What to watch next? The predecessors and successors of My So-Called Life.

So My So-Called Life is over once again - now what other show or movie could fit into this empty place in our hearts?

The Breakfast Club (1985): This classic laid the groundwork for authentic teen storytelling, which obviously influenced My So-Called Life. Brian Krakow is basically a reincarnation of Brian Johnson (who was also called "The Brain" in the movie), while John Bender feels like a darker, more chaotic version of Jordan Catalano. And weirdo Allison is like a gothic prototype for Rayanne. It's required watching if you ask me.

The Wonder Years (1988–1993): The nostalgic vibes and heartfelt voiceovers in The Wonder Years definitely paved the way for My So-Called Life. Both shows have that bittersweet tone about growing up, though The Wonder Years is more family-friendly and funny and set in the late '60s. Still, you can totally feel the influence. Rewatching it i have to say it aged very well, it's very well written, even for today's standards. (Rayanne and Sharon can be seen in S6E17!)

Thirtysomething (1987–1991): This was made by the producers of My So-Called Life. It’s all about grown-up relationships and personal struggles, so if you’re into the Patty/Graham/Camille drama on MSCL, i guess it's worth checking out. I’ve been meaning to watch it forever.

Dawson’s Creek (1998–2003): Kevin Williamson straight-up said MSCL was a big influence on this one. It takes that introspective teen drama vibe and adds more romance and soapiness. Sometimes it’s kind of a mixed bag - some of the storylines get a little nuts - but the dialogues are amazing! Seasons 1–4 are definitely worth your time.

Felicity (1998–2002): If MSCL went to college, it’d be Felicity. The visuals look strikingly similar and it has music by W.G. Snuffy Walden (the same guy who scored MSCL and The Wonder Years), adding to that similar vibe. Show creator J.J. Abrams has also said teen dramas like MSCL inspired him.

Fucking Åmål (Show Me Love) (1998): This Swedish movie feels like MSCL in its very raw portrayal of teenage emotions. It’s about identity and love in a small town and it handles same-sex love in the same natural way like MSCL treated Rickie’s storyline without making it feel forced or preachy. A MUST-WATCH IMHO.

Freaks and Geeks (1999–2000): Set in 1981, this show is like the spiritual successor to both MSCL and The Wonder Years. It nails that awkward teenage authenticity and struggles in such a real way. Like MSCL, it only lasted one season but became a total cult classic later on. 100% recommended.

Euphoria (2019–present): Showrunner Sam Levinson has mentioned MSCL as an inspiration for Euphoria, for example the street lighting at night in Euphoria was inspired by MSCL. Both shows dive deep into heavy topics like addiction and identity but Euphoria is MSCL on overdrive, with brutal honesty, way darker and more stylized. And Rue's sister Gia is watching MSCL on her laptop in bed!

"Whatcha doin'?"

-"Watching My So-Called Life."

"Fuckin' Jordan Catalano."

-"I know, right?"

"Right. Please promise me you will never fall for a Jordan Catalano."

-"But he's so cute."

Grand Army (2020): Another one-season wonder that gets compared to MSCL for its raw take on teenage life. This is what MSCL would have looked like if it had been done in the now-time. Sadly Covid and some "woke controversies" at the set ended this show prematurely. But the season we have is worth being watched in any case!