Gossip Girlmay not have been the absolute best show of its era, nor was it the most brilliant, but it reigned supreme. It was the height of popular culture in its era and was irresistibly captivating. This chic series struck the perfect balance, offering a dose of scheming, romance, manipulation, and messy teen drama to keep viewers yearning for more, not forgetting the fashion and Upper East New York settings, which were certainly alluring. The characters’ lives, even if they were a tad silly at times, were undeniably entertaining and perhaps relatable to some extent.
Its time is gone, but there are other interestingdramaslike it in recent times. HBO rebooted this iconic series in 2021, but it didn’thold up to the originaland was subsequently canceled in January 2023. The truth is no show can be exactly likeGossip Girl, even if it bears the same title as the popular series. Yet, the nostalgia to see something that feels like it won’t just go away. Hence, the need for a curated list that presents shows that deliver the same brand of intense drama, scheming and intrigue arises. FromEuphoriatoElite, here are new TV dramas that can ignite that unmistakableGossip Girlvibe.
15Euphoria (2019-Present)
Euphoriais a guilty pleasure that will have many coming back for more. Created by Sam Levinson and loosely based on an Israeli miniseries, it follows a group of high school students as they navigate the complexities of love, trauma, addiction, and identity. The HBO drama predominantly revolves around main characters such as Rue, Nate Jacobs, Maddy, Jules, and many others. It’s as dark as any teen drama can get and unflinching in its portrayal of what youth’s of today face.
The show has received critical acclaim for its writing, compelling storytelling, striking visuals, top-notch performances, and for tackling relevant topics. WhileGossip Girlis known for its glamorous and light-hearted portrayal of privileged students,Euphoriais grittier and more realistic in its portrayal. Nonetheless, if you’re longing for something akin toGossip Girl,Euphoriais worth a watch.
14Gossip Girl (2021-2023)
Max’sGossip Girlreboot may be the closest thing to the original series since it follows privileged New York teens who use social media to expose the secrets and scandals of the wealthy. Known as the updated and modern take on the originalGossip Girlseries, it primarily revolves around a diverse group of teenagers attending the elite Constance Billard St. Jude’s School, each with their own unique personality, struggles, and hidden truths.
While the reboot shares many similarities to the original, it didn’t garner the same level of adoration. The reboot was not well-received and, perVulture, Max canceled it after just two seasons. Perhaps not every show needs a reboot. That said, it isn’t complete garbage, and there will likely be viewers who enjoy it.
13Blood & Water (2020-Present)
Set in Cape Town, South Africa,Blood & Wateris a grippingteen drama infused with mystery. It follows Puleng, a high school student who becomes obsessed with a new classmate because of her striking resemblance to her long-lost sister. Her search for the truth leads her into the secretive world of the school’s elite, where she uncovers lies, secrets, and scandals that are all too common. The series combines elements of drama and suspense, making it a highly engaging and entertaining watch for viewers.
Blood & Wateris truly a high quality television series with great acting and a well-written plot. Yes, it may seem somewhat clichéd at times, but the never-ending mystery and complex storyline more than compensate for that. For those seeking a Gossip Girl type of show in a fresh setting, this is worth checking out.
12The Bold Type (2017-2021)
The Bold Typefocuses on three best friends who work at the fictional Scarlet Magazine in New York City, and their lives are full of drama, glamour, and friendship of course. The series delves into the personal and professional challenges these characters face and their unwavering support for each other regardless of what happens. It has been praised for its portrayal of strong independent young women who support each other and work hard to break down societal barriers.
The Bold Typemay not be the direct replacement forGossip Girlsince they have distinct themes and settings, however, they both revolve around young women living in a glamorous New York City, and there’s romance, drama, and even comedy to keep many entertained. There’s no scheming or betrayal among friends, but it’s a delightful character-driven show to lose yourself in.
11Get Even (2020)
InGossip Girl, an anonymous blogger known as Gossip Girl spills the secrets of the rich and privileged, while inGet Evena group of girls known as DGM (short for Don’t Get Mad) expose the secrets of bullies, wrongdoers, and those who have escaped the school’s justice. Each member of this group has their own reason for joining the group, and they remain united by their common goal.
