10 Shows & Movies Similar to Bookie (2023)

Description: Both 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' and 'Bookie' feature protagonists who are their own worst enemies, navigating social and professional faux pas. The shows share an improvisational style and a dark, cringe-inducing humor.

Fact: The show is largely unscripted, with actors given plot outlines. Larry David stars as a fictionalized version of himself. It has been praised for its realistic depiction of social awkwardness.

Description: Like 'Bookie', 'Entourage' explores the high-stakes, often chaotic world of entertainment and personal relationships. Both shows blend comedy with drama, focusing on the lives of people navigating fame, money, and loyalty. The fast-paced, witty dialogue and behind-the-scenes look at the industry are key similarities.

Fact: 'Entourage' was loosely based on Mark Wahlberg's experiences in Hollywood. The show popularized the term 'hug it out' in pop culture. Jeremy Piven's performance as Ari Gold earned him three Emmy Awards.

Description: 'Weeds' and 'Bookie' both explore the intersection of crime and comedy, with protagonists operating in illegal markets (drugs and gambling). Both shows balance humor with the tension of their leads' precarious situations, featuring strong, morally ambiguous characters.

Fact: 'Weeds' was one of Showtime's first successful original series. The theme song, 'Little Boxes', was covered by various artists each season. Mary-Louise Parker's performance earned her a Golden Globe.

Description: Like 'Bookie', 'It's Always Sunny' features a group of morally questionable characters engaging in schemes and misadventures. Both shows blend dark humor with absurd situations, and neither shies away from controversial topics.

Fact: The show was originally rejected by several networks before FX picked it up. It's one of the longest-running live-action sitcoms in the U.S. The gang's bar, Paddy's Pub, is based on a real Philadelphia dive bar.

Description: Both 'Eastbound & Down' and 'Bookie' feature antiheroes trying to reclaim their glory days, mixing dark humor with heartfelt moments. The shows share a similar tone of irreverence and satire towards their respective worlds (sports and gambling).

Fact: Danny McBride co-created and starred in the series. The show was inspired by McBride's love of 1970s sports movies. It was filmed in various locations to mimic the protagonist's journey.

Description: Both 'Californication' and 'Bookie' feature flawed, charismatic leads navigating the seedy underbelly of their respective worlds (writing and gambling). The shows share a mix of raunchy humor, emotional depth, and a critique of their industries.

Fact: David Duchovny won a Golden Globe for his role as Hank Moody. The show's title is a play on words, referencing both the state and a Red Hot Chili Peppers album. It originally aired on Showtime, known for its edgy content.

Description: Like 'Bookie', 'The League' centers around the world of sports and gambling, albeit in a more comedic, less dramatic fashion. Both shows highlight the absurdities and obsessions of their characters, with a focus on camaraderie and competition.

Fact: The show was largely improvised by its cast. It featured numerous cameos from real NFL players and personalities. The series finale was a crossover with 'Always Sunny in Philadelphia'.

Description: 'Silicon Valley' and 'Bookie' both offer a satirical look at high-pressure industries (tech and gambling), with a focus on the eccentric personalities that inhabit them. The shows share a sharp, witty humor and a critique of their respective worlds' excesses.

Fact: The show was created by Mike Judge, of 'Beavis and Butt-Head' fame. Many tech industry figures praised its accuracy. The 'Hooli' company in the show is a parody of real tech giants.

Description: 'Ballers' shares with 'Bookie' a focus on the world of sports betting and the personal dramas of those involved. Both shows mix humor with the darker sides of the industry, featuring charismatic leads who navigate moral ambiguities. The glitzy, high-energy settings are also a common thread.

Fact: Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson starred in and produced 'Ballers'. The show was initially compared to 'Entourage' but set in the NFL world. Several real-life NFL players made cameo appearances throughout the series.

Description: This show, like 'Bookie', delves into the world of high-stakes gambling and the underworld elements that come with it. Both feature protagonists who are deeply embedded in risky, morally complex situations, blending action with dark comedy.

Fact: 'The Player' starred Wesley Snipes and Philip Winchester. The show was created by the same team behind 'The Blacklist'. It was canceled after one season despite a strong premise.