10 Movies and Shows Similar to Sullivan’s Crossing (2023)

Description: This classic shares with Sullivan's Crossing themes of family, resilience, and rural life. Both shows depict the challenges and rewards of living close to nature in tight-knit communities, with emotional storytelling that spans generations.

Fact: Michael Landon directed 87 of the 203 episodes. The show was based on Laura Ingalls Wilder's autobiographical books. Melissa Gilbert (Laura) and Dean Butler (Almanzo) dated in real life during filming.

Description: Like Sullivan's Crossing, this show features a strong female professional in a frontier setting, dealing with medical cases while navigating personal relationships. Both blend drama with historical elements and focus on community healing.

Fact: Jane Seymour did many of her own stunts. The show was initially rejected by all networks before CBS picked it up. It sparked renewed interest in 19th-century frontier medicine.

Description: Though set in a coastal town rather than mountains, Dawson's Creek shares with Sullivan's Crossing coming-of-age themes, complex relationships, and a strong sense of place. Both shows balance drama with moments of humor and introspection.

Fact: Launched the careers of multiple Oscar winners. The theme song was originally supposed to be 'Run Like Mad' by Jann Arden. Creator Kevin Williamson wrote the pilot in just 6 days.

Description: Gilmore Girls and Sullivan's Crossing both celebrate small-town life with quirky characters and multi-generational relationships. The fast-paced, dialogue-heavy style of Gilmore Girls finds an echo in Sullivan's Crossing's character-driven storytelling.

Fact: The script for the pilot was 78 pages long (normal is 50-60). Nearly every episode title is a reference to something in pop culture. The show's creator based Stars Hollow on her hometown of Washington, Connecticut.

Description: Everwood, like Sullivan's Crossing, follows a medical professional who relocates to a small town with their child after a personal tragedy. Both shows explore themes of healing, community, and second chances, with emotional storytelling and character development at their core.

Fact: Chris Pratt's first major acting role. The show was created by Greg Berlanti, who went on to create many DC superhero shows. It was one of the first shows to film in Utah to take advantage of tax incentives.

Description: While focused on sports, this show shares with Sullivan's Crossing an authentic portrayal of small-town life and community dynamics. Both feature emotional storytelling about ordinary people facing extraordinary challenges.

Fact: Used an innovative 'no rehearsal' shooting style. The phrase 'Clear eyes, full hearts, can't lose' wasn't in the original movie. Many scenes were improvised by the actors.

Description: This period drama shares with Sullivan's Crossing a focus on strong female characters in rural settings, community bonds, and romantic storylines. Both shows offer uplifting, family-friendly storytelling with emotional depth.

Fact: Inspired by Janette Oke's book series. The show survived the sudden death of its male lead (played by Jack Wagner) by rewriting the storyline. It has one of Hallmark's most dedicated fanbases, called 'Hearties'.

Description: Chesapeake Shores shares with Sullivan's Crossing a focus on family dynamics, romantic relationships, and the beauty of small-town life. Both series feature strong female leads navigating personal and professional challenges in picturesque settings.

Fact: Based on a book series by Sherryl Woods. The show was Hallmark's first one-hour original drama series. Several cast members are real-life musicians who perform on the show.

Description: Like Sullivan's Crossing, this adaptation focuses on an outsider finding belonging in a rural community. Both shows explore themes of identity, acceptance, and the transformative power of nature and human connections.

Fact: The first Canadian series to stream on Netflix. The show expanded on social issues not in the original books. Fans launched a massive #RenewAnnewithanE campaign when it was canceled.

Description: Like Sullivan's Crossing, Hart of Dixie is a heartwarming drama set in a small, tight-knit community. Both shows explore themes of personal growth, relationships, and the challenges of adapting to a new environment. The protagonist in both series is a professional who moves to a small town, facing both professional and personal trials.

Fact: The show was created by Leila Gerstein, who also worked on Gossip Girl. The fictional town of Bluebell was inspired by real Southern towns. Rachel Bilson's character was originally written as a man.