10 Shows Like Inmate to Roommate (2022)

Description: A groundbreaking drama set in a high-security prison, known for its gritty portrayal of violence, power struggles, and the psychological toll of incarceration.

Fact: The show was one of HBO's first hour-long dramas and paved the way for future series like 'The Sopranos.' It featured an ensemble cast with many breakout performances.

Description: A high-stakes drama centered around a man's elaborate plan to break his wrongfully accused brother out of prison, blending tension, strategy, and the complexities of prison life.

Fact: The show's iconic tattoo map was designed by the lead actor's real-life tattoo artist. It became a cultural phenomenon and inspired a revival season years later.

Description: A poignant drama about a man released from death row after 19 years, focusing on his struggle to adapt to freedom and the lingering effects of his incarceration.

Fact: The show was praised for its slow-burn storytelling and emotional depth. It was one of the first original series produced by the SundanceTV network.

Description: A dramedy that explores the lives of female inmates in a minimum-security prison, blending humor with serious themes of justice, identity, and community.

Fact: The show is based on a memoir by Piper Kerman, who served time in a federal prison. It was one of Netflix's first major original series successes.

Description: A crime drama that delves into the criminal justice system through the story of a man accused of murder, exploring themes of presumption of guilt and prison life.

Fact: The show was originally developed by James Gandolfini, who was set to star before his death. It is based on the British series 'Criminal Justice.'

Description: This documentary series follows civilians who voluntarily go undercover in jails to expose issues within the correctional system, offering a raw and immersive look at life behind bars.

Fact: Participants in the show are not actual inmates, and their true identities are kept secret from both inmates and prison staff. The show has led to real changes in some of the prisons featured.

Description: A reality series documenting the relationships between former inmates and their partners, exploring the challenges of reintegration and the complexities of love post-incarceration.

Fact: The show often features couples who met through prison pen pal programs. It has spawned multiple spin-offs due to its popularity.

Description: A documentary series recounting true stories of people who were imprisoned in foreign countries, focusing on their survival strategies and eventual release.

Fact: Each episode features reenactments alongside interviews with the actual individuals involved. The show has covered cases from over 50 countries.

Description: A gripping documentary series that provides an unfiltered look at the daily struggles of inmates in some of America's toughest prisons, focusing on their survival and rehabilitation.

Fact: The series was filmed over several years, capturing the long-term effects of incarceration on individuals. It highlights both violent and non-violent offenders, showing diverse prison experiences.

Description: A reality series following new correctional officers as they navigate the challenges of working in a maximum-security prison, offering a behind-the-scenes look at prison operations.

Fact: The show was filmed at the New Mexico Corrections Academy and features real-life training scenarios. It highlights the emotional and physical toll on rookie officers.