If you enjoyed the gripping drama and powerful storytelling of 'First Lady' (2020), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that delve into the lives of influential women, political intrigue, and historical narratives. Whether you're drawn to strong female leads or behind-the-scenes power struggles, these recommendations will keep you hooked.

The West Wing (1999)
Description: A critically acclaimed drama that offers an idealized yet intricate look at the inner workings of the White House, focusing on the personal and professional lives of its staff.
Fact: The show's rapid-fire dialogue and walk-and-talk scenes became its signature style. It won multiple Emmy Awards, including four for Outstanding Drama Series.


Commander in Chief (2005)
Description: Focuses on the first female U.S. president, highlighting the challenges she faces in a male-dominated political landscape.
Fact: The show was notable for its portrayal of a woman breaking the highest glass ceiling in American politics, predating real-life milestones.


The Good Wife (2009)
Description: A legal and political drama that examines the resurgence of a woman's career and personal identity after a public scandal involving her husband.
Fact: The series was praised for its strong female characters and intricate plotlines, often inspired by real-life legal and political cases.


Veep (2012)
Description: A satirical take on the absurdities and pitfalls of political life, with sharp humor and a focus on the personal toll of public service.
Fact: The show was known for its improvisational style, with actors often deviating from the script to enhance comedic moments. It holds the record for the most Emmy wins for a comedy series in a single year.


Scandal (2012)
Description: A political drama that delves into the high-stakes world of Washington, D.C., focusing on power struggles, personal sacrifices, and the complexities of leadership.
Fact: The show was inspired by real-life crisis management expert Judy Smith, who served as a co-executive producer. It was one of the first network dramas to feature a Black female lead in a powerful political role.


House of Cards (2013)
Description: A dark, gripping exploration of political ambition, manipulation, and the moral compromises made in the pursuit of power.
Fact: The series was one of Netflix's first major original productions, helping to establish the platform as a leader in streaming content. It was adapted from a British series of the same name.


The Newsroom (2012)
Description: A sharp, fast-paced drama about the inner workings of a news network, tackling issues of media ethics, political bias, and the pursuit of truth.
Fact: The show's pilot episode featured a fictionalized version of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, setting the tone for its blend of real-world events with dramatic storytelling.


Madam Secretary (2014)
Description: Centers on a strong female protagonist navigating the challenges of high-level political office, balancing personal ethics with professional demands.
Fact: The show was praised for its realistic portrayal of diplomatic negotiations and often drew inspiration from current global events.


Designated Survivor (2016)
Description: Explores the sudden ascent of an unlikely leader thrust into the presidency, dealing with crises while navigating political intrigue.
Fact: The concept of a 'designated survivor' is a real-life protocol in the U.S. government to ensure continuity of leadership in case of a catastrophic event.


The Good Fight (2017)
Description: A spin-off that continues to explore themes of power, corruption, and resilience in the legal and political arenas, with a focus on female empowerment.
Fact: The show was one of the first original series produced for CBS All Access (now Paramount+), marking a shift toward streaming for traditional networks.
