Somebody somewhere: 10 shows to watch if you like the HBO tragedy series

Somebody somewhere (Image Source - HBO)
Somebody somewhere (Image Source - HBO)

HBO’s Somebody Somewhere isn’t just another comedy-drama; it’s a heartfelt exploration of what it means to feel lost and find your place. Following the story of Sam, a woman grappling with loss, identity, and small-town monotony, the series brings a refreshingly honest take on the everyday struggles and unexpected joys of life.

This is for anyone drawn to Somebody Somewhere’s blend of bittersweet humor and realistic drama and looking to explore other shows with similar vibes. Somebody Somewhere stars Bridget Everett as Sam Miller, the central character who returns to her hometown after her sister’s death and struggles to find purpose.

Jeff Hiller plays Joel, Sam’s former high school acquaintance who becomes her close friend, helping her reconnect with herself. Mary Catherine Garrison plays Tricia, Sam’s sister, who has her complexities in dealing with family dynamics and life challenges.

The series is brought to life with subtle yet impactful performances, adding to its reliability. You can stream Somebody Somewhere on HBO Max.


Top Shows Similar to Somebody Somewhere

If you’re looking for shows that echo the sentiment and authenticity of Somebody Somewhere, here are ten incredible options to consider:

1. Fleabag

Fleabag follows the story of an unnamed woman (Image Source - Prime Video)
Fleabag follows the story of an unnamed woman (Image Source - Prime Video)

Fleabag follows the story of an unnamed woman navigating life’s messy, painful, and often absurd moments in London. Known for breaking the fourth wall, she invites the audience into her mind, offering raw insight into her life’s ups and downs.

Created by and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge as Fleabag, with Sian Clifford as her sister, Claire, and Olivia Colman as her godmother. Their performances lend depth to a story about grief and self-discovery.

Fleabag is available on Amazon Prime Video.


2. Shrill

Shrill tells the story of Annie, an aspiring writer who battles with self-image, career aspirations, and relationships (Image Source - Hulu)
Shrill tells the story of Annie, an aspiring writer who battles with self-image, career aspirations, and relationships (Image Source - Hulu)

Shrill tells the story of Annie, an aspiring writer who battles with self-image, career aspirations, and relationships. As she embraces herself, she discovers a new, unapologetic confidence.

Aidy Bryant stars as Annie Easton, a relatable and resilient character who explores her journey of self-acceptance.

Shrill is available on Hulu.


3. The Kominsky Method

The Kominsky Method (Image Source - Netflix)
The Kominsky Method (Image Source - Netflix)

The Kominsky Method follows aging acting coach Sandy Kominsky and his best friend Norman as they confront the realities of getting older, dealing with loss, and rediscovering life’s purpose.

Starring Michael Douglas as Sandy Kominsky and Alan Arkin as Norman Newlander, both of whom bring humor and poignancy to their roles.

The Kominsky Method is available on Netflix.


4. Better Things

Better Things is a semi-autobiographical series about Sam (Image Source - Hulu)
Better Things is a semi-autobiographical series about Sam (Image Source - Hulu)

Better Things is a semi-autobiographical series about Sam, a single mother who juggles her career, motherhood, and dreams. She tackles each day with humor, grit, and love.

Pamela Adlon stars as Sam Fox, with Mikey Madison, Hannah Alligood, and Olivia Edward playing her daughters. Adlon’s performance adds depth to the character’s resilience.

Better Things is available on Hulu.


5. Catastrophe

one-week fling turns into a lifelong commitment after an unexpected pregnancy (Image Source - Prime Video)
one-week fling turns into a lifelong commitment after an unexpected pregnancy (Image Source - Prime Video)

Catastrophe follows Rob and Sharon, a couple whose one-week becomes a lifelong commitment after an unexpected pregnancy. Together, they navigate the complexities of marriage, parenthood, and personal challenges. It was created by and starring Rob Delaney as Rob Norris and Sharon Horgan as Sharon Morris.

Catastrophe is available on Amazon Prime Video.


6. Russian Doll

Natasha Lyonne stars as Nadia Vulvokov (Image Source - Netflix)
Natasha Lyonne stars as Nadia Vulvokov (Image Source - Netflix)

Russian Doll follows Nadia, a woman stuck in a mysterious time loop, repeatedly reliving the same. Each loop forces her to confront deeper issues and make sense of her life.

Natasha Lyonne stars as Nadia Vulvokov, who brings both wit and emotional depth to the character. Charlie Barnett also stars as Alan Zaveri, a man with his loop to break.

Russian Doll is available on Netflix.


7. Dead to Me

The friendship between Jen, a widow, and Judy, a free-spirited woman (Image Source - Netflix)
The friendship between Jen, a widow, and Judy, a free-spirited woman (Image Source - Netflix)

Dead to Me centers on the friendship between Jen, a widow, and Judy, a free-spirited woman with a dark secret. Their friendship deepens as they navigate grief, guilt, and forgiveness.

Christina Applegate stars as Jen Harding and Linda Cardellini as Judy Hale, creating a captivating dynamic with dark humor and deep emotion.

Dead to Me is available on Netflix.


8. This Way Up

Aisling Bea stars as Aine alongside Sharon Horgan (Image Source - Hulu)
Aisling Bea stars as Aine alongside Sharon Horgan (Image Source - Hulu)

This Way Up follows Aine, a woman recovering from a nervous breakdown and trying to rebuild her life. Her journey is full of setbacks but also moments of self-discovery and healing.

Aisling Bea stars as Aine alongside Sharon Horgan as her supportive sister, Shona. Bea’s portrayal brings authenticity and relatability to mental health struggles.

This Way Up is available on Hulu.


9. Enlightened

Enlightened stars Amy, a woman who has a meltdown (Image Source - HBO)
Enlightened stars Amy, a woman who has a meltdown (Image Source - HBO)

Enlightened stars Amy, a woman who has a meltdown and returns to work after undergoing a spiritual transformation. Her idealism and quest for change collide with reality in humorous and thought-provoking ways.

Cast and characters in Enlightened include Laura Dern, who stars as Amy Jellicoe, with Luke Wilson as Levi, her ex-husband, and Diane Ladd as her mother. Dern’s performance is both intense and inspiring.

Enlightened is available on HBO Max.


10. After Life

Ricky Gervais stars as Tony Johnson (Image Source - Netflix)
Ricky Gervais stars as Tony Johnson (Image Source - Netflix)

Created by Ricky Gervais, After Life follows Tony, a widower struggling to find meaning after his wife’s death. He copes through sarcasm, dark humor, and occasional kindness, discovering unexpected connections along the way.

Ricky Gervais stars as Tony Johnson, a man whose grief drives both despair and resilience. His performance highlights the delicate balance between pain and hope.

After Life is available on Netflix.

If you were captivated by Somebody Somewhere, these shows will provide a similar blend of humor, honesty, and depth. Each series offers a different take on life’s complexities, from mental health to relationships, ensure’s something here for every fan of tragicomic storytelling.


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Edited by Priscillah Mueni