If you loved 'The Comeback' (2005) for its sharp satire, behind-the-scenes Hollywood drama, and Lisa Kudrow's brilliant performance, you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and TV shows that capture the same mix of humor, cringe-worthy moments, and biting commentary on fame and the entertainment industry. Whether you're a fan of mockumentaries, dark comedies, or shows about the highs and lows of showbiz, this list has something for you.

The Larry Sanders Show (1992)
Description: 'The Larry Sanders Show' is a precursor to 'The Comeback', offering a satirical look at the behind-the-scenes chaos of a late-night talk show. Both shows use a mockumentary style to explore the egos and insecurities of television personalities, with a focus on the protagonist's struggle to maintain their public image.
Fact: 'The Larry Sanders Show' starred Garry Shandling, who also co-created the series. It is often cited as one of the greatest TV shows of all time. The show was known for its celebrity guest stars playing exaggerated versions of themselves.


Curb Your Enthusiasm (2000)
Description: Like 'The Comeback', 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' is a cringe comedy that explores the awkwardness of show business and the entertainment industry. Both shows feature protagonists who are out of touch with the industry's current trends, leading to humorous and uncomfortable situations. The shows also share a mockumentary style, with 'Curb' using improvisation to enhance its realism, similar to 'The Comeback's' faux-reality TV format.
Fact: 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' was created by Larry David, the co-creator of 'Seinfeld'. The show is largely improvised, with only a basic outline for each episode. It has won multiple Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series.


Entourage (2004)
Description: 'Entourage' and 'The Comeback' both delve into the Hollywood entertainment industry, but from different angles. While 'Entourage' follows the glamorous rise of a young actor and his friends, 'The Comeback' focuses on the struggles of a fading star. Both shows, however, highlight the fickleness of fame and the importance of image in show business.
Fact: 'Entourage' was loosely based on Mark Wahlberg's experiences in Hollywood. The show spawned a successful movie sequel in


30 Rock (2006)
Description: '30 Rock' and 'The Comeback' both provide a behind-the-scenes look at the television industry, with '30 Rock' focusing on the making of a sketch comedy show. Both series use humor to critique the industry's superficiality and the challenges faced by women in entertainment. Tina Fey's Liz Lemon and Lisa Kudrow's Valerie Cherish are both strong female leads navigating a male-dominated world.
Fact: '30 Rock' is loosely based on Tina Fey's experiences as head writer for 'Saturday Night Live'. The show won multiple Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series three times. Alec Baldwin's character, Jack Donaghy, was initially intended to be a minor role but became a central figure due to Baldwin's performance.


Hacks (2021)
Description: 'Hacks' and 'The Comeback' both center on women in comedy facing the challenges of aging in an industry that values youth. Both shows explore themes of reinvention and resilience, with 'Hacks' focusing on a legendary comedian mentoring a young writer, and 'The Comeback' following an actress trying to reclaim her spotlight.
Fact: 'Hacks' stars Jean Smart as Deborah Vance, a veteran comedian. The show has won multiple Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for Smart. It was created by Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs, and Jen Statsky, all veterans of 'Broad City' and 'The Good Place'.


Episodes (2011)
Description: 'Episodes' shares with 'The Comeback' a satirical look at the Hollywood television industry, particularly the process of adapting a British show for American audiences. Both series highlight the absurdities and egos involved in TV production, with 'Episodes' focusing more on the creative and business sides, while 'The Comeback' delves into the personal and public image of its protagonist.
Fact: 'Episodes' stars Matt LeBlanc as a fictionalized version of himself. The show was created by David Crane, co-creator of 'Friends', and Jeffrey Klarik. It won a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Comedy Series for Matt LeBlanc.


UnREAL (2015)
Description: While 'UnREAL' is a drama and 'The Comeback' is a comedy, both shows peel back the curtain on reality TV, revealing the manipulation and emotional toll behind the scenes. 'UnREAL' takes a darker approach, but like 'The Comeback', it explores themes of authenticity, performance, and the cost of fame in the reality TV genre.
Fact: 'UnREAL' was created by Marti Noxon, who also worked on 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer'. The show is inspired by the creator's experiences working on 'The Bachelor'. It was critically acclaimed for its sharp writing and complex female characters.


Better Things (2016)
Description: 'Better Things' and 'The Comeback' both feature complex female protagonists navigating their careers and personal lives in the entertainment industry. Both shows are deeply personal, with 'Better Things' drawing from Pamela Adlon's own experiences as a single mother and actress, much like 'The Comeback's' semi-autobiographical elements.
Fact: 'Better Things' was co-created by Pamela Adlon and Louis C.K. The show is semi-autobiographical, with Adlon playing a version of herself. It has been praised for its realistic portrayal of motherhood and aging in Hollywood.


Barry (2018)
Description: 'Barry' and 'The Comeback' both explore the theme of identity and performance, with 'Barry' focusing on a hitman trying to become an actor, and 'The Comeback' following an actress trying to revive her career. Both shows blend comedy with darker elements, examining the lengths people go to for success in Hollywood.
Fact: 'Barry' was created by and stars Bill Hader. The show has won multiple Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series for Hader. It is known for its unique tone, combining humor with intense drama.


The Other Two (2019)
Description: 'The Other Two' and 'The Comeback' both satirize the entertainment industry, with 'The Other Two' focusing on the siblings of a sudden teen internet sensation. Both shows use humor to critique fame, social media, and the absurdity of show business, with a sharp eye for the industry's ever-changing landscape.
Fact: 'The Other Two' was created by former 'Saturday Night Live' writers Chris Kelly and Sarah Schneider. The show originally aired on Comedy Central before moving to HBO Max. It has been praised for its witty writing and timely commentary on fame.
