10 Shows Like UnREAL (2015) You’ll Love

Description: A period drama set in the competitive world of advertising, focusing on complex characters, workplace dynamics, and the manipulation of public perception, much like the behind-the-scenes machinations of reality TV.

Fact: Mad Men was praised for its meticulous attention to historical detail and its exploration of 1960s social issues. The show won numerous awards, including multiple Emmys for Outstanding Drama Series.

Description: A legal thriller that delves into the dark side of ambition and power, featuring complex characters who manipulate and deceive to get what they want, much like the behind-the-scenes world of reality TV.

Fact: Damages was known for its non-linear storytelling and intricate plot twists. The show received critical acclaim for its writing and performances, particularly Glenn Close's portrayal of the ruthless lawyer Patty Hewes.

Description: A legal and political drama that explores themes of power, betrayal, and redemption, with a strong focus on the personal and professional struggles of its characters, similar to the intense and manipulative world of reality TV production.

Fact: The Good Wife was praised for its strong female lead and its realistic portrayal of the legal system. The show spawned a successful spin-off, 'The Good Fight.'

Description: A legal drama that revolves around power plays, personal relationships, and high-stakes negotiations, similar to the intense and manipulative environment of reality TV production.

Fact: Suits was originally intended to be set in the world of investment banking, but the creators changed it to law to avoid comparisons to other financial dramas. The show gained a massive following for its sharp dialogue and charismatic characters.

Description: This series follows a team of management consultants who use manipulation and deceit to get ahead, reflecting the morally ambiguous and cutthroat nature of reality TV production.

Fact: The show is based on the book 'House of Lies: How Management Consultants Steal Your Watch and Then Tell You the Time' by Martin Kihn. It features a unique narrative style with frequent breaking of the fourth wall.

Description: A high-stakes drama centered around crisis management and political intrigue, featuring sharp dialogue, power struggles, and morally ambiguous characters, similar to the cutthroat world of reality TV production.

Fact: Scandal was the first network drama in 37 years to feature an African-American woman as the lead. The show's creator, Shonda Rhimes, is known for her strong female characters and fast-paced storytelling.

Description: This series delves into the inner workings of a newsroom, showcasing the ethical dilemmas, personal conflicts, and high-pressure environment that mirror the manipulative and intense atmosphere of reality TV production.

Fact: The show was created by Aaron Sorkin, known for his rapid-fire dialogue and idealistic portrayals of professional environments. Many episodes were inspired by real-life news events.

Description: A high-stakes drama about power, wealth, and manipulation, featuring complex characters who engage in psychological warfare, much like the behind-the-scenes machinations of reality TV.

Fact: Billions was inspired by real-life financial scandals and the lives of prominent hedge fund managers. The show is known for its intricate plotting and detailed portrayal of high finance.

Description: A spin-off of 'The Good Wife,' this series continues to explore themes of power, corruption, and personal integrity in the legal world, with a focus on strong female characters and high-stakes drama, similar to the intense and manipulative environment of reality TV production.

Fact: The Good Fight was one of the first original series produced for CBS All Access (now Paramount+). The show is known for its timely political commentary and bold storytelling.

Description: This series explores the behind-the-scenes dynamics of a women's magazine, focusing on ambition, workplace politics, and personal relationships, much like the intense and manipulative environment of a reality TV show production.

Fact: The show was inspired by the life of Joanna Coles, the former editor-in-chief of Cosmopolitan magazine. It was praised for its feminist themes and portrayal of female friendships.