10 Shows Like Eastbound & Down (2009)

Description: Like 'Eastbound & Down', this show features a socially awkward protagonist who constantly finds himself in embarrassing situations. Both series use improvisational comedy and explore themes of failure and social missteps.

Fact: The show is largely improvised based on Larry David's outlines. It was originally conceived as a one-hour special. Many plotlines are inspired by real events in David's life.

Description: This show shares 'Eastbound & Down's' brand of politically incorrect humor and features deeply flawed, narcissistic characters. Both series push boundaries in comedy while exploring the absurdity of their protagonists' lives.

Fact: It's the longest-running live-action American sitcom. The creators initially funded the pilot themselves. Danny DeVito joined the cast in season 2, significantly boosting the show's popularity.

Description: This series shares 'Eastbound & Down's' raunchy humor and focus on competitive, immature male friendships. Both shows feature characters who are terrible people but oddly lovable in their awfulness.

Fact: Much of the dialogue was improvised. NFL players frequently made cameo appearances. The fantasy football element was secondary to the character comedy.

Description: While animated, 'Archer' shares 'Eastbound & Down's' sharp, irreverent humor and features a similarly self-absorbed protagonist. Both shows excel at rapid-fire dialogue and absurd situations stemming from their leads' massive egos.

Fact: The show was originally pitched as 'James Bond meets 'Arrested Development''. H. Jon Benjamin voices Sterling Archer, using the same voice as Bob in 'Bob's Burgers'. The animation style is inspired by 1960s spy films.

Description: Like 'Eastbound & Down', this show features an awkward, socially inept protagonist (Nathan Fielder) whose confidence far exceeds his competence. Both series excel at cringe comedy and satirize American culture.

Fact: The show's stunts often involved real businesses unaware of the joke. Nathan Fielder graduated from business school before creating the show. The series finale featured an elaborate multi-year prank called 'The Movement'.

Description: While set in a different world, 'Silicon Valley' shares 'Eastbound & Down's' sharp satire and features socially awkward characters navigating professional challenges. Both shows excel at cringe comedy and absurd situations.

Fact: Many tech entrepreneurs have cited the show's accuracy. The character Jian Yang was originally written as a one-off role. The show's tech jargon was vetted by real engineers.

Description: This show shares 'Eastbound & Down's' blend of humor and pathos, featuring a failed professional (in this case, a clown) struggling with his dreams. Both series find comedy in their protagonists' suffering.

Fact: Zach Galifianakis plays twin brothers in the show. Louie Anderson won an Emmy for his role as the mother. The show was co-created by Louis C.K.'s production company.

Description: Another Danny McBride creation, 'Vice Principals' shares the same comedic style and thematic elements as 'Eastbound & Down'. Both feature McBride as a self-destructive protagonist navigating professional and personal failures with dark humor.

Fact: The series was originally planned as a one-season story. It co-stars Walton Goggins, who brings a similar chaotic energy to his role as in 'Justified'. The show's finale was directed by David Gordon Green, a frequent collaborator with McBride.

Description: Like 'Eastbound & Down', 'The Righteous Gemstones' is created by Danny McBride and shares a similar dark comedy tone, focusing on flawed, egotistical characters in absurd situations. Both shows explore themes of redemption and failure, wrapped in outrageous humor.

Fact: The show is inspired by televangelists and mega-churches. Danny McBride plays the lead role, Jesse Gemstone, continuing his tradition of playing arrogant yet vulnerable characters. Walton Goggins, who appeared in 'Vice Principals', also stars in this series.

Description: Similar to 'Eastbound & Down', this show features slacker characters navigating adulthood with immaturity and poor decision-making. Both series celebrate absurdity and feature protagonists who refuse to grow up.

Fact: The main cast met while working at a telemarketing company. Many episodes were inspired by the actors' real-life experiences. The show helped launch the careers of several alternative comedians.