Television has a unique ability to portray the reality that no family is truly perfect. The most compelling dysfunctional TV dramas emphasize this reality, revealing the complexities and secrets that lie beneath the surface. Whether it’s through power struggles or hidden truths, these families unravel in ways that are both captivating and chaotic. The critical acclaim and loyal fan bases suggest there’s something strangely enjoyable about witnessing the turmoil in another family’s life.
From opulent dynasties to households simmering with quiet resentments, these series delve into the intricate dynamics of belonging, betrayal, and the inevitable return to the family table. So, grab your popcorn and raise a toast to the messy, convoluted families that have kept us glued to our screens over the years.
10
‘Empire’ (2015–2020)
Created by Lee Daniels and Danny Strong
This groundbreaking FOX series, crafted by Lee Daniels and Danny Strong, delivers an exhilarating portrayal of the ruthless hip-hop music industry, where the Lyon family’s ambition and betrayals unfold as dramatically as their chart-topping hits. At the forefront are Terrence Howard as the formidable Lucious Lyon and Taraji P. Henson as his ex-wife Cookie, whose dynamic presence commands every scene.
For audiences drawn to extravagant family sagas steeped in excess, Empire offers a riveting exploration of the dysfunction within family dynamics. The show has garnered acclaim for its audacious storytelling and thoughtful examination of race, class, and sexuality, achieving pop culture status with soaring ratings and a Golden Globe win for Henson.
Empire
- Release Date
- 2015 – 2019
- Network
- FOX
9
‘The White Lotus’ (2021–)
Created by Mike White
Delving into the interconnected lives of guests and staff at luxurious resorts in Hawaii, Sicily, and Thailand, Mike White‘s The White Lotus has swiftly become a cornerstone of the “eat-the-rich” social commentary genre on television. Although it doesn’t focus exclusively on traditional families, each season thoughtfully examines the corrosive effects of wealth, privilege, and familial dysfunction, all delivered with a sharp comedic edge.
Dysfunction is a recurring theme in The White Lotus, as both families and guests navigate feelings of betrayal, resentment, and power dynamics, resulting in rich entertainment. Overall, Mike White’s much-loved series is a must-watch, especially during summer. Beyond its biting satire, it boasts high production values and exceptional performances from a talented ensemble cast, including Emmy winners Jennifer Coolidge and Murray Bartlett.
The White Lotus
- Release Date
- 2021 – 2024
- Network
- HBO
8
‘This Is Us’ (2016–2022)
Created by Dan Fogelman
Another quintessential family drama series, This Is Us is a sprawling, multi-generational saga that chronicles the complexities of the Pearson family over decades filled with love, heartbreak, and profound loss. At its core are Milo Ventimiglia as Jack and Mandy Moore as Rebecca, surrounded by an incredible cast including Sterling K. Brown as the brilliant but anxious Randall, Chrissy Metz as the insecure Kate, and Justin Hartley as the charming yet searching Kevin.
This Is Us stands out as an extraordinary showcase of emotional storytelling that is distinguished by its honest portrayal of dysfunction, addressing issues such as addiction, mental illness, grief, and the heartbreaking decline of memory. With its innovative narrative structure that seamlessly intertwines past, present, and future, this award-winning drama, boasting over 60 accolades, demonstrates that the most compelling stories often reflect the realities of our own lives.
This Is Us
- Release Date
- 2016 – 2022
- Network
- NBC
7
‘Shameless’ (2011–2021)
Created by Paul Abbott and John Wells
If dysfunction were an Olympic sport, Shameless would undoubtedly take home the gold medal. Created by Paul Abbott and John Wells, this American series presents a raucous yet surprisingly touching depiction of a family constantly on the brink of disaster. At the center is the struggling, absent patriarch Frank Gallagher (William H. Macy), while their mother (Chloe Webb) battles her own demons. The Gallagher siblings—including Emmy Rossum and Jeremy Allen White before The Bear—navigate the challenges of their chaotic lives.
