Harlem was a hit for Amazon Prime Video when it premiered in 2021, so it was no surprise that it was soon greenlit for a second season. Here is a quick look at some other TV shows that are like Harlem that you might enjoy.
Sweet Magnolias (2020)
Three friends from South Carolina help and support each other through all kinds of situations in this successful show on Netflix. Perhaps a little gentler in tone than Harlem, but with similar themes, this wholesome series is sometimes a little too sentimental, but you never know when this kind of show is just what you need to watch. It may not be cutting-edge drama, and things move slowly, but with three seasons under their belt, they must have an audience out there.
Insecure (2016)
The HBO show has an incredible five seasons to sample and was initially inspired by the web series “The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl.” Following the stories of best friends struggling through the complexities of life in LA, the series does not back away from confronting social issues. Created by Issa Rae, the writer also stars in the show and has a prominent YouTube channel that features short films and web series.
Run The World (2021)
Another group of firm friends in Harlem is the backbone of this series, so it’s easy to see why this makes our list. Four strong black female leads Amber Stevens West, Andrea Bordeaux, Bresha Webb, and Corbin Reid, make up the main cast as we follow the lives and loves of the characters.
Girlfriends (2000)
Here is a blast from the past, but probably the inspiration for many of the shows that would follow it. Girlfriends was a hugely popular show that once again followed the stories of four friends, Toni, Maya, Lynn, and Joan. It was nominated for an Emmy in 2003, as well as numerous other nominations, and they’re are an incredible 172 episodes that you could work your way through if you have the time.
The Game (2006) and (2021)
I couldn’t miss this one, as it is a spin-off from Girlfriends. There is a slight twist here, as the group of friends at the core of this long-running show are all in a relationship with pro footballers, hence the title.
Once again, there is an impressive 147 episodes for you to get your teeth into, but as is often the case with long-running shows, it seems the first few seasons are the best. The show received a reboot on the CW network in 2021, and the setting changed from San Diego to Las Vegas. The reboot has so far had two seasons and eighteen episodes.
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