If you’re a fan of BoJack Horseman and craving shows that delve into similar storytelling styles and themes, we have just curated a list for you. These thoughtfully crafted series capture the essence of BoJack Horseman by exploring the unique brilliance of the Horseman’s own while offering poignant reflections on human nature, identity, and life. Get ready to dive into these shows that will take you on emotional roller coasters.
1. Rick and Morty (2013)
The show, created by Dan Harmon and Justin Roiland, is an animated sci-fi sitcom that follows the adventures of Rick Sanchez, a mad scientist, and his grandson Morty as they travel through different dimensions and parallel universes. The show is known for its dark humor and satirical take on complex philosophical themes and pop culture.
Viewers are able to connect with the imperfect and relatable characters in both shows. Both series address subjects such as mental well-being, dependency, and the purpose of existence by employing absurdity and satire. Fans of Bojack Horseman may find enjoyment in Rick and Morty due to their comparable method of delving into profound themes while utilizing humor.
2. Inside Job (2021)
The animated series “Job Inside” is created by Alex Hirsch for Netflix. The show follows the story of Ridley, a cynical but brilliant scientist named Reagan who works for an agency called the Unexplained Phenomena Department (DUP). Ridley must navigate the absurd situations and complex politics that arise in her line of work, as the agency is responsible for covering up conspiracies and supernatural occurrences that destabilize the world.
The show The Horseman Bojack shares similarities with its use of satirical and dark humor in taking on contemporary issues. Both shows feature flawed protagonists who struggle with personal demons and societal pressures, explore themes of mental health and addiction, and subvert audience expectations by using clever writing and visual gags to highlight the absurdities of the world around us.
3. Undone (2019)
Undone is a critically acclaimed animated series that explores the mind-bending journey of Alma, a young woman who gains the ability to manipulate time after experiencing near-death. The show combines a unique visual style, blending hand-drawn intricate backgrounds with rotoscoping animation, to create a dreamlike world that blurs the line between illusion and reality.
Undone also offers a unique narrative structure similar to Bojack Horseman’s nonlinear storytelling. Both shows share a similar dark humor and use animation to delve into the emotional turmoil of their characters. Fans of Bojack Horseman would enjoy Undone for its exploration of complex themes such as mental illness, family dynamics, and self-discovery.
4. Tuca and Bertie (2019)
Bertie & Tuca is an animated comedy series that revolves around the lives of two bird friends, Bertie and Tuca, who navigate their way through the ups and downs of adulthood. The show explores themes such as feminism, mental health, sexuality, career, and friendship, showcasing the colorful and eccentric characters.
Fans of Bojack Horseman would enjoy Bertie & Tuca, as it shares a similar visual style and humor, while also tackling serious issues, delivering emotional moments and laughs. It is an animated series created by the same team.
7. The Good Place (2016)
The Good Place is a TV comedy-fantasy series that follows the afterlife journey of Eleanor Shellstrop, a morally challenged woman (played by Kristen Bell) who mistakenly finds herself admitted to The Good Place after her death. With the help of her soulmate Chidi and her new friends Jason and Tahani, Eleanor tries to become a better person in order to avoid being sent to a Good Place.
Fans of the critically acclaimed animated series Bojack Horseman may enjoy another similarly acclaimed series, The Good Place, which deals with complex questions about human condition, identity, morality, and also utilizes imaginative and surreal elements to create a unique viewing experience. Both shows blend emotional depth and humor, as well as explore existential and philosophical themes.
8. Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995)
Evangelion Genesis Neon is an anime series that follows the story of a young boy named Ikari Shinji, who is recruited as a pilot to fight mysterious creatures known as Angels using a giant bio-machine called Evangelion. As the series progresses, it delves into complex themes such as the effects of trauma and the nature of consciousness, portraying the human condition.
The utilization of storytelling in this series permits a heightened level of inventiveness and liberty, employing animation as a means to delve into profound themes and matters, similar to BoJack Horseman. The series is recognized for its exceptional and subtle portrayals of intricate characters who grapple with inner conflicts and the intricacies of human sentiment.
