Shows Like What I Like About You
Oh, What I Like About You! Remember Holly and Val? Those quirky sisters living in a New York apartment that somehow always looked more fabulous than ours ever could, no matter how many fairy lights we strung up?
If you’re still feeling that sweet nostalgia and craving more of that specific brand of laugh-out-loud, feel-good sitcom magic, you've come to the right place!
We're talking about shows with that perfect blend of witty banter, lovable characters you’d totally want as your best friends (or siblings!), and just enough heartwarming moments to make you believe in the power of good vibes.
So, grab your comfiest sweatpants, maybe a giant bowl of popcorn, and let's dive into some shows that are practically siblings to What I Like About You!
Shows That Just Feel Right
First up, we have to talk about a true classic, a show that practically wrote the book on sisterly shenanigans and dating disasters: Lizzie McGuire!
Think about it. Lizzie, with her animated alter-ego giving her all the unsolicited advice, trying to navigate the treacherous waters of middle school.
It’s got that same vibe of figuring things out as you go, with a healthy dose of awkwardness and a whole lot of heart. Plus, Hilary Duff was basically our style icon for a solid five years, right?
Then there's Even Stevens. Remember the Ren and Louis dynamic? The ultimate frenemies, constantly scheming and bickering, but deep down, you knew they’d always have each other's backs.
This show was pure chaotic energy, in the best possible way. It was like watching your own family, just with more elaborate pranks and a ridiculously catchy theme song.
And who could forget That's So Raven? Raven-Symoné’s psychic abilities were the ultimate plot device, leading to some of the most hilarious misunderstandings and near-disasters you’ve ever seen.
It’s got that relatable teen angst mixed with a supernatural twist, and Raven’s facial expressions alone were enough to make you snort-laugh. It’s pure comedic gold!
The Roommates and Besties We Wish We Had
Now, let’s shift our focus to those shows where the friendships and living situations are just as important as the romance. Think of Valerie and Holly’s apartment – it was a character in itself, wasn’t it?
If you’re looking for that same cozy, slightly chaotic living situation, then you have to check out New Girl.
Jess Day, the quirky, optimistic schoolteacher, moves into a loft with three single men. The ensuing friendships, the singing, the weird hollering – it’s a recipe for pure joy!
The ensemble cast in New Girl is just chef’s kiss. Their chemistry is off the charts, and their bizarre group activities will make you wish you had roommates this entertaining.
It’s got the same kind of found-family vibe that made What I Like About You so special. You genuinely root for these characters and their quirky adventures.
Another show that nails the friendship dynamic is Friends. I mean, duh!
While it’s older, the core of relatable, sometimes messy, always supportive friendships is identical. Monica, Rachel, Phoebe, Joey, Chandler, and Ross navigating life, love, and that iconic purple apartment in New York.
The coffee shop hangout, the over-the-top dating stories, the inside jokes that feel like they're for you – it's a comfort food of a show that delivers every single time.
If you love the idea of a core group of friends who are basically each other’s chosen family, then Friends is your jam. It’s the ultimate escapism with a side of genuine emotional connection.
And for a slightly more modern take on the roommate comedy, we have Couples Retreat. Okay, wait, that’s a movie. Let’s try again. How about Happy Endings?
This show was criminally underrated! It follows a group of six friends in Chicago, and their lives are a constant whirlwind of hilarious mishaps and witty comebacks.
The humor in Happy Endings is fast-paced, sharp, and incredibly quotable. It’s the kind of show where you’ll find yourself rewatching episodes just to catch all the subtle jokes you missed the first time.
The characters are all wonderfully flawed and relatable, and their dynamic is the heart of the show. You'll feel like you're part of their ridiculous inner circle in no time.
When Romance is Sweet and Slightly Clumsy
Now, let’s talk about the romantic side of things. In What I Like About You, the relationships, whether it was Val and Chase or Holly and whoever she was dating that week, were always part of the fun. They had that charming, slightly messy, feel-good quality.
If that’s your jam, then you absolutely must watch How I Met Your Mother.
Ted Mosby telling his kids the epic, hilarious, and sometimes heartbreaking story of how he met their mother. It’s all about the journey, the friends, and the ridiculous adventures that lead to love.
The gang at MacLaren's Pub is just as iconic as the Central Perk crew. Their inside jokes, their elaborate schemes to find love, and their unwavering support for each other make for such compelling viewing.
It has that perfect balance of laugh-out-loud comedy and genuinely touching moments. You’ll fall in love with the characters and their quest for a lasting connection.
Speaking of charmingly awkward romance, have you seen The Mindy Project?
Mindy Lahiri, the brilliant but romantically challenged OB/GYN, is a force of nature. She’s hilarious, she’s a pop culture queen, and she’s always looking for “the one” in the most spectacularly disastrous ways.
The show is packed with pop culture references, laugh-out-loud moments, and a surprisingly sweet and evolving central romance. Mindy’s journey is one that many can relate to, filled with humor and a whole lot of heart.
And let’s not forget a show that practically defined the “will-they-won’t-they” trope with a smile: Boy Meets World.
Cory and Topanga’s love story is the stuff of legends! From childhood sweethearts to navigating adulthood together, their relationship was a constant source of comfort and joy.
Sure, it might be a bit more wholesome than some of the others, but the pure, unadulterated sweetness of Cory and Topanga’s bond is incredibly endearing. It’s like a warm hug in television form.
This show is all about growing up, learning life lessons, and, of course, finding your soulmate. It’s a classic for a reason, and if you loved the romantic arcs in What I Like About You, you’ll adore this one.
The Takeaway: More Than Just Laughs
Ultimately, what we loved about What I Like About You, and what these other shows offer in spades, is that feeling of warmth and belonging. It’s the comfort of knowing that even when life gets crazy, you’ve got your people.
These shows are your escape hatch from the everyday, your guaranteed dose of good cheer. They remind us of the power of laughter, the strength of friendship, and the simple joy of figuring life out, one hilarious misstep at a time.
So go ahead, indulge your inner sitcom lover. There are plenty more laughs and lovable characters waiting for you. Happy binge-watching!
