Skip to main content

3 shows like Abbott Elementary to add to your watchlist

Each one has the signature mockumentary style we've grown to love.
ByCarolann Odi
IT’S ALWAYS SUNNY IN PHILADELPHIA — “The Gang F***s Up Abbott Elementary” — Season 17, Episode 1 — Pictured (L-R): Tyler James Williams as Gregory Eddie, Quinta Brunson as Janine Teagues, Chris Perfetti as Jacob Hill, Quinta Janelle James as Ava Coleman, Sheryl Lee Ralph as Barbara Howard, Lisa Ann Walter as Melissa Schemmenti, William Stanford Davis as Mr. Johnson. CR: Steve Swisher/FX
IT’S ALWAYS SUNNY IN PHILADELPHIA — “The Gang F***s Up Abbott Elementary” — Season 17, Episode 1 — Pictured (L-R): Tyler James Williams as Gregory Eddie, Quinta Brunson as Janine Teagues, Chris Perfetti as Jacob Hill, Quinta Janelle James as Ava Coleman, Sheryl Lee Ralph as Barbara Howard, Lisa Ann Walter as Melissa Schemmenti, William Stanford Davis as Mr. Johnson. CR: Steve Swisher/FX | FX

Abbott Elementary follows a group of dedicated teachers and staff as they navigate the challenges that come with working at a public school in West Philadelphia. Since premiering in 2021, the show has captured hearts with its laugh-out-loud comedy, single-camera mockumentary style, and talented cast.

The public has received Abbott Elementary so well that fans might look for other shows with a similar style. Thankfully, the mockumentary sitcom is quite popular in the modern television landscape. Try adding one of these three shows to your watchlist!

3. Parks and Recreation

Parks and Recreation followed the antics of a group of public officials in the Indiana Parks and Recreation Department as they tried to make their town better. The employees were often bogged down by bureaucracy or funding issues but remained devoted to serving their community as best they could.

The characters on Parks and Recreation faced some of the same issues we see on Abbott Elementary. As a result, they often went to absurd lengths to accomplish their goals, creating some truly hilarious moments. In this way, both shows found a nice balance between laugh-out-loud comedy and heartfelt, emotional moments.

Parks and Recreation is available to stream on Peacock.

2. Modern Family

Modern Family followed the chaos and heartfelt moments of three interrelated families in the heart of suburban Los Angeles. As the families dealt with the demands of work, school, and romance, they also navigated dynamic relationships between them.

Modern Family has the same mockumentary style that we love about Abbott Elementary. However, what sets it apart is the fact that the documentary is never addressed on the show. We never find out why the family is being filmed or why they agreed to it in the first place. But somehow, that makes it even more hilarious.

Modern Family is available to stream on Hulu.

1. The Office (US)

The Office followed the mundane, borderline cringe-worthy lives of office workers in Pennsylvania as they participated in a documentary. Led by their eccentric, delusional leader, Michael Scott (Steve Carell), the employees navigated dynamic professional relationships consisting of unpredictable situations, inappropriate behavior, and angst-filled romance.

The Office is arguably the most watched show on this list, and for good reason. The show almost single-handedly popularized the mockumentary sitcom style. From Steve Carell's hilariously awkward portrayal of regional management to Jim and Pam's sweet love story, The Office has a lot to love.

If you like Abbott Elementary, you should give The Office a try!

The Office is available to stream on Peacock.

Add us as a preferred source on Google