13 Best TV Shows Like Sweet Magnolias

Debuting on Netflix in spring 2020, “Sweet Magnolias” swiftly drew viewers in with the lives of Maddie Townsend (JoAnna Garcia Swisher), Helen Decatur (Heather Headley), and Dana Sue Sullivan (Brooke Elliot) – three lifelong friends from the South who share a strong bond. As they face challenges such as divorce, new romantic entanglements, or work-related issues, these women rely on each other unwaveringly. Adapted from Sherryl Woods’ book series, “Sweet Magnolias” began its fourth season in 2025.

The TV series “Sweet Magnolias,” filmed in Georgia, is actually set in the fictitious town of Serenity, South Carolina. It’s the small-town ambiance that captivates viewers and makes this show a favorite among many. Adored for its clever humor, endearing wit, exploration of friendship, and poignant emotional moments, “Sweet Magnolias” is one of the more outstanding series in its genre to emerge recently. However, it’s not the only worthwhile show in its category. Here are 13 other top-tier series that romantic drama enthusiasts will undoubtedly enjoy. Let’s dive into these 13 excellent series that “Sweet Magnolias” fans should consider watching next.

Virgin River

A collection of romantic dramas wouldn’t be whole without a mention of “Virgin River.” This Netflix original series has been popular for over six seasons, making it an obvious pick for fans of “Sweet Magnolias” seeking their next binge-worthy show. Blending elements of medical drama and love story, “Virgin River,” like “Magnolias,” focuses on a quiet town and the hidden turmoil that lies beneath its calm facade. The main character would blend seamlessly with the “Sweet Magnolias” gang enjoying margaritas together, which explains why “Virgin River” is often recommended.

Located beyond the famous, sunlit shores and promenades of California’s Golden State, the series “Virgin River” is set in the scenic Northern California area instead. Actress Alexandra Breckenridge, known for her roles in “American Horror Story” and “The Walking Dead,” plays Melinda Monroe, a healthcare worker who moved from bustling Los Angeles to the fictional town of Virgin River as an attempt to flee her intricate past. However, life in this rural setting proves no less chaotic, with incidents such as wildfires and shootings ensuring that her new existence remains just as tumultuous as her previous one.

Firefly Lane

Beginning on Netflix in early 2021 and based on a popular novel by Kristin Hannah, “Firefly Lane” is a series that introduces us to the characters Tully Hart (played by Katherine Heigl) and Kate Mularkey (portrayed by Sarah Chalke). Since their middle school days, these two have been inseparable best friends. The show traces their lives for the next three decades, detailing the ups and downs they face as life presents them with numerous challenges. With scenes of their past interspersed throughout, the series shows how they evolve into women who end up in different places after making tough decisions about balancing career and family responsibilities.

Similar to “Sweet Magnolias,” “Firefly Lane” delves into the complexities of female friendship across various life stages, from childhood to maturity. However, this series stands out due to its bold approach to drama, fearlessly addressing some of life’s weightier issues. Unlike the more uplifting tone that characterized shows like “Sweet Magnolias,” “Firefly Lane” offers a unique narrative perspective, with Katherine Heigl attributing its popularity to its unflinching portrayal of friendship’s imperfections.

Greenleaf

In and around Memphis, Tennessee, the Greenleaf family has established a significant reputation, not through a conventional business empire, but as the founders and leaders of Calvary Fellowship World Ministries, one of the most prominent megachurches in the region, often associated with the ‘Home of the Blues’. However, the family’s power dynamics are delicate, reliant on certain past events remaining hidden. This balance is disrupted when Gigi Greenleaf (Merle Dandridge), who had been absent for decades, returns to town and starts seeking answers about her past.

As a devoted admirer, I must share my excitement about diving back into dramatic acting on the small screen with “Greenleaf,” a captivating series airing on Oprah Winfrey’s network. It has been quite some time since I last graced the stage for a series as compelling as “Brewster Place” in 1990, but “Greenleaf” marks my triumphant return to this realm.

