12 Shows To Watch Before “Emily In Paris” Season 4
“Emily In Paris” has been a smash hit since it first strutted onto Netflix in October of 2020. Starring the fabulous Lily Collins, it follows an American who relocates to the City of Light for a gig at a French marketing agency. With zero French skills and no one to help her navigate the chic chaos, she’s in for a whirlwind of cultural clashes, romance, social escapades, and work challenges.
Season 4 is coming at you in two parts: the first drops on August 15, 2024, and the second part lands on September 12, 2024. Can’t wait? We’ve got you covered with a list of 12 shows that capture the same je ne sais quoi as “Emily in Paris.” Check out the trailer for the first part of Season 4 below!
1. “Younger” (2015-2021)
“Younger” is a scripted series that follows Liza Miller, a 40-year-old woman who pretends to be in her 20s to re-enter the competitive world of publishing after a divorce. The show is created by Darren Star, the same creator as “Emily in Paris”. The series blends comedy and drama, exploring themes of identity, friendship, and romance. It stars Sutton Foster as Liza, along with Hilary Duff, Debi Mazar, and Miriam Shor. The show aired from 2015 to 2021 and received praise for its witty writing and engaging performances.
2. “The Mindy Project” (2012-2017)
“The Mindy Project” is a comedy TV show created by and starring Mindy Kaling. It follows the life of Dr. Mindy Lahiri, a skilled obstetrician/gynecologist trying to balance her personal and professional life in New York City. The show explores her romantic misadventures, friendships, and challenges at work. Known for its sharp humor and quirky characters, “The Mindy Project” aired from 2012 to 2017. The cast includes Chris Messina, Ike Barinholtz, Ed Weeks, and Beth Grant.
3. “The Bold Type” (2017-2021)
“The Bold Type” is a drama TV show inspired by the life of former Cosmopolitan editor-in-chief Joanna Coles. It follows three young women, Jane, Kat, and Sutton, who work at the fictional Scarlet magazine in New York City. The series explores their careers, friendships, and personal lives, addressing contemporary issues such as identity, sexuality, and social media. The show is praised for its portrayal of strong female friendships and workplace dynamics. It stars Katie Stevens, Aisha Dee, and Meghann Fahy, and aired from 2017 to 2021.
4. “Ugly Betty” (2006-2010)
“Ugly Betty” is a comedy-drama TV show based on the Colombian telenovela “Yo soy Betty, la fea.” It follows Betty Suarez, an intelligent and kind-hearted young woman with an unconventional appearance who lands a job at the high-fashion magazine Mode. Despite facing ridicule and challenges, Betty’s optimism, hard work, and determination help her navigate the glamorous and cutthroat world of fashion. The show stars America Ferrera as Betty and features a diverse ensemble cast including Eric Mabius, Vanessa Williams, and Michael Urie. “Ugly Betty” aired from 2006 to 2010 and was praised for its humor, heart, and positive messages about beauty and self-acceptance.
5. “Girls” (2012-2017)
“Girls” is a comedy-drama TV show created by and starring Lena Dunham. It follows the lives of four young women in their twenties navigating the ups and downs of life in New York City. The series delves into their friendships, romantic relationships, and career struggles, offering a raw and often humorous look at the challenges of adulthood. The main characters are Hannah (Lena Dunham), Marnie (Allison Williams), Jessa (Jemima Kirke), and Shoshanna (Zosia Mamet). Known for its honest portrayal of contemporary issues and its distinct voice, “Girls” aired from 2012 to 2017.
6. “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” (2017-2023)
“The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” is a comedy-drama TV show created by Amy Sherman-Palladino. Set in the late 1950s and early 1960s, it follows Miriam “Midge” Maisel, a housewife who discovers she has a talent for stand-up comedy after her husband leaves her. Midge’s journey takes her from her comfortable life on New York City’s Upper West Side to the gritty comedy clubs of Greenwich Village, as she navigates the male-dominated world of stand-up comedy. The show stars Rachel Brosnahan as Midge, along with Tony Shalhoub, Alex Borstein, and Michael Zegen. It has been praised for its sharp writing, period-accurate set design, and strong performances. The series premiered in 2017.
