10 Shows and Movies Like ‘Normal People’ (2020)

Description: This series shares with 'Normal People' an unflinching examination of trauma, consent, and relationships among young adults. Both shows use intimate storytelling to explore complex emotional landscapes with honesty and sensitivity.

Fact: Michaela Coel created, wrote, co-directed, and starred in the series. The show was inspired by Coel's own experience of sexual assault. It was filmed in London, with many scenes shot in Coel's actual apartment.

Description: Similar to 'Normal People', 'Conversations with Friends' is based on a novel by Sally Rooney and explores complex relationships, intimacy, and emotional vulnerability. Both series feature nuanced character development and a focus on the intricacies of human connection.

Fact: The series was also directed by Lenny Abrahamson, who co-directed 'Normal People'. It stars newcomer Alison Oliver alongside established actors like Joe Alwyn and Jemima Kirke. The show was filmed in Dublin and Belfast, maintaining the Irish setting of Rooney's work.

Description: This Australian series shares with 'Normal People' an honest, sometimes painful portrayal of young adulthood and relationships. Both shows blend humor with emotional depth while exploring themes of mental health and sexual identity.

Fact: Created by and starring comedian Josh Thomas. Many storylines were inspired by Thomas's own life experiences. The show was praised for its authentic portrayal of mental health issues.

Description: Similar to 'Normal People', 'Looking' offers a nuanced, intimate portrayal of relationships and personal identity. Both shows feature quiet, observational storytelling that captures the subtleties of human connection.

Fact: The show was praised for its authentic portrayal of gay relationships. A movie special was made to conclude the series after its cancellation. Many scenes were improvised by the actors.

Description: Similar to 'Normal People', 'Lovesick' explores the complexities of modern relationships with humor and heart. Both shows feature non-linear storytelling that reveals the depth of connections between characters over time.

Fact: Originally titled 'Scrotal Recall' before being renamed. Each episode focuses on a different romantic encounter from the protagonist's past. The show was unexpectedly canceled after three seasons despite critical acclaim.

Description: Like 'Normal People', 'Catastrophe' presents a realistic, often messy portrayal of relationships. Both shows feature intelligent writing that explores the complexities of intimacy with both humor and emotional honesty.

Fact: Co-creators and stars Sharon Horgan and Rob Delaney wrote much of the dialogue together via email. The show was inspired by Delaney's real-life experience of meeting his wife. Carrie Fisher appeared in her final acting role in this series.

Description: This series shares with 'Normal People' an exploration of sexual awakening and personal growth, though with a much more comedic tone. Both shows feature young protagonists navigating relationships and identity in contemporary settings.

Fact: Created by and starring Michaela Coel before 'I May Destroy You'. Inspired by Coel's play 'Chewing Gum Dreams'. The entire first season was filmed in just 19 days.

Description: Like 'Normal People', 'Fleabag' offers an intimate, often painful portrayal of modern relationships and personal growth. Both shows feature flawed protagonists whose inner monologues reveal their vulnerabilities, with a similar blend of humor and heartbreak.

Fact: Phoebe Waller-Bridge wrote and starred in the entire series. The famous 'hot priest' character wasn't originally intended to be a love interest. The breaking of the fourth wall was inspired by Waller-Bridge's one-woman stage show.

Description: This series shares with 'Normal People' a raw, unfiltered look at young love and emotional turmoil. Both shows feature protagonists navigating complex relationships while dealing with personal trauma, presented with a mix of dark humor and poignant realism.

Fact: Based on a graphic novel by Charles Forsman. The two lead actors had never met before filming began. Each episode is exactly 20 minutes long, creating a distinctive pacing.

Description: This series shares with 'Normal People' a focus on romantic relationships examined through the lens of personal growth. Both feature protagonists who frequently analyze their own emotions and relationships with a mix of humor and melancholy.

Fact: A gender-swapped remake of the 2000 film. Zoë Kravitz is the stepdaughter of Lenny Kravitz, who appeared in the original film. The show was canceled after one season despite positive reviews.