10 shows like Young Sheldon to watch if you love quirky geniuses and heartfelt laughs

TV Shows like Young Sheldon | Images via Prime Video and Disney+
TV Shows like Young Sheldon | Images via Prime Video and Disney+

Young Sheldon enthusiasts usually desire a TV series or a show that combines advanced intellectual characteristics, genuine family relationships, and spontaneous humor. The fans appreciate Sheldon's eccentricity, fascinated by his peculiar intellectual nature and the heartwarming supporting cast of family and friends.

Each show on this list focuses on kid geniuses trying to fit into society as their families discover ways to support them (and in some cases, also their siblings!) and aid their individual growth and emotional experiences. The ten shows presented below offer the same concoction of laughter and insight into life that makes Young Sheldon so beloved to viewers.

Please note: This article is based on the writer's opinion. Reader discretion is advised.


The list of 10 shows like Young Sheldon to watch if you love quirky geniuses and heartfelt laughs is provided below:

10. The Big Bang Theory (2007-2019)

The Big Bang Theory | Image via Prime Video
The Big Bang Theory | Image via Prime Video

During the episode titled, VCR Illumination of The Big Bang Theory, the adult version of Sheldon encounters failure after his scientific hypothesis falls apart. Sheldon tries to find an old VHS movie of his past self offering him some mental assistance, however, he discovers a clip from his late father hidden inside. The tape includes his father (George Sr.) delivering a motivational lecture to Sheldon, teaching him how failure helps people grow. Sheldon finds the strength to persevere through this potent moment.

The moment in VCR Illumination replicates the positive dynamic Sheldon shared with his father during his youth in Young Sheldon. Sheldon attends a Stephen Hawking lecture at Caltech with his father in the episode titled Pasadena in Young Sheldon. The pair spends a meaningful time together in the food hall, implying Sheldon will one day become a part of this university.


9. Malcolm in the Middle (2000-2006)

Malcolm in the Middle | Image via Disney+
Malcolm in the Middle | Image via Disney+

Malcolm begins the show as a student who demonstrates high intellectual capacity and ends up in advanced learning classes. His life becomes complicated because social problems erupt from his "genius" status alongside the difficulties of living with an unorthodox family. The show paints a light-hearted and humorous picture as Malcolm grapples with his psychological struggles while trying to connect with others.

Since Sheldon is a kid genius, he encounters the same difficulties as Malcolm. He handles school matters alongside family issues. The protagonists have problems due to their high intelligence when attempting to bond with classmates and blood relations who are unaware of their unusual abilities.


8. Georgia & Mandy's First Marriage (2024- Currently Running)

Georgia & Mandy's First Marriage | Image via Prime Video
Georgia & Mandy's First Marriage | Image via Prime Video

In an episode titled, Some New York Nonsense of Georgia & Mandy's First Marriage, Georgie is facing enormous stress from managing fatherhood, marriage, and taking care of his family following his father's demise, George Sr.

At the cemetery, Georgie speaks to his late father about the things weighing down his heart. A panic attack leads him to the hospital, where doctors later diagnose his symptoms as anxiety, while he assumed he was suffering from heart problems. The medical professional explains that Georgie suffers from anxiety, which arises due to stress from his heavy responsibilities.

This scene touches viewers because it shows Georgia's weak state as she juggles her family duties. In Young Sheldon, the viewers witness Sheldon dealing with his intellectual pressures by feeling nervous during competitions and experiencing social exclusion. The characters show signs of emotional distress because they expect too much of themselves. This continuation of the Cooper family's story, which digs deeper into the characters' emotional complexity, will be appreciated by Young Sheldon fans.


7. The Middle (2009-2018)

The Middle | Image via Binge
The Middle | Image via Binge

In the first episode of The Middle, the Heck family is portrayed as a typical American family attempting to deal with the problems of everyday life in Indiana. The series presents the audience with hilarious and heartfelt moments as Frankie, the mother of Axl, Sue, and Brick, struggles to find a balance between work responsibilities, family obligations, and the pursuit of individual ambitions.

The episode shows Brick, the son who usually converses silently to himself, is fascinated by specific things. His family tries hard to understand and support him, even though his strange behavior frequently baffles them.

The Middle's treatment of Brick is comparable to how the family in Young Sheldon attempts to accommodate Sheldon's extraordinary brilliance and peculiar mannerisms. The two shows outline the authentic experiences of parenting an unusual child in typical American family units through love, acceptance, and life's comedic aspects.


