Just when you thought you’d never recover from the emotional roller coaster that was “Normal People,” we’re here to reignite that flame. These 15 TV series masterfully explore the human condition, love, and connection, just as “Normal People” did. Get ready for a journey through raw emotions, deep connections, and mesmerizing storytelling.
“Fleabag”
Created by and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge, “Fleabag” follows a young woman navigating personal and professional disasters in London. Just like “Normal People,” it examines flawed characters grappling with emotional trauma, but does so with a sharp wit that balances its heavier themes.
“I May Destroy You”
“I May Destroy You” is a British series created by and starring Michaela Coel. It handles the subject of consent and the aftermath of sexual assault with a unique blend of drama and dark comedy. Similar to “Normal People,” it doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable realities, making it a challenging yet rewarding viewing experience.
“Euphoria”
“Euphoria,” starring Zendaya, is a brutally honest exploration of teenage life, drug addiction, and identity struggles. Its unfiltered look at intense and sometimes toxic relationships draws parallels to the darker aspects of “Normal People.”
“Big Little Lies”
“Big Little Lies” is a star-studded drama (featuring Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, and Shailene Woodley) about the seemingly perfect lives of affluent mothers unraveling to the point of murder. Like “Normal People,” it’s a deep dive into complex characters and the implications of their actions on those around them.
“The Affair”
“The Affair” uses the perspectives of its main characters (played by Dominic West and Ruth Wilson) to narrate a tale of love, loss, and deception. Much like “Normal People,” it explores the consequences of emotional decisions, making it a captivating watch.
“Sex Education”
“Sex Education,” with Asa Butterfield and Gillian Anderson leading the cast, brings a refreshing take on teenage sexuality and relationships. It shares “Normal People”‘s candid approach to sexual intimacy and the confusion that often comes with young love.
“Master of None”
“Master of None,” created by and starring Aziz Ansari, navigates the intricacies of modern relationships and personal growth. It echoes “Normal People” in its exploration of love, friendship, and the struggle to find meaningful connections.
“This is Us”
“This is Us” offers a heartwarming yet tear-jerking narrative of the Pearson family across decades. Its tender portrayal of love, loss, and life’s unpredictability parallels “Normal People”‘s beautiful depiction of ordinary life and love.
“The End of the F***ing World”
“The End of the F***ing World” follows two teenagers, James and Alyssa, on a chaotic road trip. Much like “Normal People,” it explores young love and personal growth amidst a tumultuous coming-of-age journey.
“You’re the Worst”
“You’re the Worst” features two toxic individuals attempting a relationship, making for an unconventional yet captivating portrayal of love. Its honesty and rawness resonate with “Normal People”‘s exploration of flawed characters and complex relationships.
“Modern Love”
“Modern Love” is an anthology series based on the New York Times column of the same name. Its exploration of love in its myriad forms echoes “Normal People”‘s deep dive into the multifaceted nature of relationships.
“Love”
“Love,” created by Judd Apatow, Lesley Arfin, and Paul Rust, offers a humorous yet honest look at modern relationships. Its nuanced depiction of dating, commitment, and emotional baggage ties in closely with the themes explored in “Normal People.”
“Dickinson”
“Dickinson” offers a comical take on the life of poet Emily Dickinson, portrayed by Hailee Steinfeld. Its integration of literary references and exploration of one of America’s most famous introverts is sure to captivate “Normal People” fans, particularly those drawn to the show’s intellectual depth.
“Easy”
“Easy” is an anthology series set in Chicago, focusing on a variety of characters navigating modern dating and relationships. With gripping love stories and an all-star cast, its parallels to the relationship dynamics in “Normal People” make it a worthy watch.
“Love, Victor”
A spin-off of “Love, Simon,” “Love, Victor” follows a closeted teen, Victor, on a journey of self-discovery. Its sensitive handling of teen issues, sexual orientation, and complex relationships echoes the emotional intensity and nuanced character development of “Normal People.”
“Lovesick”
“Lovesick” follows Dylan, a hopeless romantic with an unfortunate STD diagnosis that leads him to reconnect with past partners. If you appreciated the humor and honesty in “Normal People”‘s portrayal of relationships, “Lovesick” offers a similar yet uniquely offbeat take on love and personal growth.
“Feel Good”
“Feel Good,” starring Mae Martin, is a semi-autobiographical series about a non-binary comedian navigating addiction recovery and a new relationship. With its deeply flawed characters, humor, and honest take on self-growth, it resonates with “Normal People”‘s exploration of complex human connections.
“High Fidelity”
“High Fidelity,” based on Nick Hornby’s novel and featuring Zoë Kravitz as Rob, a record store owner navigating heartbreak, employs music and pop culture references to soften the blow of loss. Its exploration of dating, self-realization, and character flaws parallels the authentic, relatable character development in “Normal People.”
