In the world of television, there are few shows that have captured audiences quite like Scandal. The political drama, created by Shonda Rhimes, follows the life of Olivia Pope, a crisis management expert with a complicated personal life. The show is filled with twists, turns, and scandalous moments that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. If you’re a fan of Scandal and are looking for similar shows to watch, you’re in luck. There are plenty of other TV shows that offer the same level of intrigue, drama, and suspense. In this article, we’ll explore some TV shows like Scandal, along with 13 song examples that capture the essence of each show.
1. House of Cards
House of Cards is a political drama that follows the ruthless and ambitious Frank Underwood as he navigates the world of Washington D.C. politics. The show is filled with backstabbing, manipulation, and power struggles, much like Scandal. One song that captures the tone of House of Cards is “Demons” by Imagine Dragons. The haunting melody and intense lyrics mirror the dark and twisted world of politics portrayed in the show.
2. The Good Wife
The Good Wife follows Alicia Florrick, a lawyer who must rebuild her life and career after her husband’s scandalous fall from grace. The show is a mix of legal drama, political intrigue, and personal relationships. One song that embodies the spirit of The Good Wife is “Fight Song” by Rachel Platten. The empowering lyrics and anthemic chorus reflect Alicia’s journey to reclaim her life and stand up for herself in a male-dominated world.
3. Scandalous
Scandalous is a reality TV show that follows the lives of wealthy and powerful individuals as they navigate scandalous situations and personal drama. One song that captures the essence of Scandalous is “Bad Reputation” by Joan Jett. The rebellious and unapologetic attitude of the song mirrors the outrageous behavior and scandalous moments that unfold on the show.
4. Designated Survivor
Designated Survivor follows Tom Kirkman, a low-level cabinet member who becomes President of the United States after a catastrophic attack wipes out the government. The show combines political drama with action-packed suspense, much like Scandal. One song that fits the tone of Designated Survivor is “Radioactive” by Imagine Dragons. The energetic beat and powerful lyrics evoke the sense of urgency and chaos that permeates the show.
5. How to Get Away with Murder
How to Get Away with Murder follows Annalise Keating, a brilliant and ruthless criminal defense attorney who becomes entangled in a murder plot. The show is filled with twists, turns, and shocking revelations, much like Scandal. One song that captures the dark and suspenseful nature of How to Get Away with Murder is “Wicked Game” by Chris Isaak. The haunting melody and seductive lyrics mirror the dangerous and unpredictable world of the show.
6. Homeland
Homeland follows Carrie Mathison, a CIA officer with bipolar disorder who becomes convinced that a recently rescued American prisoner of war has been turned by Al-Qaeda. The show is a mix of political thriller, psychological drama, and espionage, much like Scandal. One song that captures the tension and paranoia of Homeland is “Mad World” by Gary Jules. The haunting melody and introspective lyrics mirror Carrie’s mental state and the high-stakes world of counterterrorism.
7. The West Wing
The West Wing follows the lives of the President of the United States and his staff as they navigate the challenges of running the country. The show is a mix of political drama, comedy, and personal relationships. One song that embodies the spirit of The West Wing is “The Times They Are A-Changin'” by Bob Dylan. The timeless lyrics and political undertones reflect the ever-evolving landscape of American politics portrayed in the show.
8. Veep
Veep follows Selina Meyer, the Vice President of the United States who becomes President after a series of unexpected events. The show is a satirical take on American politics, filled with sharp wit, clever dialogue, and hilarious situations. One song that fits the tone of Veep is “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars. The funky beat and playful lyrics mirror the fast-paced and absurd world of politics depicted in the show.
9. The Good Fight
The Good Fight follows Diane Lockhart, a lawyer who joins a prestigious Chicago law firm after her life is upended by a financial scam. The show is a mix of legal drama, political intrigue, and social commentary. One song that captures the spirit of The Good Fight is “Fight The Power” by Public Enemy. The bold lyrics and defiant attitude reflect Diane’s fight for justice and equality in a corrupt and unjust world.
10. Madam Secretary
Madam Secretary follows Elizabeth McCord, a former CIA analyst who becomes the Secretary of State. The show combines political drama with personal relationships, international crises, and ethical dilemmas. One song that embodies the spirit of Madam Secretary is “Roar” by Katy Perry. The empowering lyrics and anthemic chorus reflect Elizabeth’s strength, determination, and willingness to stand up for what she believes in.
