Finished binging the latest season of The Umbrella Academy on Netflix and now you’re left with a superhero-sized hole in your heart? I feel you, my friend. That dysfunctional Hargreeves family really knows how to leave you wanting more.
But don’t worry, I’ve got your back. I’ve scoured the streaming services and compiled a list of 9 shows that’ll scratch that same itch for quirky, superpowered ensemble casts and world-ending stakes. Whether you’re in the mood for some dark humor, a dash of sci-fi, or just plain old family drama, there’s something here for every Umbrella Academy fan.
So grab some snacks, get cozy on the couch, and get ready to discover your next binge-worthy obsession. Let’s dive in, shall we?
Doom Patrol (2019 – Present)
If you loved the ragtag group of misfits in The Umbrella Academy, then Doom Patrol is an absolute must-watch. This DC series follows a band of superpowered outcasts who come together to investigate the strange and unexplained. With a healthy dose of dark humor and plenty of heart, Doom Patrol delivers the same quirky, character-driven vibes as our favorite Hargreeves clan.
Deadly Class (2018 – 2019)
Set in the 1980s, Deadly Class puts a twisted spin on the classic “school for superheroes” trope. Instead of training to save the world, these students are learning to become elite assassins. With its gritty aesthetic and high-stakes drama, this comic book adaptation will definitely appeal to Umbrella Academy fans looking for another edgy, genre-bending series.
Misfits (2009 – 2013)
Speaking of quirky groups with superpowers, the British series Misfits is another must-see for Umbrella Academy devotees. When a group of young offenders are struck by a mysterious electrical storm, they find themselves suddenly endowed with a variety of bizarre abilities. Like the Hargreeves, these misfits have to learn to work together, all while navigating the challenges of growing up and coming to terms with their newfound powers.
Succession (2018 – Present)
Okay, hear me out on this one. While Succession may not have any superpowers or world-ending threats, it does share some key DNA with The Umbrella Academy. At its core, it’s a story about a dysfunctional family vying for control of a powerful empire. The power struggles, sibling rivalries, and family drama are just as captivating as any superhero showdown.
Watchmen (2019)
If you’re craving more thought-provoking, genre-bending superhero stories, then Watchmen is the perfect follow-up to The Umbrella Academy. Set in an alternate reality where masked vigilantes are real, this HBO series explores complex themes of race, power, and the legacy of heroism. With its mind-bending plot twists and visually stunning aesthetic, Watchmen is a must-watch for any fan of cerebral, high-stakes superhero tales.
Sense8 (2015 – 2018)
Created by the Wachowskis, Sense8 is a mind-bending sci-fi series that shares The Umbrella Academy’s focus on the powerful bonds between a diverse ensemble cast. When eight strangers from around the world suddenly find themselves psychically linked, they must learn to harness their newfound abilities to evade a shadowy organization. With its global scope and themes of empathy and interconnectedness, Sense8 is a truly unique and captivating viewing experience.
Orphan Black (2013 – 2017)
If you’re a fan of The Umbrella Academy’s complex, ever-evolving storylines, then Orphan Black is another series that’s sure to scratch that itch. This sci-fi thriller follows Sarah, a woman who discovers she’s part of a clone conspiracy. As she unravels the mystery, she encounters a diverse group of clones, each with their own unique personalities and agendas. With its mind-bending twists and Tatiana Maslany’s tour-de-force performance, Orphan Black is a must-watch for any Umbrella Academy devotee.
Legion (2017 – 2019)
Based on the Marvel Comics character, Legion is a visually stunning and mind-bending exploration of mental illness and the nature of reality. Like The Umbrella Academy, it features a powerful, unconventional protagonist grappling with their own identity and the weight of their abilities. With its surreal, dreamlike aesthetic and deep dive into the psyche, Legion is a must-see for fans of the Hargreeves’ more cerebral adventures.
The Boys (2019 – Present)
If you’re craving more superhero shenanigans with a deliciously dark twist, then The Boys is the show for you. This Amazon Prime series flips the script, following a group of vigilantes who set out to take down corrupt, celebrity-like superheroes. With its irreverent humor, gritty action, and commentary on the abuse of power, The Boys offers a refreshingly subversive take on the genre that Umbrella Academy fans are sure to devour.
So there you have it, my fellow Umbrella Academy enthusiasts. Whether you’re in the mood for more quirky misfits, dysfunctional families, or mind-bending sci-fi, this list has got you covered. Happy binging, and may the next show you discover fill that Hargreeves-shaped hole in your heart.
