conan's, is known for its lively, humorous interviews with celebrity guests. Both hosts have a knack for making their guests feel comfortable, leading to more candid and entertaining conversations. The light-hearted, fun atmosphere of 'The Graham Norton Show' is similar to the tone Conan often aims for.

Fact: The show is recorded in front of a live audience, adding to its energetic vibe. Norton's famous 'red chair' segment often leads to hilarious and unexpected stories. The show has won multiple BAFTA awards for its entertainment value.

Description: 'Portlandia' shares with 'Conan O'Brien Must Go' a love for quirky, offbeat humor and satire. Both shows excel at poking fun at cultural trends and societal norms, often through exaggerated characters and scenarios. The shows' unique, indie sensibilities make them stand out in the comedy landscape.

Fact: The show was created by Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein. Many of the show's sketches are based on real-life Portland stereotypes. The show's title sequence features a song by Washed Out.

Description: Like 'Conan O'Brien Must Go', 'The Eric Andre Show' thrives on absurdist humor, chaotic energy, and breaking the conventions of traditional talk shows. Both shows feature a host who is unafraid to push boundaries, often making guests uncomfortable for comedic effect. The surreal and unpredictable nature of 'The Eric Andre Show' mirrors the offbeat, spontaneous style that Conan O'Brien is known for.

Fact: The show's set is intentionally designed to fall apart during filming to add to the chaotic vibe. Many celebrity guests are unaware of the show's format, leading to genuine reactions of confusion and shock. Eric Andre has cited 'Late Night with Conan O'Brien' as a major influence on his comedic style.

Description: Nathan Fielder's show, much like 'Conan O'Brien Must Go', blends reality with absurdity, often putting real people in bizarre situations for comedic effect. Both shows feature hosts who use their awkward personas to create humor, and both are known for their clever, out-of-the-box thinking when it comes to comedy.

Fact: Nathan Fielder graduated from business school, which inspired the show's premise. Many of the business owners featured on the show were unaware of its comedic nature. The show's finale featured a 30-minute continuous shot, a rarity in comedy television.

Description: While more politically focused, 'Last Week Tonight' shares with 'Conan O'Brien Must Go' a sharp, witty humor and a willingness to tackle topics in a unique, entertaining way. Both hosts are known for their intelligent, satirical takes on current events, and both shows blend humor with insightful commentary.

Fact: John Oliver was a correspondent on 'The Daily Show' before hosting his own show. The show's deep dives into niche topics often lead to real-world changes. Oliver's segments are known for their elaborate and humorous props.

Description: As fellow late-night hosts, Colbert and Conan share a similar format but each brings their unique comedic style to the table. Both shows feature a mix of monologues, sketches, and interviews, and both hosts are known for their quick wit and ability to connect with their audience.

Fact: Colbert originally gained fame on 'The Daily Show' and 'The Colbert Report'. The show's opening monologue often includes musical numbers. Colbert is known for his in-depth, thoughtful interviews with political figures.

Description: This show, like 'Conan O'Brien Must Go', showcases a love for parody and satire. Both shows take familiar formats (documentaries for 'Documentary Now!', travel shows for Conan) and twist them for comedic effect. The attention to detail and commitment to the bit in both shows are remarkable.

Fact: The show is created by Fred Armisen, Bill Hader, and Seth Meyers. Each episode parodies a specific, well-known documentary. The show has featured guest appearances by notable documentary subjects.

Description: 'Hot Ones' and 'Conan O'Brien Must Go' both revolve around interviews, but with a unique twist that sets them apart from traditional talk shows. Both shows use their gimmicks (spicy wings for 'Hot Ones', travel for Conan) to elicit genuine, unguarded reactions from their guests, making for entertaining and unpredictable television.

Fact: The show's hot sauce lineup is carefully curated to increase in heat with each wing. Many celebrities have been brought to tears by the heat of the wings. The show's popularity has led to a line of branded hot sauces.

Description: This series shares with 'Conan O'Brien Must Go' a love for awkward, cringe-inducing humor and satirical interviews. Both Conan and Zach Galifianakis use their interviews to subvert expectations, often making their guests the butt of the joke. The deadpan delivery and uncomfortable pauses in 'Between Two Ferns' are reminiscent of Conan's signature style of humor.

Fact: The series was originally created for Funny or Die. Barack Obama appeared on the show in 2014 to promote healthcare.gov. Many of the celebrity guests' reactions are unscripted, adding to the show's authenticity.