10 Movies and Shows Like Elsbeth (2024) You’ll Love

Description: As a predecessor to 'Boston Legal' and from the same creator as 'Elsbeth' (David E. Kelley), this show shares similar legal drama DNA. Both series focus on idealistic attorneys taking on challenging cases, though 'The Practice' is more straightforward in its drama without the comedic elements.

Fact: Won the Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series in 1998 and

Description: This series shares 'Elsbeth's' balance of legal drama and humor, often addressing serious issues with a light touch. Both shows feature eccentric but brilliant attorneys who think outside the box. The episodic structure with case-of-the-week stories is similar, though 'Boston Legal' leans more heavily into comedy.

Fact: Spun off from 'The Practice'. James Spader won three Emmy Awards for his role. The show was known for its liberal political commentary.

Description: This legal thriller shares 'Elsbeth's' focus on complex female characters and morally ambiguous storytelling. Both shows feature brilliant attorneys navigating high-stakes cases, though 'Damages' has a darker, more serialized approach with its season-long mysteries.

Fact: Glenn Close won two Emmys for her role as Patty Hewes. The show's non-linear storytelling was innovative for its time. It helped launch the careers of several actors including Timothy Olyphant and Ryan Phillippe.

Description: Like 'Elsbeth', 'The Good Wife' is a legal drama that combines courtroom intrigue with strong character development. Both shows feature intelligent, resourceful female leads navigating complex legal and personal challenges. The series also shares a similar tone, blending drama with moments of humor and wit.

Fact: Julianna Margulies won two Emmy Awards for her role as Alicia Florrick. The show was inspired by real-life political scandals involving politicians' wives. It spawned a successful spin-off, 'The Good Fight'.

Description: Like 'Elsbeth', this show combines legal drama with comedic elements and features unconventional lawyers who win cases through creative thinking. Both series have a lighthearted tone despite dealing with serious legal matters, and both celebrate the underdog spirit in the legal world.

Fact: Mark-Paul Gosselaar's first major TV role after 'Saved by the Bell'. The show was known for its pop culture references. Featured guest stars like Heather Locklear and Jane Seymour.

Description: While more focused on corporate law than 'Elsbeth', 'Suits' shares the same blend of legal drama and character-driven storytelling. Both shows feature quick-witted dialogue and protagonists who use unconventional methods to win cases. The New York setting and stylish production values are also comparable.

Fact: Meghan Markle's role as Rachel Zane launched her to international fame. The show was filmed in Toronto despite being set in New York. It holds the record for most-watched acquired series on Netflix.

Description: This legal dramedy shares 'Elsbeth's' blend of courtroom drama and character-driven humor. Both feature brilliant but flawed attorneys who win cases through unconventional means. The shows balance serious legal issues with comedic moments and eccentric characters.

Fact: Remake of an Australian series of the same name. Starred Greg Kinnear in his first regular TV role. Only lasted one season despite critical praise.

Description: Like 'Elsbeth', this show features a formidable female lead in the legal profession (Annalise Keating) who mentors younger lawyers. Both series combine legal cases with personal drama and mystery elements. The fast-paced storytelling and twist-filled plots are similar, though 'HTGAWM' is more thriller-oriented.

Fact: Viola Davis became the first Black woman to win the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama. The show popularized the 'How to Get Away with Murder' college course trope. It was created by Peter Nowalk, a protégé of Shonda Rhimes.

Description: While focused on trial science rather than traditional lawyering, 'Bull' shares 'Elsbeth's' interest in the psychology behind legal strategies. Both shows feature charismatic leads who use unconventional methods in the courtroom. The New York setting and case-of-the-week format are also similar.

Fact: Inspired by the early career of Dr. Phil McGraw. Michael Weatherly left 'NCIS' to star in this series. The show faced controversy over sexual harassment allegations behind the scenes.

Description: As a spin-off of 'The Good Wife', this series shares many similarities with 'Elsbeth', particularly in its focus on a brilliant female protagonist in the legal world. Both shows explore contemporary social issues through their legal cases and feature sharp, fast-paced dialogue.

Fact: Christine Baranski reprises her role from 'The Good Wife'. The show was one of the first original series on CBS All Access (now Paramount+). It incorporates animated sequences to depict characters' fantasies and thoughts.