The Wonder Years is a beloved coming-of-age TV show that captures the essence of growing up in the late 60s and early 70s. If you’re a fan of nostalgic, heartfelt dramas, you’ll love these 18 TV shows that offer a similar blend of humor, life lessons, and memorable characters. Check out more about The Wonder Years here.
1. Freaks and Geeks
Freaks and Geeks is a cult classic that explores high school life in the early 80s. The show stars Linda Cardellini, James Franco, and Seth Rogen, and it delves into the lives of two distinct groups of teenagers: the “freaks” and the “geeks.”
2. My So-Called Life
My So-Called Life follows the life of 15-year-old Angela Chase, played by Claire Danes, as she navigates the challenges of adolescence. The show is known for its realistic portrayal of teenage angst and complex characters.
3. The Goldbergs
The Goldbergs is a family sitcom set in the 1980s, chronicling the life of young Adam Goldberg and his quirky family. Starring Wendi McLendon-Covey and Jeff Garlin, the show is filled with nostalgia and humor.
4. Boy Meets World
Boy Meets World follows the life of Cory Matthews, played by Ben Savage, as he grows from a young boy into a young man. The show covers his relationships, school life, and the valuable lessons he learns along the way.
5. That ’70s Show
That ’70s Show is a comedy that revolves around a group of teenage friends living in Wisconsin during the 1970s. Starring Topher Grace, Mila Kunis, and Ashton Kutcher, the show is known for its humor and nostalgic setting.
6. The Middle
The Middle is a sitcom about the Heck family, living in the fictional town of Orson, Indiana. Patricia Heaton and Neil Flynn star as the parents trying to navigate the everyday challenges of raising three children.
7. Malcolm in the Middle
Malcolm in the Middle follows the life of Malcolm, a boy with a genius IQ, and his dysfunctional family. Starring Frankie Muniz, Bryan Cranston, and Jane Kaczmarek, the show is a humorous take on family life and growing up.
8. Everybody Hates Chris
Everybody Hates Chris is a sitcom inspired by the teenage years of comedian Chris Rock. The show stars Tyler James Williams as Chris and Terry Crews as his strict but loving father, offering a humorous look at his upbringing in Brooklyn.
9. Gilmore Girls
Gilmore Girls centers on the close relationship between single mother Lorelai Gilmore and her daughter Rory. Starring Lauren Graham and Alexis Bledel, the show is known for its witty dialogue and charming small-town setting.
10. Parenthood
Parenthood is a heartfelt drama that follows the lives of the Braverman family. Starring Peter Krause, Lauren Graham, and Dax Shepard, the show delves into the complexities of family dynamics and personal growth.
11. The Wonder Years (2021)
The Wonder Years (2021) is a reboot of the original series, set in the same time period but focusing on a Black family in Montgomery, Alabama. The show stars Elisha “EJ” Williams and Dulé Hill, offering a fresh perspective on the classic coming-of-age story.
12. The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air is a beloved sitcom starring Will Smith as a street-smart teenager from Philadelphia who moves in with his wealthy relatives in Bel-Air. The show blends humor with life lessons and memorable characters.
13. One Tree Hill
One Tree Hill follows the lives of two half-brothers, Lucas and Nathan Scott, as they navigate high school and beyond. Starring Chad Michael Murray and James Lafferty, the show explores themes of family, friendship, and love.
14. 7th Heaven
7th Heaven is a family drama that centers on the Camden family, led by Reverend Eric Camden and his wife Annie. The show, starring Stephen Collins and Catherine Hicks, explores the challenges and joys of raising seven children.
15. The O.C.
The O.C. is a teen drama that follows Ryan Atwood, a troubled teenager who is taken in by a wealthy family in Orange County, California. Starring Ben McKenzie, Mischa Barton, and Adam Brody, the show delves into the lives of the affluent and their relationships.
16. Dawson’s Creek
Dawson’s Creek is a teen drama that follows the lives of Dawson Leery and his friends in the fictional town of Capeside. Starring James Van Der Beek, Katie Holmes, and Michelle Williams, the show explores the complexities of adolescence and young adulthood.
17. Friday Night Lights
Friday Night Lights is a drama centered around a high school football team in the small town of Dillon, Texas. Starring Kyle Chandler and Connie Britton, the show addresses issues of family, community, and the pressures of sports.
18. The Secret Life of the American Teenager
The Secret Life of the American Teenager follows the life of Amy Juergens, a teenager dealing with an unexpected pregnancy. Starring Shailene Woodley, the show explores the challenges and changes that come with teenage pregnancy and growing up.
