10 Movies and Shows Similar to Will & Grace (1998)

Description: Both 'Cheers' and 'Will & Grace' are ensemble comedies set around a central gathering place (a bar vs. an apartment). They feature memorable characters whose relationships evolve over time, blending humor with emotional moments. The shows share a similar warmth and longevity.

Fact: The show was almost canceled after its first season due to low ratings. The bar's design was based on a real Boston pub. The theme song became so popular it was released as a single.

Description: Like 'Will & Grace', 'The Golden Girls' features sharp, witty dialogue and explores themes of friendship and love with humor and heart. Both shows were groundbreaking in their portrayal of unconventional living arrangements and featured strong, independent characters.

Fact: Bea Arthur and Betty White initially didn't get along. The house exterior is the same as 'Empty Nest'. It was the first show to feature all female leads over

Description: Both 'Seinfeld' and 'Will & Grace' are New York-based sitcoms known for their sharp, observational humor about everyday life. While 'Seinfeld' is more cynical, both shows feature tight friend groups and explore the absurdities of modern relationships and social norms.

Fact: The show was originally called 'The Seinfeld Chronicles'. The 'Soup Nazi' was based on a real New York soup vendor. Jerry Seinfeld turned down $5 million per episode to continue the show.

Description: Like 'Will & Grace', 'Frasier' features sophisticated humor and witty dialogue, often centered around neurotic but lovable characters. Both shows balance comedy with emotional depth and explore themes of family and relationships. The highbrow humor and strong ensemble cast are key similarities.

Fact: It's one of the few spin-offs to surpass the popularity of its parent show ('Cheers'). Kelsey Grammer holds the record for longest time playing the same character on TV (20 years). The show's apartment was based on a real Seattle hotel.

Description: Like 'Will & Grace', 'Friends' is a quintessential sitcom that revolves around a tight-knit group of friends navigating life, love, and careers in a big city (New York). Both shows feature a mix of humor, heartfelt moments, and a strong emphasis on friendship dynamics. The witty banter and comedic timing in both series are standout features.

Fact: The show was originally titled 'Insomnia Cafe'. The iconic fountain in the opening credits was not part of the original plan; the cast just happened to be playing in it during a break. Jennifer Aniston almost didn't play Rachel due to another commitment.

Description: Both 'Sex and the City' and 'Will & Grace' are iconic New York-based shows that explore modern relationships with humor and candor. They feature strong, independent characters navigating love and life in the city, with a mix of comedy and drama. The shows also share a similar urban sophistication in their storytelling.

Fact: The character of Carrie Bradshaw was inspired by writer Candace Bushnell's own column. Sarah Jessica Parker initially turned down the role three times. The famous tutu in the opening credits cost just $

Description: This show shares with 'Will & Grace' a focus on unconventional living arrangements and the humor that arises from them. Both feature strong comedic performances and explore themes of friendship and family, though 'Two and a Half Men' tends toward more raunchy humor.

Fact: Charlie Sheen was the highest-paid actor on TV at the show's peak. The house used in exterior shots is a real Malibu property. The show's theme song was written and performed by its creator, Chuck Lorre.

Description: Like 'Will & Grace', '30 Rock' features fast-paced, witty dialogue and a mix of absurd and relatable humor. Both shows are set in New York and explore workplace dynamics alongside personal relationships. The shows share a similar urban sensibility and comedic style.

Fact: Tracy Morgan ad-libbed many of his character's craziest lines. The show's title refers to 30 Rockefeller Plaza. Alec Baldwin initially only signed on for six episodes.

Description: This show shares with 'Will & Grace' a focus on quirky, well-defined characters and their interpersonal relationships. Both series blend humor with emotional depth, often exploring themes of acceptance and the challenges of modern life. The ensemble cast chemistry is a key similarity.

Fact: The show's original title was 'Lenny, Penny and Kenny'. The theme song is by the Barenaked Ladies, who wrote it in under an hour. Mayim Bialik (Amy) holds a PhD in neuroscience in real life.

Description: Like 'Will & Grace', 'Modern Family' uses a mockumentary style to explore diverse family dynamics with humor and heart. Both shows broke ground in portraying LGBTQ+ characters in mainstream television, with Mitch and Cam's relationship being a central focus similar to Will's character.

Fact: The show was inspired by co-creator Christopher Lloyd's own large, blended family. The famous 'closet scene' with Phil and Luke was improvised. It was the first comedy to win the Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series in its first season.