10 Shows & Movies Like Cheers (1982)

Description: While more cynical than Cheers, Seinfeld shares its focus on social interactions in a specific New York setting (Monk's Cafe replacing the bar). Both shows feature stand-up comedian influences in their humor and revolve around characters navigating dating and friendships. The way minor characters recur and become part of the show's fabric is similar to Cheers' approach with its bar regulars.

Fact: The 'Soup Nazi' was based on a real New York soup vendor. The show was originally called 'The Seinfeld Chronicles'. Elaine was originally written as a one-time love interest for Jerry.

Description: Frasier is a direct spin-off from Cheers, featuring the character Dr. Frasier Crane as he moves to Seattle to start a new life. Like Cheers, it revolves around a tight-knit group of characters in a specific setting (a radio station and Frasier's apartment), blending sophisticated humor with heartfelt moments. The show maintains the witty, dialogue-driven comedy that made Cheers a hit, while exploring themes of family, relationships, and personal growth.

Fact: Frasier won a record 37 Primetime Emmy Awards during its run, surpassing Cheers' own impressive tally. Kelsey Grammer played Frasier Crane for 20 consecutive years across Cheers and Frasier, one of the longest continuous portrayals of a single character in TV history. The show's famous tossed salad and scrambled eggs theme song was written by Bruce Miller, who also composed Cheers' theme.

Description: Friends shares Cheers' focus on a close group of friends who become like family, gathering regularly in a central location (Central Perk instead of a bar). Both shows balance humor with emotional depth, featuring will-they-won't-they romantic tensions (like Sam and Diane/Ross and Rachel) and character-driven storylines. The ensemble cast chemistry and workplace-meets-personal-life dynamic are also similar.

Fact: The famous orange couch in Central Perk was found in the Warner Bros. basement. The show was originally going to be called 'Insomnia Cafe'. Bruce Willis guest starred for free after losing a bet to Matthew Perry.

Description: This groundbreaking sitcom shares Cheers' sharp wit and focus on romantic and friendship dynamics, with a bar (Grace's apartment) serving as the central gathering place. Both shows feature strong female leads (Grace/Diane) and explore will-they-won't-they relationships. The way it blends topical humor with character-driven stories is similar to Cheers' approach.

Fact: It was the first show with gay leads since the 1970s. The role of Jack was written specifically for Sean Hayes. The show's revival was prompted by its positive portrayal during the 2016 election.

Description: While more surreal than Cheers, 30 Rock shares its workplace comedy roots and rapid-fire joke delivery. Both shows feature strong, career-driven female leads (Liz Lemon/Diane) navigating professional and personal challenges. The ensemble cast and the way minor characters become fan favorites (like Kenneth replacing Cheers' Norm and Cliff) show similar character development approaches.

Fact: Tracy Morgan ad-libbed many of his craziest lines. The show's title refers to 30 Rockefeller Plaza where SNL films. Alec Baldwin initially turned down the role of Jack Donaghy three times.

Description: Like Cheers, TBBT features a tight friend group centered around a hangout spot (the apartment instead of a bar), with nerdy humor replacing Cheers' more everyman comedy. Both shows balance relationship humor with character growth, and feature will-they-won't-they romances (Leonard and Penny). The way supporting characters like Stuart become regulars mirrors how Cheers integrated characters like Carla and Cliff.

Fact: The theme song is by the Barenaked Ladies. Mayim Bialik (Amy) has a real PhD in neuroscience. The apartment numbers (4A and 4B) reference the show's timeslot (4A=AM, 4B=PM).

Description: Like Cheers, Parks and Rec features a workplace ensemble with quirky but lovable characters who form a makeshift family. Both shows excel at blending absurd humor with genuine warmth, and feature strong female leads (Leslie Knope and Diane Chambers) navigating professional and personal challenges. The documentary-style format gives it a different feel, but the community spirit and character growth are reminiscent of Cheers.

Fact: The character of Ron Swanson was inspired by a real libertarian city official. Amy Poehler was pregnant during season 2, written into the show with Leslie's food obsession. The show's fictional town name Pawnee comes from a real extinct Native American tribe.

Description: This mockumentary shares Cheers' emphasis on family (both biological and chosen) and blends humor with heartfelt moments. Like Cheers, it features multiple generations and relationship dynamics, with characters who are flawed but lovable. The way it balances multiple storylines while maintaining an ensemble feel is reminiscent of how Cheers juggled its large cast.

Fact: The actors playing Haley and Alex are sisters in real life. Ed O'Neill (Jay) was originally considered for the role of Sam Malone in Cheers. The show's documentary style was inspired by The Office and Parks and Rec.

Description: New Girl's loft setting serves a similar function to Cheers' bar - a home base where quirky characters interact and form close bonds. Both shows feature a will-they-won't-they central romance (Nick and Jess/Sam and Diane) and blend physical comedy with witty dialogue. The ensemble's chemistry and the way new characters are integrated into the group dynamic are particularly reminiscent of Cheers.

Fact: Zooey Deschanel was pregnant during season 3, hidden with props and camera angles. Prince was a fan and requested to guest star in a memorable episode. The show's original title was 'Chicks and Dicks'.

Description: This police comedy shares Cheers' workplace-as-family dynamic, with the precinct replacing the bar as the central gathering place. Both shows feature a mix of goofy and more serious characters who play off each other well, with romantic tensions (like Jake and Amy echoing Sam and Diane) and running gags. The balance between procedural elements and character comedy is similar to how Cheers mixed bar stories with personal arcs.

Fact: Andre Braugher (Captain Holt) had never done comedy before this role. The Halloween heist episodes became an annual tradition. The show was canceled by Fox after 5 seasons but revived by NBC due to fan outcry.