7. “Fleabag” (2016-2019)
“Fleabag” is a British comedy-drama TV show created by and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge. The series centers on Fleabag, a witty and emotionally troubled young woman navigating life and love in London while coping with a recent tragedy. Known for its dark humor, breaking the fourth wall, and raw portrayal of complex emotions, the show delves into themes of grief, guilt, and self-discovery. The cast includes Olivia Colman, Sian Clifford, and Andrew Scott. “Fleabag” aired for two critically acclaimed seasons from 2016 to 2019.
8. “Girlfriends” (2000-2008)
“Girlfriends” is a comedy-drama TV show that focuses on the lives, careers, and relationships of four African-American women living in Los Angeles. The main characters are Joan Clayton, a successful attorney; Maya Wilkes, Joan’s assistant; Lynn Searcy, their free-spirited friend; and Toni Childs, a real estate agent. The show explores their friendships, personal growth, and the challenges they face in their professional and romantic lives. Created by Mara Brock Akil, “Girlfriends” stars Tracee Ellis Ross, Golden Brooks, Persia White, and Jill Marie Jones. It aired from 2000 to 2008 and is praised for its relatable characters and addressing relevant social issues.
9. “Sex and the City” (1998-2004)
“Sex and the City” is a comedy-drama TV show that follows the lives of four women living in New York City. The main characters are Carrie Bradshaw, a columnist; Samantha Jones, a public relations executive; Charlotte York, an art dealer; and Miranda Hobbes, a lawyer. The series explores their friendships, romantic relationships, and careers, with a focus on themes of love, sex, and modern womanhood. The show is created by Darren Starr, the same creator as “Emily In Paris”. and based on the book by Candace Bushnell, the show stars Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Kristin Davis, and Cynthia Nixon. It originally aired from 1998 to 2004 and is known for its candid dialogue, fashion, and cultural impact.
10. “Sweet Magnolias” (2020-Present)
“Sweet Magnolias” is a drama TV show based on the book series by Sherryl Woods. It follows three lifelong friends, Maddie Townsend, Dana Sue Sullivan, and Helen Decatur, as they navigate personal and professional challenges in the small, close-knit town of Serenity, South Carolina. The series delves into their careers, relationships, and family lives, highlighting the strength of their friendship and community ties. The show stars JoAnna Garcia Swisher, Brooke Elliott, and Heather Headley. Premiering on Netflix in 2020, “Sweet Magnolias” is praised for its heartwarming and relatable storytelling.
11. “Virgin River” (2019-Present)
“Virgin River” is a drama TV show based on the book series by Robyn Carr. It follows Melinda Monroe, a nurse practitioner who moves to the small, picturesque town of Virgin River in Northern California to start over after a personal tragedy. As she settles into her new life, Mel encounters the challenges of small-town living, builds relationships with the locals, and faces her own emotional struggles. The series stars Alexandra Breckenridge, Martin Henderson, and Tim Matheson. Premiering on Netflix in 2019, “Virgin River” is known for its heartfelt storylines and scenic settings.
12. “Insecure” (2016-2021)
“Insecure” is a comedy-drama TV show created by and starring Issa Rae. It follows the life of Issa Dee, a young Black woman navigating her career, friendships, and romantic relationships in Los Angeles. The series explores themes of identity, self-discovery, and the complexities of modern relationships with a mix of humor and introspection. It features a diverse cast including Yvonne Orji, Jay Ellis, and Lisa Joyce. “Insecure” aired from 2016 to 2021 and received acclaim for its authentic portrayal of millennial life and its sharp writing.
If “Emily in Paris” had you hooked, you’re in for a treat! Check out these gems that pack the same punch of charm, wit, and drama: “Ugly Betty,” “Insecure,” “Girls,” “Sex and the City,” and “Younger.” Each series artfully blends humor with heartfelt moments, diving deep into the complexities of personal and professional lives. From the high-fashion hijinks and office antics in “Ugly Betty” and “Younger,” to the raw, real takes on friendship and love in “Insecure,” “Girls,” and “Sex and the City,” these shows are perfect for anyone who loves smart, character-driven storytelling with a dash of fabulous escapism.
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