As a TV enthusiast, there’s nothing worse than having to bid farewell to a beloved show. Shameless fans experienced this heartache when the American adaptation concluded in 2021 after a decade-long run. Although it had a good innings, many viewers weren’t prepared to let go. While there won’t be any new episodes of Shameless, there are other captivating shows that can help fill the void. These series may not be identical to Shameless, but they share many of its endearing qualities and will have you hooked from the get-go. Here are five shows to watch if you loved Shameless.
1. Animal Kingdom
You might have considered the Gallaghers as the most dysfunctional family on TV, but the Codys give them a run for their money. Animal Kingdom revolves around a teenager named Joshua Cody who moves in with his relatives after his mother’s death. However, this is far from a typical family environment. The Codys are a crime family led by their matriarch Janin Code (Ellen Barkin). While Animal Kingdom lacks the comedic relief of Shameless, it’s packed with drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The series is even more intriguing because it’s inspired by real-life events, drawing on the notorious Pettingill family of Australia.
2. Maid
Launched in 2021, Maid is a Netflix original that follows Alex, a young mother who escapes an abusive relationship and becomes a maid to support herself and her daughter. However, Alex’s life is far more complicated than it appears. She grapples with periods of houselessness, a virtually non-existent support system, a mother with an undiagnosed mental illness, and a strained relationship with her father. Although Maid tackles some heavy subjects and can be difficult to watch, it offers a fascinating insight into poverty, dysfunction, and relationship dynamics. The only downside is that Maid is a mini-series with just one season.
3. United States of Tara
United States of Tara, like Shameless, was a Showtime series that masterfully blended comedy and drama. The show centers on Tara (Toni Collette), a woman with dissociative identity disorder. Despite starting medication for her condition, the side effects hinder her ability to enjoy daily life. With her doctor’s approval, she stops taking the medication, causing her multiple personalities to resurface. Throughout the series, viewers meet several distinct identities. Although it only lasted three seasons, United States of Tara received mostly positive reviews and is well worth a watch for Shameless fans.
4. It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia
It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia is a show that will make you laugh and cringe simultaneously. The series follows a group of friends who own a struggling bar in South Philadelphia. The characters are trapped in a seemingly endless cycle of poor decisions, and despite their friendship, they often try to manipulate one another, leading to tense moments. The good news is that It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia has 14 seasons, providing plenty of episodes for you to binge.
5. Succession
If you’re a fan of family drama, you’ll undoubtedly love Succession. The series, which premiered in 2018, tells the story of the wealthy Roy family. When the family’s patriarch falls ill, his children begin vying for control of the company after his death. Succession is a tale of greed and betrayal that will draw you in from the start. The show is currently in its third season and has already been renewed for a fourth.
Bonus
The U.K. Version of Shameless
For those unaware, the American version of Shameless was based on a British series with the same name. Both shows share a similar premise, but there are some differences in the UK version that make it worth watching if you’re a fan of the Showtime series. The UK version ran for 11 seasons, providing plenty of episodes for you to catch up on.
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