If you haven’t yet experienced the emotional journey of “The Fosters,” it’s time to jump in and be captivated by its heartwarming tale.
But don’t stop there, as HBO Max has a treasure trove of shows that will keep you hooked with their romance, drama, excitement, and emotional plots.
The Fosters Summary
Before diving into the list of shows, let’s revisit “The Fosters.” The series revolves around Leena and Steph, a lesbian couple who adopt a diverse group of children, each with their own struggles and triumphs. As the family faces challenges, they exemplify the true meaning of love, acceptance, and resilience.
Parenthood (2010)
| Director | IMDb Rating | Cast |
|---|---|---|
| Jason Katims | 8.3/10 | Peter Krause, Lauren Graham, Dax Shepard, Monica Potter |
Although aimed at a different audience, “Parenthood” shares a similar spirit with “The Fosters.” The show portrays the Braverman family as they navigate the challenges of adulthood and parenting. It delves into tough topics, such as autism, adoption, and the complexities of family relationships.
Switched at Birth (2011)
| Director | IMDb Rating | Cast |
|---|---|---|
| Sean Berdy | 7.7/10 | Katie Leclerc, Vanessa Marano, Constance Marie, D.W. Moffett, Lea Thompson |
This drama series follows two teenagers who discover they were switched at birth, leading them to explore their identities and the consequences of the life-changing mistake. Addressing themes of family, identity, and the impact of life-altering events, the show delves into poignant and emotional territory.
Good Trouble (2019)
| Director | IMDb Rating | Cast |
|---|---|---|
| Joanna Johnson, Peter Paige, Bradley Bredeweg | 7.5/10 | Cierra Ramirez, Zuri Adele, Sherry Cola, Emma Hunton, Tommy Martinez |
From the creators of “The Fosters,” “Good Trouble” follows Mariana and Callie in Los Angeles as they navigate their lives as young adults. In a communal living space called The Coterie, they discover a family they never asked for, facing inequality and adversity in their careers and personal lives.
Party of Five (1994)
| Director | IMDb Rating | Cast |
|---|---|---|
| Christopher Keyser and Amy Lippman | 6.8/10 | Scott Wolf, Matthew Fox, Neve Campbell, Lacey Chabert |
In this 2020 remake of “Party of Five,” the Acosta family experiences the devastating effects of deportation when their parents are suddenly deported. The show delves into identity and social politics, highlighting the resilience and strength of family bonds in the face of adversity.
This Is Us (2016)
| Director | IMDb Rating | Cast |
|---|---|---|
| Dan Fogelman | 8.7/10 | Milo Ventimiglia, Mandy Moore, Sterling K. Brown, Chrissy Metz |
With emotional storytelling and a focus on adoption, “This Is Us” follows the lives of individuals connected by family ties. It touches on various societal issues, mental health, and the lasting impact of parental loss, resonating with viewers of all ages.
Modern Love (2019)
| Director | IMDb Rating | Cast |
|---|---|---|
| John Carney | 8.0/10 | Anne Hathaway, Tina Fey, Dev Patel, Andy Garcia, Julia Garner |
“Modern Love” portrays the intertwined lives of families with a diverse range of experiences. With heartwarming and real-life stories, the show explores the complexities of modern relationships, love, and the many forms family can take.
The O.C. (2003)
| Director | IMDb Rating | Cast |
|---|---|---|
| Josh Schwartz | 7.5/10 | Mischa Barton, Adam Brody, Peter Gallagher, Kelly Rowan, Ben McKenzie |
“The O.C.” takes viewers to Orange County, where Ryan Atwood, a troubled youth, is adopted into the loving Cohen family. It humorously contrasts family values between the Cohens and the surrounding affluent families, tackling various teenage struggles in a captivating way.
On My Block (2018)
| Director | IMDb Rating | Cast |
|---|---|---|
| Lauren Iungerich, Eddie Gonzalez, Jeremy Haft | 7.9/10 | Sierra Capri, Jason Genao, Brett Gray, Diego Tinoco, Jessica Marie Garcia |
In “On My Block,” four friends navigate the challenges of adolescence in a predominantly Hispanic and black community. The show portrays a diverse cast and explores the trials of puberty and everyday life while maintaining a strong focus on friendship and growth.
One Tree Hill (2003)
| Director | IMDb Rating | Cast |
|---|---|---|
| Mark Schwahn | 7.7/10 | Chad Michael Murray, James Lafferty, Hilarie Burton, Bethany Joy Lenz, Sophia Bush |
“One Tree Hill” sets high standards for teen drama with its focus on high school students in Tree Hill, North Carolina. The series follows half-brothers who reconcile their differences and tackle various issues such as drug abuse, teen pregnancy, and the difficulties of parenting.
Degrassi: The Next Generation (2001)
| Director | IMDb Rating | Cast |
|---|---|---|
| Various | 7.3/10 | Stefan Brogren, Aislinn Paul, Melinda Shankar, A.J. Saudin, Shane Kippel |
Canadian teen drama T.V. series Degrassi: The Next Generation is the fourth installment in the long-running Degrassi franchise, which premiered in 1979. The show revolves around a group of students at Degrassi Community School, tackling a wide range of issues relevant to teenagers.
Conclusion
In 2023, HBO Max offers an impressive selection of shows that resonate with the spirit of “The Fosters.” Whether you’re in the mood for heartwarming family dramas or emotionally charged stories of resilience, these must-watch series will keep you engaged and inspired.
So, embark on these captivating journeys that celebrate the power of love, family, and the human spirit. Each show in this collection brings its unique storytelling and diverse cast to explore the complexities of life and relationships, making them truly unmissable experiences for viewers in Australia and beyond.
Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in these exceptional shows that will leave a lasting impact on your heart and mind. Enjoy the emotional rollercoaster ride that awaits you on HBO Max!