Although “Greenleaf” may seem worlds apart from the delightful charm of “Sweet Magnolias,” there is an undeniable familial drama and a distinct Southern essence that will strike a chord with fans of the Sherryl Woods-inspired series. In other words, while it offers something fresh and unique, it still delivers all the elements that made you fall in love with “Sweet Magnolias.

Ginny and Georgia

If you enjoyed the show “Sweet Magnolias” and appreciate the dynamic between mismatched mothers and daughters, give “Ginny and Georgia” a try. This series revolves around Georgia Miller (portrayed by Brianne Howey), a resilient young mother who has faced numerous challenges in her life. At only 15, she became a mother to Ginny (Antonia Gentry), and just a few years later, had another child. Her tumultuous romantic history, marked by problematic relationships, has prevented her family from finding lasting peace.

Georgia and her children could potentially change their circumstances once they move to the tranquil town of Wellsbury, Massachusetts; nonetheless, challenges may arise as remnants from Georgia’s past reemerge. Adjusting might not be straightforward, especially since Ginny struggles to adapt to their new surroundings, showing that a fresh start doesn’t always resolve underlying issues.

The series titled “Ginny and Georgia” delves deep into weighty subjects such as complex relationships and questionable political maneuvers, all while leaving us on the edge of our seats with a jaw-dropping season finale we won’t reveal. Yet, amidst these challenging themes, the show offers moments of witty, sometimes uncomfortable humor, and relationship turmoil that can be so intense you could slice it with a knife.

Sullivan’s Crossing

Facing mounting legal trouble at her Boston workplace due to a medical malpractice lawsuit, neurosurgeon Maggie Sullivan (played by Morgan Kohan in her debut role) decides to flee and seek refuge in Timberlake, Nova Scotia – a place with strong ties to her family. This tranquil, peaceful town offers a stark contrast to the heavy burden she carries. In addition to this legal struggle, Maggie is embroiled in a complex relationship with Andrew Mathews (Allan Hawco), and she may find herself drawn to Cal Jones (Chad Michael Murray, known from “Gilmore Girls”), another potential romantic interest, further complicating her situation.

Fans of “Sweet Magnolias” might find many elements they enjoy in “Sullivan’s Crossing”. On the other hand, viewers who were drawn to “Virgin River” will likely find much to appreciate here, as both shows are adaptations from the works of author Robyn Carr. Similar to those series, “Sullivan’s Crossing” features a skilled female medical professional moving away from her high-powered career for a peaceful existence in a small town, with a change from the U.S. setting to its northern neighbor. With its mix of adorable, sweet moments and more serious undertones, it offers everything one would expect from a well-crafted romantic drama.

Hart of Dixie

In modern romantic series, there’s usually a pattern where the main character, such as Rachel Bilson in “Hart of Dixie”, gives up a high-powered city career for a more peaceful lifestyle in a remote location. Despite her impressive abilities as a doctor in New York, Zoe Hart struggles to reach her goal of becoming a heart surgeon. At her boss’s suggestion, she finds herself applying for jobs elsewhere, and the only available position for her expertise is at a family practice – but it’s located far away from the city in a small town called Bluebell, Alabama.

In simpler terms, while some may criticize “Hart of Dixie” as being predictable or clichéd, it’s undeniable that its tried-and-true formula delivers the engaging drama we adore. Add to that a delightful Southern backdrop similar to shows like “Sweet Magnolias” and the Lowcountry, along with the typical romantic entanglements, and “Hart of Dixie” is an excellent choice for anyone looking for something to watch.

This is Us

Without a doubt, one standout television program in our selection is the NBC hit show “This is Us.” This critically praised, award-winning series is the brainchild of writer-director Dan Fogelman. The story unfolds across various locations and timeframes, revolving around the lives of siblings Kate (played by Chrissy Metz), Randall (Sterling K. Brown), and Kevin Pearson (Justin Hartley). It delves into their tumultuous journey from childhood to adulthood, exploring the intricate bonds they share and the complex relationships that evolve over time.

