The Best TV Shows About Dysfunctional Families

Family conflict is a universal theme that resonates with audiences worldwide. From the warmth of a loving home to the chaos of a dysfunctional family, TV shows have masterfully woven this theme into their narratives. If you’re looking for a show that will keep you entertained, invested, and maybe even a little uncomfortable, then look no further. We’ve curated a list of the best TV shows about dysfunctional families, ranked by their level of dysfunctionality.

Table of Contents

1. Peaky Blinders (2013 – 2022)

Set in post-World War I England, Peaky Blinders is a crime drama that follows the Shelby family, a gangster clan from Birmingham. Led by Cillian Murphy’s Tommy Shelby, the family navigates their criminal empire while dealing with personal struggles and internal conflicts. The show’s complex characters and gripping storylines make it a must-watch for anyone who loves a good family drama.

2. The Umbrella Academy (2019 – 2024)

Based on the comic book series by Gerard Way and Gabriel Bá, The Umbrella Academy follows a dysfunctional superfamily of adoptive siblings who must come together to stop an apocalyptic threat. With its blend of action, comedy, and suspense, this show is a wild ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

3. House of the Dragon (2022 – )

As a prequel to Game of Thrones, House of the Dragon explores the Targaryen family’s inner conflicts as they vie for power and control. Set 300 years before the events of Game of Thrones, this show delves into the complex relationships between family members and their ruthless ambitions.

4. Six Feet Under (2001 – 2005)

This critically acclaimed HBO series follows the Fisher family as they run a funeral home in Los Angeles. With its sharp writing and top-notch acting performances, Six Feet Under is a masterpiece of character-driven drama that explores themes of identity, mortality, and family dynamics.

5. The Middle (2009 – 2018)

This heartwarming comedy series follows the Heck family as they navigate middle-class life in small-town Indiana. With its relatable characters and witty humor, The Middle is a feel-good show that will leave you smiling.

6. Raising Hope (2010 – 2015)

Created by Greg Garcia, Raising Hope is a quirky comedy-drama that follows Jimmy Chance, a young man who becomes an unlikely single parent after his girlfriend goes to jail. With its offbeat humor and lovable characters, this show is a hidden gem worth discovering.

7. Schitt’s Creek (2015 – 2020)

Dan Levy’s heartwarming comedy follows the Rose family as they adjust to life in the small town of Schitt’s Creek after losing their fortune. With its clever writing and lovable characters, Schitt’s Creek is a feel-good show that will make you laugh and cry.

8. Family Guy (1999 – present)

This iconic animated series created by Seth MacFarlane is known for its cutaway gags and dark humor. While it may not be for everyone, Family Guy’s dysfunctional Griffin family is sure to provide plenty of laughs and cringe-worthy moments.

9. Bates Motel (2013 – 2017)

Based on Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho, Bates Motel explores the complex relationship between Norma and Norman Bates as they move to White Pine Bay to start anew. With its dark atmosphere and twisted plotlines, this show is perfect for fans of psychological thrillers.

10. All in the Family (1971 – 1979)

Created by Norman Lear, All in the Family is a classic sitcom that tackles social issues and cultural changes in America during the 1970s. With its relatable characters and timely commentary, this show remains relevant even today.

11. Mad Men (2007 – 2015)

Set in 1960s New York City, Mad Men follows Don Draper, an ad executive with multiple secrets and lies. With its complex characters and nuanced storytelling, this show is perfect for fans of character-driven drama.

12. Yellowstone (2018 – present)

Created by Taylor Sheridan and John Linson, Yellowstone follows the Dutton family as they navigate their ranching empire in Montana. With its gritty realism and intense family dynamics, this show is perfect for fans of Western dramas.

13. Kevin Can F* Himself (2021 – 2022)**

This innovative comedy series follows Allison McRoberts as she tries to take control of her life after her husband’s constant abuse and manipulation. With its dark humor and thought-provoking themes, this show is a must-watch for anyone who’s ever felt trapped in an unhealthy relationship.

14. Succession (2018 – present)

While not strictly about dysfunctional families per se, Succession explores the complex relationships within the Roy family as they navigate their media empire. With its sharp writing and talented cast, this show is perfect for fans of corporate drama.

15. Rerun

And there you have it – our ranking of the best TV shows about dysfunctional families! From comedy to drama to thriller, these shows offer something for everyone who loves a good story about families gone awry.

15. Rerun (2018)

A spin-off of the popular sitcom “Fresh Off the Boat,” Rerun follows the Huang family as they navigate their relationships and personal struggles. With its heartwarming humor and relatable characters, this show is a great addition to the list.

16. Modern Family (2009 – 2020)

This Emmy-winning sitcom follows three related families as they navigate their quirky relationships and personal struggles. With its witty humor and lovable characters, Modern Family is a feel-good show that will leave you smiling.

17. The Goldbergs (2013 – present)

Set in the 1980s, The Goldbergs is a semi-autobiographical comedy that follows the Goldberg family as they navigate the ups and downs of growing up. With its nostalgic value and relatable characters, this show is a must-watch for anyone who grew up in the ’80s.

18. Ray Donovan (2013 – 2020)

This Showtime series follows Ray Donovan, a troubled ex-con who works as a fixer for high-profile clients. With its gritty realism and complex characters, Ray Donovan explores themes of family trauma and redemption.

19. Ozark (2017 – 2022)

Created by Bill Dubuque and Mark Williams, Ozark follows the Byrde family as they relocate to the Missouri Ozarks to launder money for a drug cartel. With its tense atmosphere and complex characters, this show is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas.

20. Succession: Better Call Saul (2019 – present)

This prequel to Breaking Bad follows Jimmy McGill’s transformation into Saul Goodman, with a focus on his relationships with his family and colleagues. With its sharp writing and talented cast, this show is a great addition to the list.

There you have it – our top 20 TV shows about dysfunctional families! Whether you prefer comedy, drama, or thriller, there’s something on this list for everyone.

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