This series is based on the book seriesDon’t Get Madby Gretchen McNeil and intertwines elements of murder mystery, drama, and high school life to present an intriguing storyline. While the series may have a slow start, it eventually transforms into a gripping and empowering teen drama with strong acting and cool visuals. However, while some feel the plot isn’t predictable, others feel it has nothing new to offer.
10Trinkets (2019-2020)
Based on the young adult novel of the same name by Kristen Smith,this coming-of-age dramafollows the lives of three teenage girls who form an unlikely friendship through their shared experience of attending Shoplifters Anonymous meetings. ThroughoutTrinkets, the girls support each other to break free from their shoplifting addiction and have a sense of belonging. They also navigate the ups and downs of high school life while trying to keep their newfound friendship a secret.
The show is known for its combination of heartfelt moments with humor and drama to provide a genuine and relatable portrayal of teenage struggle. It is an easy watch, even if the characters and storylines may seem rather cliched. There may not be much glamour or suspense in it, yet it stands as an enjoyable choice for fans of teen dramas.
Related:Most Underrated Coming of Age Movies
9Elite (2018-Present)
EliteandGossip Girlboth center on the lives of privileged young people and their complex relationships. However,Elitedistinguishes itself with a Spanish flair, incorporating elements of murder mystery and crime drama, and carrying a more mature and intense than toneGossip Girl. Set in Las Encinas, an exclusive private school in Spain, it revolves around three scholarship students who enter this elite world after their school collapses.
As they try to get used to their new environment, tensions rise and things take a sinister turn when one of them is murdered. While some find the use of drugs and the exploration of the darker side of teen life inEliteto be excessive, it doesn’t change the fact that this may be relatable and intriguing for certain viewers.
8Revenge (2011-2015)
Across its four seasons,Revengeunfolds the tale of Emilia Thorne, whose name is originally Amanda Clarke. However, after her life is turned upside down at a young age when her father is wrongfully accused and subsequently dies in prison, she takes it upon herself to exact vengeance upon the upper class in Hampton. Adopting the new name, Emilia Thorne, she sets out to destroy the Grayson family particularly, who were at the center of the conspiracy.
The series weaves an intricate plot rife with twists and turns, betrayals and moral dilemmas as Emily’s quest takes an unexpected turn. Much likeGossip Girl, it offers a heart-pounding rollercoaster ride of suspense, drama, and intrigue. It exudes a dark, smart and humorous vibe, boasting well-developed characters that enrich the story’s depth.
Related:17 Best Teen Drama TV Series of the Past Decade, Ranked
7Dynasty (2017-2022)
Dynastyis a revival of a classic soap-opera known for its family feuds, extravagant theatrics, and glamorous settings, with its tone and storyline different fromGossip Girl, yet it works as an enjoyable drama about the rich that will fill the void left byGossip Girl. It is undeniably a captivating and addictive show.
Based on 1980 prime time soap opera of the same name, it follows the drama within the Carrington family and their constant clashes with the Colby clan. Liz Gilles plays Fallon Carrington admirably well, reminding viewers of Pamela Sue’s portrayal in the 1980s series and the rest of the cast is as impressive. The show has just the proper blend of romance, drama and comedy to keep things exciting. However, despite the mixed reviews it received, this show wascanceled by CW after fiveseasons.
6Riverdale (2017-2023)
Riverdalemay not revolve around affluent social circles, but it has plenty of teen drama and mystery, with a touch of the supernaturalto maintain a compelling allure. It is set in the small town of Riverdale, and the challenges characters face are highly entertaining. There are also really dark secrets and scandals that plague the lives of Archie and friends, which are revealed as the series evolves, adding to the drama and tension in the show.
The show also delves into the complex love triangles between characters and the complicated dynamics. With a cast of interesting characters, it offers just the perfect enjoyable escapism, no matter how ridiculous it may seem from season to season. It works fine as a nice teen soap-opera and would be most appreciated by those who do not take it too seriously.