9. 30 Rock (2006)
“The Show” is a comedy sketch show that follows the life of Liz Lemon, a successful producer and writer of a fictional comedy sketch show called “Rock 30.” The cast of the show includes an unstable comedian and a narcissistic boss, resulting in hilarious situations behind-the-scenes of the television production world.
Bojack Horseman and Rock 30 are both shows that delve into serious issues such as the toxicity of the entertainment industry and mental health addiction. However, while Bojack Horseman focuses on the deep exploration of the human psyche and the personal struggles of complex and flawed characters, Rock 30 leans more towards absurdity and satire.
10. Arrested Development (2003)
The show Arrested Development, which premiered in 2003, is known for its clever writing, intricate plot lines, and absurd humor. It follows the dysfunctional Bluth family, who must navigate various financial and legal troubles after their patriarch is arrested for embezzlement.
Fans of the popular animated series, Bojack Horseman, may enjoy Arrested Development for its similar approach to storytelling and humor. Both shows feature complex characters who are relatable and flawed, often making mistakes with lasting consequences. Additionally, they both use sarcasm and satire to comment on themes of personal growth, identity, family dysfunction, and society.
11. The Other Two (2019)
The Two Other is a comedy television series that premiered on Central Comedy in 2019, following the lives of siblings Brooke and Cary. As Chase, their 13-year-old brother, becomes a viral sensation overnight after a video makes him famous, Brooke and Cary try to keep up with their newfound fame while navigating the ups and downs of their own personal and professional lives.
Two Other The combines witty and smart television, making it a must-watch for fans. It blends poignant moments of introspection with comedy, providing entertainment that is enjoyed by fans of the popular animated comedy series Bojack Horseman. Additionally, Two Other The offers sharp commentary and irreverent humor, further enhancing the enjoyment for its audience.
12. Barry (2018)
Barry is a dark comedy television show that premiered on HBO in 2018. The story follows the life of Barry Berkman, a former marine turned hitman, who travels to Los Angeles to pursue a new career in acting. Instead of carrying out his job, Barry finds himself drawn to the vibrant theater scene of the city. As he begins his acting career, Barry struggles to leave behind his violent past and deals with the consequences of his actions.
The series Barry shares some similarities with Horseman Bojack in terms of its exploration of flawed and complex characters, as well as its use of humor to tackle serious themes such as the consequences of one’s actions and addiction, trauma, and personal struggles of a former TV star who delves into the criminal underworld and attempts to become a hitman.
13. Master Of None (2015)
The critically acclaimed television series “Master of None” follows the life of Dev, a 30-year-old actor living in New York City, as he navigates the challenges of dating, work, adulthood, and exploring issues related to cultural and gender identity, as well as race. The show was created by Alan Yang and Aziz Ansari.
Fans of Bojack Horseman may enjoy None of Master for its similar approach in tackling serious themes with heart and humor. The show also explores the complexities of modern life through relatable and flawed characters, making it uplifting, refreshing, and with a touch of optimism.
14. Mad Men (2007)
The series Mad Men is a critically acclaimed drama that aired from 2007 to 2015. Set in the 1960s, the show follows the personal and professional lives of employees at the New York advertising agency Sterling Cooper, exploring themes such as the American Dream, social change, and gender roles.
Both Bojack Horseman and Mad Men are character-driven shows that examine the complex themes and explore the human condition. They offer nuanced portrayals of their respective time periods and settings, commenting on larger societal issues and personal struggles of the characters.
15. Fleabag (2016)
The show “Fleabag” follows the emotionally complex and irreverent life of a young woman known only as Fleabag, living in London and dealing with the guilt of her own failures and the grief of losing her best friend. Throughout the series, she navigates relationships with lovers, friends, and family. “Fleabag” is a British television series created and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge.
“Fleabag,” “Bojack Horseman,” and similar shows use humor to tackle serious topics such as trauma, addiction, and depression. Both feature complex and flawed characters who are trying to come to terms with their present and past selves. They explore the messy and often dark aspects of human relationships, as well as the struggle to find happiness and meaning in life.
