So Young Sheldon just ended and you’re wondering: What now? That mix of family warmth, sharp wit, and a side of heart-tugging moments is hard to beat—but don’t worry. We’ve rounded up the 10 best shows that scratch the same itch, whether you loved Sheldon’s intellectual quirks, the family dynamics, or just the cozy small-town vibe.
1. The Middle
The Perfect Post-Sheldon Comfort Show
The Middle is probably the most recommended follow-up to Young Sheldon, and for good reason. It follows the Heck family in small-town Indiana, dealing with life’s absurdities on a tight budget. Think: Missy’s sass meets Brick’s book obsession. It’s quirky, heartfelt, and wildly relatable.
2. Malcolm in the Middle
A Genius Kid + Family Chaos = TV Gold
If you loved Sheldon’s brilliance and his “I’m not like other kids” vibe, Malcolm will feel like a spiritual cousin. This early-2000s sitcom follows a boy genius navigating life in a hilariously dysfunctional family. It’s edgy, smart, and incredibly funny.
3. The Wonder Years (2021 Reboot or Original)
A Coming-of-Age Story with Serious Heart
Both the original and the reboot deliver nostalgia-drenched storytelling, focusing on childhood, family, and the awkward stages of growing up. The 2021 version, set in the 1960s and told from a Black family’s perspective, brings fresh insight and warmth.
4. Speechless
Family, Disabilities, and Laugh-Out-Loud Moments
This show centers on a mom (Minnie Driver) who will stop at nothing to help her son with cerebral palsy live a full life. The family bond, sibling dynamics, and heartfelt comedy are perfect for Young Sheldon fans who love shows with both depth and humor
5. Black-ish
Smart, Funny, and Socially Aware
If you appreciated Young Sheldon for its take on childhood through a cultural lens, Black-ish might be your next go-to. It blends laugh-out-loud comedy with thoughtful takes on parenting, race, and identity, all anchored by a lovable family unit.
6. Modern Family
A Big Family with Even Bigger Laughs
This mockumentary-style sitcom offers endless laughs and heartfelt moments through the lens of a sprawling, diverse family. Each character—from precocious kids to clueless adults—brings something special, much like the Coopers in Young Sheldon.
7. Raising Hope
Dysfunctional but Lovable, Just Like the Coopers
Imagine a goofy young dad trying to raise a baby with the help of his eccentric parents and grandmother. Raising Hopeis offbeat, funny, and surprisingly touching—perfect if you liked the sweet-meets-silly tone of Young Sheldon.
8. Parenthood
For the Drama Lovers Who Cried at George Sr.’s Storyline
If the emotional arcs in Young Sheldon hit you hard, Parenthood will hit even harder. This family drama dives into the complexities of raising kids, dealing with loss, and balancing love and life. Keep tissues nearby.
9. Young Rock
A Comedic Take on Childhood and Fame
This semi-autobiographical show about Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s younger years has a similar format to Young Sheldon, mixing comedy with life lessons. Bonus: tons of ‘80s and ‘90s nostalgia.
10. Everybody Hates Chris
Another Kid Genius, Another Classic Sitcom
Based on the early life of comedian Chris Rock, this show is sharp, funny, and packed with heart. It’s a smart kid trying to survive school, family, and social awkwardness. Sound familiar?
Conclusion: There’s Life After ‘Young Sheldon’
Whether you loved the show for its brains, its heart, or its quirky sense of humor, there’s no shortage of TV options that offer a similar vibe. From feel-good family sitcoms to thought-provoking coming-of-age tales, these 10 shows will keep you entertained while filling the Sheldon-shaped hole in your life.
So grab a snack, queue up your streaming app, and get ready to binge your next favorite show.
FAQs
1. Are any of these shows available on streaming platforms?
Yes! Most are on Hulu, Netflix, Peacock, Max, or Paramount+. A quick search will help you find where to watch them.
2. Is ‘The Middle’ directly related to ‘Young Sheldon’?
No, but it’s often compared because of its similar tone, setting, and relatable family dynamics.
3. Which of these shows has the most emotional depth?
Parenthood and The Wonder Years lean more dramatic but still have warm humor.
4. Are these shows kid-friendly?
Most are family-friendly, but Malcolm in the Middle, Modern Family, and Raising Hope are better for teens and up due to some mature themes.
5. What if I want more Sheldon-related content?
You can rewatch The Big Bang Theory, which continues Sheldon’s story into adulthood. Plus, keep an eye out for any future spinoffs CBS might develop.