6. Fuller House (2016-2020)

Fuller House | Image via Netflix
Fuller House | Image via Netflix

In Fuller House Season 4, Stephanie Tanner receives an offer from her closest friend, Kimmy Gibbler, to handle pregnancy as Stephanie wants children, but cannot conceive them. A significant part of this narrative illustrates the profound bond of friendship and familial backing. Kimmy's decision to become a mother is a poignant and amusing journey, for themselves as well as the viewers.

The family members in Young Sheldon demonstrate continuous support towards each other's difficult situations. In an episode, after Sheldon steals the show, the family comes together to show Missy that she is significant. The two series demonstrate the value family and friends provide to each other's lives when important events occur.


5. Abbott Elementary (2021- Currently Running)

Abbott Elementary | Image via Hulu
Abbott Elementary | Image via Hulu

In the Pilot episode of Abbott Elementary, Janine Teagues faces numerous difficulties in her classroom due to insufficient school funds. Teagues seeks multiple approaches to combat her classroom rug staining because the school lacks funds for a new purchase. Viewers see all the teachers band together to help her, exhibiting cooperation among coworkers.

This scenario is similar to Young Sheldon, in which teachers like Ms. Ingram and Mr. Given go far beyond to help Sheldon develop his gifts despite minimal means. Both shows demonstrate teachers' dedication and the power of collaboration in overcoming hurdles.


4. Doogie Howser, M.D. (1989-1993)

Doogie Howser, M.D. | Image via Disney+
Doogie Howser, M.D. | Image via Disney+

In the debut episode of Doogie Howser, M.D., viewers get to know Doogie, a successful 16-year-old doctor who also leads a typical adolescent life. Before the start of his driving test, Doogie has a transportation accident. His professional skills are instantly demonstrated when he offers medical assistance at a teenage level.

Young Sheldon is comparable to this in the sense that Sheldon's intellectual prowess, while still a youngster, causes him to encounter adult problems. Within a single episode, Sheldon poses as a college student to audit classes, and the professor becomes impressed by his outstanding knowledge and abilities. The youthful prodigies learn to handle their superior abilities while navigating typical teenage circumstances.


3. Smart Guy (1997-1999)

Smart Guy | Image via Disney+
Smart Guy | Image via Disney+

The pilot episode of Smart Guy introduces T.J. Henderson, who suddenly moves from elementary to high school due to his 10-year-old genius status. T.J.'s educational path peaks when he enrolls in his high school course. T.J.'s high IQ alters the dynamic between him and his brother Marcus. As a result, the scenario becomes both humorous and emotionally complex.

Similar to Young Sheldon, Sheldon visits high school at such a young age that he encounters regular friction with other classmates, senior year students, and teachers. The two episodes of similar TV shows chronicle the challenges of young geniuses who must deal with familial ties and unsupportive surroundings while pursuing fame.


2. Everybody Hates Chris (2005-2009)

Everybody Hates Chris | Image via Prime Video
Everybody Hates Chris | Image via Prime Video

Christine attends Corleone Junior High School, which is located in a predominantly white neighbourhood far beyond his Brooklyn residence in the debut episode of Everybody Hates Chris. On his first day at school, Greg becomes his fast friend among other outsiders. During school activities, Joey Caruso bullies Chris simply because his appearance and characteristics make him different from other students.

Young Sheldon displays a parallel situation when his intellectual gifts and social uncertainties make him uncomfortable in high school. Both programs demonstrate young boys creating bonds as they learn to face challenges when placed in unexpected environments. Fans of Young Sheldon will enjoy Chris' humorous and resilient journey through adolescence.


1. Community (2009-2015)

Community | Image via NBC
Community | Image via NBC

In the pilot episode of Community, viewers see Jeff Winger enroll at Greendale Community College to regain his disbarred status. His scheme to win Britta over with a Spanish study group error attracts a wide range of individuals. The team members argue with one another before developing bonds and creating a unique mutual connection.

Young Sheldon displays a similar dynamic to Sheldon as he bonds with his professors and students, regardless of their age and personality contrasts. Additionally, these two series present protagonists who establish unorthodox bonds with others as they build meaningful relationships humorously.


We can conclude that the ten TV shows listed replicate the endearing qualities and intellectual allure of Young Sheldon. Like Sheldon, the protagonists in these programs struggle with social integration due to their intelligence, but they also find unexpected sources of assistance.

Throughout the episodes, these programs present authentic moments that the audience can identify with.

Edited by IRMA