As one of the most acclaimed legal drama series on television, “The Good Wife” captivated audiences with its intriguing storyline, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes. The show follows Alicia Florrick, a former lawyer who returns to the legal world after her husband’s scandal forces her back into the workforce. Throughout its seven-season run, “The Good Wife” garnered critical acclaim and a devoted fan base, making it a standout in the world of television.
For fans of “The Good Wife” who are looking for similar shows to fill the void left by the series finale, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re drawn to the legal drama, political intrigue, or strong female leads, there are shows out there that capture the essence of what made “The Good Wife” so compelling. Here are some shows like “The Good Wife” that you may enjoy, along with 13 song examples that perfectly capture the mood and tone of each show.
1. “Scandal” – If you enjoy the political intrigue and complex characters of “The Good Wife,” then “Scandal” is a must-watch. This series follows Olivia Pope, a former White House communications director who starts her own crisis management firm. With its fast-paced plot twists and intense drama, “Scandal” will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Song Example: “Gladiator” by Zayde Wolf
2. “Suits” – “Suits” follows the high-stakes world of corporate law, focusing on a talented college dropout who starts working at a top law firm without a law degree. The show’s sharp wit, engaging characters, and clever legal maneuvers make it a must-watch for fans of legal dramas.
Song Example: “Money” by Pink Floyd
3. “The Good Fight” – A spinoff of “The Good Wife,” “The Good Fight” follows Diane Lockhart as she navigates the world of Chicago politics and law. With its timely themes and strong female characters, this series is a worthy successor to its predecessor.
Song Example: “Fight Song” by Rachel Platten
4. “How to Get Away with Murder” – This gripping legal thriller follows a group of ambitious law students and their brilliant criminal defense professor as they become entangled in a murder plot. With its suspenseful plot twists and compelling characters, “How to Get Away with Murder” is a must-watch for fans of intense dramas.
Song Example: “Killing Me Softly With His Song” by Roberta Flack
5. “Boston Legal” – This legal comedy-drama follows a group of eccentric lawyers at a Boston law firm as they tackle controversial cases and navigate their personal lives. With its mix of humor and drama, “Boston Legal” is a unique and entertaining take on the legal genre.
Song Example: “Crazy” by Gnarls Barkley
6. “Damages” – This legal thriller follows a ruthless lawyer and her ambitious protégée as they take on high-profile cases and navigate the cutthroat world of New York City law. With its dark and twisted plotlines, “Damages” is a gripping and intense drama that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
Song Example: “Bad Reputation” by Joan Jett
7. “Madam Secretary” – For fans of the political intrigue and strong female leads of “The Good Wife,” “Madam Secretary” is a must-watch. This series follows Elizabeth McCord, a former CIA analyst who becomes the Secretary of State and navigates the complex world of international politics.
Song Example: “Run the World (Girls)” by Beyoncé
8. “The West Wing” – This acclaimed political drama follows the inner workings of the White House and the lives of its staff members. With its intelligent writing and compelling characters, “The West Wing” is a must-watch for fans of political dramas.
Song Example: “White House Blues” by Earl Scruggs
9. “The Crown” – This historical drama follows the reign of Queen Elizabeth II and the challenges she faces as the head of the British monarchy. With its lavish production values and strong performances, “The Crown” is a captivating and immersive series that will transport you to another time and place.
Song Example: “God Save the Queen” by Sex Pistols
10. “House of Cards” – This political thriller follows the ruthless and manipulative Frank Underwood as he climbs the ranks of Washington politics. With its dark and twisted plotlines, “House of Cards” is a gripping and intense drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Song Example: “Power” by Kanye West
11. “The Newsroom” – This drama follows a cable news anchor and his team as they navigate the world of broadcast journalism and tackle controversial stories. With its sharp writing and compelling characters, “The Newsroom” is a thought-provoking and engaging series that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
Song Example: “Breaking News” by Michael Jackson
12. “The Good Place” – This quirky comedy follows a woman who wakes up in the afterlife and must navigate the challenges of living in a seemingly perfect paradise. With its clever humor and philosophical themes, “The Good Place” is a refreshing and original take on the afterlife genre.
Song Example: “Heaven is a Place on Earth” by Belinda Carlisle
13. “Mindhunter” – This crime thriller follows two FBI agents as they interview serial killers and delve into the minds of criminals to solve violent crimes. With its chilling atmosphere and intense performances, “Mindhunter” is a gripping and suspenseful series that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Song Example: “Psycho Killer” by Talking Heads
Common Questions about Shows Like The Good Wife:
1. Are there any legal dramas similar to “The Good Wife”?
Yes, there are several legal dramas that capture the essence of “The Good Wife,” such as “Suits,” “Scandal,” and “Damages.”
2. What are some shows with strong female leads like Alicia Florrick?
Shows like “Madam Secretary,” “The Crown,” and “Scandal” feature strong female leads navigating complex worlds.
3. Are there any political dramas similar to “The Good Wife”?
Yes, shows like “House of Cards,” “The West Wing,” and “Madam Secretary” offer political intrigue and complex characters.
4. What are some shows that blend humor and drama like “Boston Legal”?
“Damages,” “The Newsroom,” and “The Good Place” are examples of shows that mix humor and drama effectively.
5. Are there any legal thrillers similar to “How to Get Away with Murder”?
“Damages,” “Mindhunter,” and “Scandal” are all gripping legal thrillers that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
6. What are some shows with dark and twisted plotlines like “Damages”?
“House of Cards,” “Mindhunter,” and “Breaking Bad” are examples of shows with dark and twisted plotlines that will keep you hooked.
7. Are there any historical dramas similar to “The Crown”?
“Mad Men,” “Downton Abbey,” and “Band of Brothers” are all examples of compelling historical dramas that transport viewers to another time and place.
8. What are some shows with intense political intrigue like “House of Cards”?
“Scandal,” “The West Wing,” and “Madam Secretary” all offer intense political intrigue and complex characters.
9. Are there any shows with a focus on broadcast journalism like “The Newsroom”?
“Spotlight,” “Good Night, and Good Luck,” and “Broadcast News” are all examples of films and shows that explore the world of broadcast journalism.
10. What are some shows with philosophical themes like “The Good Place”?
“Lost,” “The Leftovers,” and “The OA” are examples of shows that delve into philosophical and existential themes.
11. Are there any shows that explore the afterlife like “The Good Place”?
“The OA,” “Forever,” and “Russian Doll” are all examples of shows that take a unique and creative look at the afterlife.
12. What are some shows with strong ensemble casts like “The West Wing”?
“Friends,” “The Office,” and “Game of Thrones” are examples of shows with strong ensemble casts that bring a diverse group of characters to life.
13. Are there any shows with intricate political plots like “Scandal”?
“House of Cards,” “The West Wing,” and “Madam Secretary” all feature intricate political plots and complex characters.
14. What are some shows that explore the psychology of criminals like “Mindhunter”?
“Criminal Minds,” “Dexter,” and “True Detective” are examples of shows that delve into the minds of criminals and explore the psychology behind violent crimes.
In conclusion, “The Good Wife” was a standout in the world of television, captivating audiences with its compelling storyline, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes. For fans of the show looking for similar series to enjoy, there are plenty of options to choose from, ranging from legal dramas and political thrillers to quirky comedies and historical dramas. Each of these shows offers something unique and engaging, providing viewers with a diverse range of genres and themes to explore. Whether you’re drawn to the intense drama of “Scandal” or the dark humor of “Boston Legal,” there’s a show out there that will capture your attention and keep you entertained for hours on end. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as you explore these shows that are sure to fill the void left by “The Good Wife.”