Throughout six captivating seasons, viewers are granted an intimate peek into the Pearson family’s journey as they navigate life’s hardships in a relentless world. The story unfolds through the lens of parents Jack (Milo Ventimiglia) and Rebecca Pearson (Mandy Moore), who face heartache when they lose their newborn son, leading them to adopt Randall, who later seeks to reunite with his biological parents. This narrative employs a unique non-linear structure, incorporating flashbacks and flashforwards, revealing that each child experienced hardships; Kevin grappled with finding meaning in life, while Kate fought weight issues throughout her adulthood.

This Is Us” could be considered the most dramatic contrast among these options, since shows like “Sweet Magnolias,” which are characterized by a consistently comforting ambiance, won’t resonate here. However, for every heartwarming and identifiable moment the Pearson family experiences, there seems to be an equally sorrowful one lurking nearby. Yet, this balance only enhances the joy of their triumphs, making the series all the more effective in connecting with viewers.

When Calls the Heart

As a fan, I must say that “When Calls the Heart” stands out from most contemporary shows, offering a refreshing time travel experience back to Coal Valley, a small Canadian mining settlement just after the turn of the century. In this role, I’m a newcomer like Elizabeth Thatcher (played by Erin Krakow), an urbanite seeking employment and taking up the mantle of schoolteacher in this tough-as-nails town. The community is still reeling from a mining accident that claimed many lives, and it falls on survivors like me to help rebuild this shattered town while also navigating the complexities of love.

This time around, we’re discussing another TV show adaptation, specifically the long-running series “When Calls the Heart,” based on the novel by Canadian author Janette Oke. For 12 seasons now, it has been captivating audiences on the Hallmark Channel. What makes it stand out is its clever blend of fish-out-of-water humor with an engaging historical context, making it a perfect choice for viewers who enjoy a fresh take on the genre reminiscent of “Sweet Magnolias.

Chesapeake Shores

Despite the fact that “Sweet Magnolias” is currently the most talked-about adaptation of Sherryl Woods’ novels, it wasn’t the first series based on her books to be adapted for television. In fact, a few years before the premiere of “Sweet Magnolias,” the Hallmark channel introduced “Chesapeake Shores,” a romantic drama that shares some key differences with its counterpart but still maintains the upbeat tone and powerful family themes that fans of “Sweet Magnolias” would appreciate.

Years ago, I bid adieu to the tranquil coastal town of Chesapeake Shores, opting for a bustling career in the concrete jungle of New York City. However, when my sister’s financial troubles jeopardize her business, I’m compelled to revisit chapters from my past that I’d rather leave untouched. The intricate web of family dynamics, a shattered marriage, and my daughters add layers to the drama. Initially, this predicament seemed an insurmountable hurdle; but surprisingly, it morphed into an opportunity for me, offering a chance to reconnect with my roots. I find myself torn between the allure of the city and the pull of my hometown, wrestling with the decision that lies ahead.

Gilmore Girls

Originally conceived by Amy Sherman-Palladino, who later created “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” a unique female-driven period drama, “Gilmore Girls” first aired in autumn 2000, marking it as our oldest entry and a show that quickly gained a devoted following. The series primarily focused on the dynamic mother-daughter bond between Lorelai (portrayed by Lauren Graham) and Rory Gilmore (Alexis Bledel). It offered a glimpse into their daily lives in the peaceful town of Stars Hollow, inspired by an enchanting Connecticut village, complete with a mix of successful and unsuccessful romances, ambitions for Ivy League education, and numerous unexpected events that unfolded across the show’s seven seasons.

