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What to Watch After The Thick of It
From Westminster to the White House: Four Must‑Watch Picks for Fans of Political Satire
If you love the razor‑edge political satire of The Thick of It, you’ll find a surprisingly eclectic quartet waiting to satisfy that craving for sharp wit, power‑play intrigue, and chaotic workplaces. First up is The Residence, a brand‑new Netflix whodunit set inside the White House, where an eccentric detective untangles murder, class tension, and back‑room maneuvering – a perfect modern echo of Westminster’s spin‑filled corridors. Next, Inside Job delivers a wildly inventive animated take on the deep‑state, pairing absurd conspiracy theory with a workplace comedy sensibility that feels like The Thick of It’s spirit in cartoon form. For a taste of timeless British satire, Blackadder offers a historic romp through centuries of power, proving that the same cynical humor that skewers modern ministers can thrive in any era. Finally, The Outlaws gathers a rag‑tag crew of Bristol misfits forced into a community‑service scheme that spirals into criminal danger, a gritty yet comedic ensemble that mirrors the show’s love of flawed characters battling bureaucratic absurdity.
Together, these picks illustrate the many ways political satire can be reimagined – from fresh, high‑stakes murder mysteries and animated conspiracies to classic period lampoons and gritty ensemble dramas. Whether you’re after a brand‑new series that feels like a contemporary spin‑doctor’s nightmare, a beloved animated cult hit, a timeless British classic, or a gritty, audience‑approved crime comedy, each title captures a facet of The Thick of It’s appeal while delivering something distinctively fresh. Dive in and discover how the world of power, politics, and workplace chaos can be both timeless and ever‑evolving.
Why these shows are similar to The Thick of It
Set in the corridors of power and spin, the Minister for Social Affairs is continually harassed by Number 10's policy enforcer and dependent on his not-so-reliable team of civil servants.
These recommendations branch out from The Thick of It with similar tone, themes, genre elements, or audience appeal.
The Residence
TV • 2025
comedy
Why Watch Next
A fresh, politically‑charged murder mystery that riffs on the inner‑workings of power, offering the same sharp satire and bureaucratic chaos that fans love about The Thick of It.
Overview
A brilliant, eccentric detective must solve a murder in the White House residence — where the staff and guests at a state dinner are all suspects.
Inside Job
TV • 2021
comedy • animation
Why Watch Next
This animated cult favorite blends absurdist humor with a behind‑the‑scenes look at secret‑government machinations, echoing the biting workplace satire that makes The Thick of It a fan favorite.
Overview
For employees of the Deep State, conspiracies aren't just theories — they're fact. And keeping them a secret is a full-time job.
Blackadder
TV • 1983
comedy
Why Watch Next
A classic British comedy that uses period settings to lampoon power structures, delivering the same razor‑sharp wit and cynical characters that defined The Thick of It.
Overview
Blackadder traces the deeply cynical and self-serving lineage of various Edmund Blackadders throughout British history, from the muck of the Middle Ages to the frontline of The Great War.
The Outlaws
TV • 2021
comedy • crime • drama
Why Watch Next
A modern ensemble drama that pits unlikely allies against a criminal underworld, mirroring the thematic clash of ambition, incompetence, and political intrigue that audiences adore in The Thick of It.
Overview
Seven strangers from different walks of life - people who would never normally interact - are forced to work together to renovate a derelict community centre. They resent the menial physical labour and they resent each other. But when one of their number gets dragged into a dangerous world of organised crime, they unite in ways none of them thought possible.
More shows and movies featuring actors from The Thick of It
Looking for familiar faces? These picks include performers connected to The Thick of It.
Criminal Record
TV • 2024
Why It’s Relevant
This gritty London crime drama shares The Thick of It's sharp, confrontational tone and political intrigue, and features Peter Capaldi in a top‑billed role.
The Devil's Hour
TV • 2022
Why It’s Relevant
A dark, suspense‑filled mystery that mirrors the series' cynical edge while showcasing Capaldi’s strong performance in a critically acclaimed production.
Watership Down
TV • 2018
Why It’s Relevant
Though a departure in genre, this animated drama’s bleak atmosphere and themes of survival echo the satirical undercurrents of The Thick of It.