7 Best Shows like Mad Men to Watch on Netflix, Max and more If you’re a fan of the hit TV show Mad Men and looking for something similar to binge-watch, you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll explore seven of the best shows like Mad Men that you can find on popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, HBO Max, and more. From compelling characters to intricate storytelling, these shows capture the essence of Mad Men and will keep you hooked from start to finish. So grab your popcorn and get ready for some serious television nostalgia as we dive into these must-watch series.
7 Best Shows like Mad Men to Watch on Netflix, Max and more
- For All Mankind
- The Deuce
- Halt and Catch Fire
- Masters of Sex
- Magic City
- The Queen’s Gambit
- The Sopranos
Best Mad Men Played Pivotal Popularity Role
Jon Hamm’s portrayal of Don Draper in Mad Men played a pivotal role in the immense success of the show. Similarly, James Gandolfini’s performance as Tony Soprano in The Sopranos was essential to its popularity. Tony, the head of a mafia family in New Jersey, is a complex character who challenges viewers to question their own empathy for him due to his morally ambiguous nature.
Similar to Don, he is emotionally impenetrable, dealing with the aftermath of a troubled childhood and constructing a barrier around himself that not even years of therapy can break through. For both individuals, their journey to grow and improve themselves is an ongoing narrative of progress followed by setbacks.
For All Mankind
If you share the same interest as Bert Cooper, a character portrayed by the late Robert Morse in Mad Men, you probably consider the moon landing as one of the most significant scientific accomplishments of the 1960s. Therefore, you will likely find For All Mankind appealing. This show accurately captures the period of the Space Race in every aspect except for one:
it presents a scenario where the Russians reached the moon before the Americans, leaving the United States scrambling to catch up. The series explores how such an event could have far-reaching consequences throughout history. Its first season takes place immediately after the moon landing, while its second and third seasons delve into the long-term effects that extend into the 1990s.
The Deuce
Do you remember how, in the later seasons of Mad Men, the portrayal of Manhattan started to become more somber and gritty, mirroring the decline of the city that persisted through the 1970s and 1980s? The Deuce continues this narrative, exploring the darker side of New York City by delving into its underworld of drugs, sex, and crime.
Spanning nearly two decades over the course of three seasons, The Deuce utilized frequent time jumps to depict the journey of two Italian-American twins (both portrayed by James Franco) who become entangled with the mob, as well as the character of Candy, a Times Square sex worker portrayed by Maggie Gyllenhaal.
Halt and Catch Fire
One of the reasons why Mad Men was so attractive is because it showcased a business that was at its most glamorous during the time period it portrayed. In the early 1960s, Manhattan advertising agencies represented the epitome of style and status for professionals in the workforce. Similarly, Halt and Catch Fire explores the realm of personal computers during the 1980s, an industry on the brink of revolutionizing the world. It showcases a captivating main cast consisting of engineers and computer scientists, with Lee Pace in a mysterious leading role that was likely influenced by Jon Hamm’s successful portrayal of Donald Draper.
Masters of Sex
Don Draper, although appearing to be a traditional upper-class man in a conservative era, was actually one of the most sexually liberated characters on Mad Men. Given this, he would have undoubtedly admired the work depicted on Masters of Sex.
Michael Sheen stars in the provocative HBO series as William Masters, a doctor who embarks on a series of studies on human sexuality alongside his colleague and frequent romantic partner Virginia Johnson (played by Lizzy Caplan). The show’s intriguing approach sheds light on the limitations of 1950s sex education and gynecology, skillfully linking them to gender studies. While it delves into intellectual discussions, it also fearlessly explores the more risqué aspects, showcasing a playful sense of humor that contrasts with its protagonist’s typically reserved nature.
Magic City
Similar to how Mad Men showcases New York, Magic City highlights Miami. This captivating and lively series delves into the city’s post-Cuban Revolution era, with Jeffrey Dean Morgan portraying Ike Evans, the esteemed owner of the renowned Miramar Playa hotel in Miami.
The series explores the everyday challenges faced by the residents and employees of the Miramar Playa, as well as Evans’ regular encounters with the influential Mafia presence in Miami. Despite its captivating allure and dynamic storyline, Magic City only managed to air for two seasons on the Starz network.
The Queen’s Gambit
If you are a fan of Don Draper’s story, where an orphan uses his exceptional skills to rise above poverty and create a new life for himself, then you will be captivated by Beth Harmon (Anya Taylor-Joy) in The Queen’s Gambit. Beth follows a similar trajectory, but instead of using her talents in advertising, she applies them to the game of chess.
During her upbringing in a disciplined orphanage, Beth uncovers a talent for chess that ultimately influences her journey as she progresses from being a local sensation to becoming an internationally acclaimed chess champion, challenging the Russians. Experience the captivating production and costume design of the 1960s, and remain engaged by Taylor Joy’s profoundly intriguing portrayal of her character.
The Sopranos
Jon Hamm’s portrayal of Don Draper in Mad Men played a crucial role in the immense success of the show. Similarly, James Gandolfini’s performance as Tony Soprano in The Sopranos was instrumental in its popularity. Tony, the head of a New Jersey mafia clan, serves as a morally ambiguous protagonist, consistently challenging viewers to question their level of empathy towards him.
Similar to Don, he is emotionally invulnerable, working through a difficult upbringing and constructing a barrier around himself that not even years of therapy can penetrate. Both characters face an ongoing battle to grow and improve themselves, which often feels like taking one step forward and two steps back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Mad Men is the best series?
One of the show’s most noticeable strengths is its impeccable attention to detail, effortlessly transporting viewers back to the early 1960s. From the fashion and décor to the social norms and cigarette-smoke-filled office spaces, the show’s commitment to historical accuracy is commendable.
Is Mad Men a masterpiece?
As it stands now, ‘Mad Men’ is the best TV drama series of all-time; I don’t believe there is even a close second. The show received 4 consecutive “Outstanding Drama Series” Emmys (21 total Emmy wins out of 116 nominations) to close out it’s relatively brief pre-determined tenure of 7 seasons.
Where does Mad Men rank?
Mad Men has a Metascore of 86 and is often recognized by critics as one of the greatest television dramas of all time and a stalwart of the Peak TV era. Its fourth and best-received season has a Metascore of 92, currently ranking 55th on Metacritic’s Best TV Shows of All Time list.
Why Mad Men is popular?
As the series progresses, it depicts the changing moods and social mores of the United States throughout the 1960s and early 1970s. Mad Men received widespread critical acclaim for its writing, acting, directing, visual style and historical authenticity; it won many awards, including 16 Emmys and five Golden Globes.
Bottom Line
If you’re a fan of Mad Men and looking for similar shows to watch, you’re in luck! These seven shows mentioned in this blog provide compelling narratives, complex characters, and a glimpse into different eras and industries. From the stylish world of advertising to the cutthroat world of politics, there’s something for everyone. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready to be entertained. Whether you’re streaming on Netflix, Max, or any other platform, these shows are sure to keep you hooked from start to finish. Happy binge-watching!