Shameless boldly confronts taboo topics and presents family dysfunction with an unflinching lens, which adds to its emotional impact. While the family wrestles with numerous issues, their resilience and loyalty shine through. Coupled with stellar performances and a gripping narrative, it’s clear why Shameless has garnered a cult following in the genre.
Shameless
- Release Date
- 2011 – 2021
- Network
- Showtime
6
‘Big Little Lies’ (2017–2026)
Created by David E. Kelley
This series serves as a stark reminder that even the most beautiful exteriors can conceal the darkest truths. David E. Kelley‘s Big Little Lies is set in the seemingly idyllic community of Monterey, California, and follows five women—exemplarily portrayed by Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, Laura Dern, Shailene Woodley, and Zoë Kravitz—whose lives intertwine amidst marital strife and school politics, culminating in a murder that disrupts their carefully curated lives.
Big Little Lies is a quintessential study in the dysfunctional family genre, offering sharp insights into how privilege, trauma, and motherhood can push individuals to their breaking points. While it delves into the secrets we hide from one another, it also explores the lies we tell ourselves every day. With its award-winning performances, stylish direction, and captivating narrative, it’s no wonder that fans of intricate family dramas are drawn to this enthralling series. Excitingly, a new season of Big Little Lies is finally on the horizon.
Six Feet Under
- Release Date
- 2001 – 2005
- Network
- HBO
4
‘The Bear’ (2022–)
Created by Christopher Storer
Hulu’s dramedy, which can easily be mistaken for a straight drama, plunges viewers into the chaotic world of the restaurant industry. Emmy-winner Jeremy Allen White stars as Carmy, a Michelin-starred chef who returns to Chicago to rescue his late brother’s (Jon Bernthal) struggling sandwich shop with the assistance of Michael’s former team.
The Bear not only explores the intricacies of dysfunctional family ties but also embraces the notion of a found family; Carmy’s kitchen crew extends his bloodline—messy in their own right. The series examines the complexities of love that bind people and the enduring connections that can drive them to their limits. Given its authentic portrayal of restaurant life, dynamic performances, and universal themes, it’s no wonder that both critics and audiences have eagerly consumed (pun intended) The Bear.
The Bear
- Release Date
- June 23, 2022
- Network
- Hulu
3
‘The Sopranos’ (1999–2007)
Created by David Chase
David Chase created one of the most iconic television dramas of all time with this Max classic. The show centers on Tony (the late, brilliant James Gandolfini), a New Jersey mob boss whose panic attacks lead him to confide in psychiatrist Dr. Melfi (Lorrain Bracco), where he reveals his personal and family struggles.
From Tony’s tumultuous marriage to his children’s challenges with identity and morality, The Sopranos encapsulates familial dysfunction in a way that is both engaging and raw, solidifying its status as one of the gold standards for dysfunctional family dramas. The groundbreaking series has won over 21 Emmys, numerous Golden Globes, and continues to resonate with viewers due to its exceptional writing and unforgettable performances.
Breaking Bad
- Release Date
- 2008 – 2013
- Network
- AMC
1
‘Succession’ (2018–2023)
Created by Jesse Armstrong
Succession is the quintessential blueprint for family dysfunction in television. This award-winning series by Jesse Armstrong transforms boardroom conflicts into riveting family battles. The story follows the Roy siblings (Jeremy Strong, Sarah Snook, Kieran Culkin, and Alan Ruck), billionaire heirs to the global media empire Waystar RoyCo, as they vie for control amidst the decline of their patriarch Logan Roy’s (Brian Cox) health.
In Succession, every family gathering morphs into a power struggle, each day is filled with conflict, and nearly every act of manipulation is cloaked in familial affection. The series captures the brutal reality of a wealthy, deeply fractured family through explosive performances, sharp satire, and expertly crafted dialogue, solidifying its status as one of the most significant series in recent