11. House of Lies
House of Lies follows Marty Kaan, a ruthless and cunning management consultant who uses any means necessary to get the job done. The show is a mix of corporate intrigue, personal relationships, and moral ambiguity. One song that fits the tone of House of Lies is “Money” by Pink Floyd. The cynical lyrics and hypnotic rhythm mirror the cutthroat world of business and manipulation portrayed in the show.
12. The Newsroom
The Newsroom follows the lives of a cable news anchor and his team as they strive to deliver honest and impactful journalism in a world of sensationalism and political bias. The show is a mix of drama, comedy, and social commentary. One song that captures the spirit of The Newsroom is “We Didn’t Start The Fire” by Billy Joel. The rapid-fire lyrics and historical references reflect the fast-paced and tumultuous world of news and politics depicted in the show.
13. House of Lies
House of Lies follows Marty Kaan, a ruthless and cunning management consultant who uses any means necessary to get the job done. The show is a mix of corporate intrigue, personal relationships, and moral ambiguity. One song that fits the tone of House of Lies is “Money” by Pink Floyd. The cynical lyrics and hypnotic rhythm mirror the cutthroat world of business and manipulation portrayed in the show.
Now that you have a list of TV shows like Scandal and song examples that capture the essence of each show, you can dive into a world of drama, intrigue, and scandal. Whether you’re a fan of political thrillers, legal dramas, or corporate intrigue, there’s a show out there for you. So grab your popcorn, turn up the volume, and get ready to be swept away by the captivating stories and unforgettable characters of these TV shows.
**Common Questions:**
1. What is Scandal about?
– Scandal follows the life of Olivia Pope, a crisis management expert with a complicated personal life, as she navigates the world of Washington D.C. politics.
2. Who created Scandal?
– Scandal was created by Shonda Rhimes, the mastermind behind other hit TV shows like Grey’s Anatomy and How to Get Away with Murder.
3. What are some TV shows like Scandal?
– Some TV shows like Scandal include House of Cards, The Good Wife, How to Get Away with Murder, and Homeland, among others.
4. What song captures the essence of House of Cards?
– “Demons” by Imagine Dragons captures the dark and twisted world of politics portrayed in House of Cards.
5. Who stars in The Good Wife?
– The Good Wife stars Julianna Margulies as Alicia Florrick, a lawyer who must rebuild her life and career after her husband’s scandalous fall from grace.
6. What is Homeland about?
– Homeland follows Carrie Mathison, a CIA officer with bipolar disorder who becomes convinced that a recently rescued American prisoner of war has been turned by Al-Qaeda.
7. Who stars in The West Wing?
– The West Wing stars Martin Sheen as the President of the United States and Rob Lowe as his Deputy Communications Director.
8. What is Veep about?
– Veep follows Selina Meyer, the Vice President of the United States who becomes President after a series of unexpected events, in a satirical take on American politics.
9. Who stars in Madam Secretary?
– Madam Secretary stars Téa Leoni as Elizabeth McCord, a former CIA analyst who becomes the Secretary of State.
10. What song captures the essence of House of Lies?
– “Money” by Pink Floyd mirrors the cutthroat world of business and manipulation portrayed in House of Lies.
11. Who stars in The Newsroom?
– The Newsroom stars Jeff Daniels as a cable news anchor and Emily Mortimer as his executive producer, among others.
12. What is The Good Fight about?
– The Good Fight follows Diane Lockhart, a lawyer who joins a prestigious Chicago law firm after her life is upended by a financial scam.
13. Who stars in House of Lies?
– House of Lies stars Don Cheadle as Marty Kaan, a management consultant who uses any means necessary to get the job done.
14. What is House of Cards about?
– House of Cards follows the ruthless and ambitious Frank Underwood as he navigates the world of Washington D.C. politics through backstabbing, manipulation, and power struggles.
In conclusion, there are plenty of TV shows like Scandal that offer drama, intrigue, and scandalous moments to keep viewers entertained. From political thrillers to legal dramas to corporate intrigue, there’s a show out there for everyone. And with the right song to set the mood, you can truly immerse yourself in the captivating stories and unforgettable characters of these TV shows. So whether you’re a fan of intense political drama or thrilling espionage, there’s a show waiting for you to discover. Happy watching!