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Must-Watch TV Shows for Fans of "Mad Men"

Published by Likewise | Mar 23, 2025Discover a curated list of compelling TV shows that echo the themes and captivating storytelling found in "Mad Men".

As the world of television continues to evolve, few series have left as indelible a mark as "Mad Men", with its intricate exploration of advertising, identity, and societal change during the 1960s. For those seeking to uncover more narratives filled with similar rich character development and compelling storylines, here is a list of ten must-watch shows that capture the same essence and drama that made "Mad Men" an iconic series.

The Sopranos

The Sopranos
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This groundbreaking series follows the life of New Jersey-based Italian-American mobster Tony Soprano as he navigates the challenges of balancing family dynamics and the pressures of leadership within a criminal organization. His complex relationship with psychiatrist Jennifer Melfi exposes not just the criminal underbelly of America but also the personal struggles of a man caught between two worlds. With an average rating of 4.8, "The Sopranos" remains a benchmark for storytelling in modern television. Learn more.

The Wire

The Wire
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Delving deep into the complexities of urban life, "The Wire" presents the intertwined stories of Baltimore homicide detectives and drug dealers. This masterful series intricately depicts how the national war on drugs has evolved into an entrenched bureaucracy, blurring the lines between morality and criminality. With stunning storytelling acknowledged by an average rating of 4.8, it offers a powerful commentary on society's failures. Discover more.

Shrinking

Shrinking
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This fresh and emotionally charged series follows Jimmy, a therapist struggling with grief while navigating his roles as a father and friend. In a radical shift, he embraces brutal honesty with everyone in his life, leading to a series of heartwarming and tumultuous interactions. With an average rating of 4.7, "Shrinking" brings a unique blend of humor and pathos. Check it out here.

House of Cards

House of Cards
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In the ruthless political landscape of Washington D.C., Frank Underwood and his wife Claire orchestrate a cunning plan for power and domination. "House of Cards" explores themes of ambition, manipulation, and betrayal, wrapped in a shocking narrative steeped in political intrigue. With a solid average rating of 4.5, the series showcases the dark undercurrents of American politics. Learn more here.

The Americans

The Americans
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Set against the backdrop of the Cold War, "The Americans" revolves around Elizabeth and Philip Jennings, two KGB spies embedded in suburban America. Their dual lives create a taut narrative exploring loyalty, love, and betrayal. This series earned an average rating of 4.4, harmonizing thrilling espionage with poignant family dynamics. Explore further.

Ozark

Ozark
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When financial adviser Marty Byrde relocates his family to the Missouri Ozarks to launder $500 million in drug money, the stakes couldn't be higher. "Ozark" intricately blends tension with family drama, showcasing how desperation drives people to their limits. Receiving an average rating of 4.3, the series offers a gripping look at moral dilemmas in a perilous world. Find out more.

Better Call Saul

Better Call Saul
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Preceding the events of "Breaking Bad", "Better Call Saul" explores the transformation of Jimmy McGill into the morally flexible lawyer Saul Goodman. The series intricately weaves humor and drama while exploring themes of identity and ambition. With an average rating of 4.3, it chronicles the consequences of choices made in the pursuit of success. More information here.

Boss

Boss
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Kelsey Grammer stars in "Boss", portraying a powerful Chicago mayor grappling with a dementia diagnosis while trying to maintain his grip on power. The show intricately unfolds the political landscape, exploring the cost of ambition and control. Garnering an average rating of 4.3, "Boss" highlights the intersections of personal and political turbulence. Learn more.

Halt and Catch Fire

Halt and Catch Fire
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Set against the revolutionary backdrop of the 1980s PC era, "Halt and Catch Fire" follows a visionary, an engineer, and a prodigy as they race to change the computer world. The series navigates ambition, personal relationships, and the quest for innovation, earning an average rating of 4.3. This inspiring tale of collaboration and competition is a must-watch for tech enthusiasts. Discover more here.

Justified

Justified
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Based on Elmore Leonard's short story, "Justified" features U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens, whose methods might be unconventional but are effective. His personal and professional life intertwines with his backstory filled with family tension and moral dilemmas. With a solid average rating of 4.2, it’s an engaging character study wrapped in crime drama. Learn more about it.

In conclusion, these series not only resonate with the thematic depth found in "Mad Men" but also stand on their own, offering captivating narratives and complex characters. Whether you are drawn to the intrigue of politics, the nuances of personal relationships, or the harsh realities of crime, each of these shows provides a unique lens through which to view society's complexities. Dive into these compelling narratives and explore the intricacies of human experience through exceptional storytelling.

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