16. Flowers (2016)
Flowers is a British TV comedy-drama series that follows a dysfunctional and eccentric family as they navigate through their conflicts and struggles, exploring complex themes such as unconventional relationships, love, dynamics of family, creativity, and mental health.
Fans of Bojack Horseman, who appreciate creative and experimental storytelling, might be drawn to the visually stunning and uniquely styled cinematography and animation showcased in “Flowers”. Additionally, “Flowers” also presents relatable and flawed characters who face deep emotional struggles and make questionable decisions, similar to Bojack Horseman. Fans of Bojack Horseman might enjoy “Flowers” for its artistic and comedic exploration of heavy and dark themes, in a similar manner.
17. Archer (2009)
Archer, an American adult animated sitcom, was created by Adam Reed. The series centers around Sterling Archer, a talented and egotistical spy employed by a global intelligence organization known as ISIS. Recognized for its rapid-fire and disrespectful comedy, the show also incorporates references to popular culture and clever use of language.
They often use contemporary issues as premises for absurd commentary, and they also have a penchant for sharing social commentary and satire. Both shows delve into themes such as mental health, addiction, relationships, and identity, and explore the neuroses and struggles of their flawed protagonists. In many ways, “Bojack Horseman” shares similarities with the popular animated adult sitcom “Archer.”
18. Califronication (2007)
The TV series Californication, which aired on Showtime from 2007 to 2014, revolves around the life of Hank Moody, a struggling writer living in Los Angeles who is trying to find success in his career while dealing with his personal demons. The show explores themes such as the impact of fame, drugs, sex, and love on a person’s life.
Both Bojack Horseman and Californication are known for their exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the emotional depth they provide, although they differ in their format. While both shows provide commentary on the struggles of living in Los Angeles and the pitfalls of fame, they also showcase dark humor and complex characters.
19. South Park (1997)
The show South Park is known for its ability to address sensitive topics in a humorous way and its sharp writing has been praised. The show often touches on controversial topics such as social issues, religion, and politics, using satire and dark humor. South Park is an animated television series that revolves around the lives of four boys – Kenny, Cartman, Kyle, and Stan – who live in the titular town of South Park, Colorado.
Bojack Horseman, a show produced by South Park, employs a unique animation style and showcases characters with well-developed personalities and flaws. It also tackles a wider range of topics, including the entertainment industry, addiction, mental health, and complex societal issues. Fans of Bojack Horseman may enjoy the show because it uses humor to explore these complex topics.
20. Final Space (2018)
Space Final is an animated comedy-drama sci-fi series that revolves around the adventures of Gary Goodspeed, a prisoner aboard a spaceship named The One, as he follows his crew through the galaxy, battling evil forces and discovering the secrets of the universe.
Exhibiting similarities in genre, Final Space distinguishes itself from other shows by incorporating a distinctive touch through its animation style and inclusion of sci-fi elements. However, in a distinct backdrop, Final Space addresses subjects such as grief, suffering, and personal growth, in a manner akin to Bojack Horseman. Both series delve into intricate themes and sentiments while employing humor and character progression, making Final Space a delightful choice for fans of Bojack Horseman.
5. Daria (1997)
Daria is an animated television series that premiered in 1997 and ran for five seasons. The show revolves around the life of Daria Morgendorffer, a high school student who often finds herself at odds with the vapid and shallow culture of her surroundings. She is sarcastic and intelligent.
The show Daria is known for its clever writing and satirical commentary, as well as its dry humor, making it a favorite among cult viewers. Jane navigates the challenges of adolescence while grappling with the expectations placed on young women and the dynamics of family and social hierarchies, along with her best friend Daria.
6. Moral Orel (2005)
The show Orel Moral is an American animated stop-motion series created by Dino Stamatopoulos that follows the life of a young boy named Puppington Orel, who lives in the conservative fictional town of Moralton.
Both shows use dark humor to tackle serious topics and feature complex, flawed characters who struggle to find purpose and meaning in their lives. Orel Moral, another adult animated series, shares many similarities with Bojack Horseman in dealing with heavy themes such as trauma, depression, and addiction.