Without a doubt, “Gilmore Girls” is an essential watch for fans of “Sweet Magnolias,” or anyone seeking a highly entertaining blend of comedy and drama series to binge-watch. Featuring rapid-fire dialogue that’s both sharp and funny, quirky supporting characters similar to those in “Sweet Magnolias,” and the charming small-town ambiance of Stars Hollow, the show excelled as an ideal comfort watch during the early 2000s. Notably, nearly a decade after its initial conclusion, it resurfaced on Netflix for a limited four-episode run titled “Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life,” offering fans a long-awaited peek into what happened to their beloved characters over time.

Heartland

In addition to America’s heartland, settings for shows like “Sweet Magnolias” can also be found elsewhere, such as Canada, where the original series “Heartland” is based. Unlike any other show on our list, “Heartland,” airing on CBC Television, explores a unique theme. The Fleming family, who are skilled in rehabilitating injured horses due to their rural ranching lifestyle, often find themselves entangled in romantic proposals, heart-wrenching tragedies, and the various twists and turns that life brings their way when not caring for their equine companions.

First airing in 2007 and boasting an astonishing 18 seasons as of 2025, “Heartland” stands out as one of the longest-running hour-long dramas in Canada, just trailing behind “Murdoch.” Originating from a series of novels by author Lauren Brooke, this enduring series allows viewers to witness its main character, Amy Fleming (played by Amber Marshall), mature alongside them. Initially portrayed as a young rancher, Amy rises through the ranks to become a vital figure in the story. Though diving into it from the beginning is quite a commitment, not many shows make it that far without merit. If you’re seeking a comfortable viewing experience, family drama, or simply adore horses, “Heartland” is undoubtedly a top pick.

Good Witch

In the small-town series “Good Witch,” based on “Sweet Magnolias,” a dash of fantasy is woven in. The story unfolds in Middleton, a seemingly ordinary village that conceals a remarkable secret within one of its residents, Cassie Nightingale (played by Catherine Bell). At first sight, she appears to be an average widowed mother running a bookstore and seeking romance. However, beyond these everyday roles, Cassie is also a secret practitioner of the occult. Unlike her ominous title might suggest, Cassie uses her magical abilities not for evil purposes but to try to improve the lives of those around her.

Among the shows listed, “Good Witch” stands out by veering away from real-life scenarios. It cleverly combines classic elements of romance and family comedy/drama with a touch of the mysterious and supernatural. Originating as a series based on six Hallmark Channel films, this popular show resumed Cassie Nightingale’s story in Middleton, picking up where the movies ended in early 2015. Although it may not delve deep into mature topics compared to shows like “Sweet Magnolias,” its captivating appeal and heartwarming moments compensate for this, resulting in a delightful tale suitable for all ages.

Everwood

In the series “Everwood,” we’re introduced to Andrew Brown (played by Treat Williams), a former surgeon in bustling New York City, who relocates to Everwood, Colorado following his wife’s demise. Accompanying him are his two offspring, Ephram (Gregory Smith) and Delia (Vivien Cardone). Adapting to their new surroundings in the small mountain town of Everwood requires them to deal with grief, relocation, and a significant life change. This transition brings about difficulties as well as fresh possibilities, testing the ties that bind them but also offering chances for growth and renewed connections, as they figure out how best to proceed in this new phase of their lives.

Competing against shows like “Freaks and Geeks,” “One Tree Hill,” and “Gilmore Girls,” which were all popular among young adults, “Everwood” tackled some heavy subjects during its run. Created by Greg Berlanti, who also created the hit ’90s teen drama “Dawson’s Creek,” “Everwood” skillfully blended everyday drama and personal relationship issues with themes of grief and loss, as the Brown family grappled with the loss of one of their own.

Although there are some heavy moments, “Everwood” also includes humorous scenes and offers an early, lesser-known performance by Chris Pratt. This appearance came before he became well-known for his roles on “Parks and Recreation” and in Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy.

2025-04-08 14:32