🎥 Lights, Camera, Binge! Must-Watch Films & TV Shows Every Actor Needs on Their List.

Every actor knows the feeling—craving the thrill of Hollywood, the magic of Broadway, and the raw hustle of the industry. The good news? You can soak it all in from the comfort of your couch with this ultimate lineup of films and TV shows.

As actors, we can learn a lot from these stories—the highs, the lows, and the creative chaos that comes with life in show-biz. Sure, you’ll find moments of actor wisdom woven throughout, but let’s be real—some scenes are so wildly over-the-top, they exist purely for our entertainment. So take what serves you, laugh at the rest, revel in the ridiculousness, and enjoy the ride. Whether you need inspiration, motivation, or just a behind-the-scenes escape, below is your ultimate actor’s watch-list.

I’ve divided everything into TV Shows, Films, and Unscripted Shows so you can find exactly what fits your mood. 🎭🍿

TELEVISION SHOWS:

🎥About Hollywood & TV/Film Industry🎥

• 30 Rock (2006–2013) – A hilarious, self-aware sitcom about the absurdity of television production.

• BoJack Horseman (2014–2020) – Dark comedy meets Hollywood satire in this animated deep dive into fame and self-destruction.

• Barry (2018–2023) – A hitman turned actor? Bill Hader’s comedy-drama nails the biz’s absurdity.

• Episodes (2011–2017) – Matt LeBlanc plays a fictionalized version of himself in this sharp Hollywood satire.

• Entourage (2004–2011) – Hollywood’s fast-paced, ego-driven world through the eyes of an up-and-coming actor.

• Extras (2005–2007) – Ricky Gervais’ painfully funny take on struggling actors.

• Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip (2006–2007) – A smart, fast-paced drama set behind the scenes of a sketch comedy show.

• The Comeback (2005, 2014) – Lisa Kudrow’s genius portrayal of an aging actress desperate for a second chance.

• The Kominsky Method (2018-2021)  With humor, heart and the masterful performances by Michael Douglas and Alan Arkin, this show is about an aging acting coach in Hollywood and his agent friend as they face life's later chapters with humor and heart.  

• The Larry Sanders Show (1992–1998) – An "oldie but goodie" that set the gold standard for behind-the-scenes comedy.

• The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (2017–2023) – While focused on stand-up comedy, it’s an actor’s dream-come-true story.

•  The Studio (2025–) – Seth Rogan stars as the newly appointed head of film studio; desperate for celebrity approval, juggling corporate demands with creative ambitions as he tries to keep movies alive and relevant.
  

TELEVISION SHOWS:

🎭About Broadway & Theater World🎭

• Fosse/Verdon (2019) – A stunning deep dive into the legendary Broadway power couple.

• Glee (2009–2015) – A high-energy dramedy about a high school glee club, full of Broadway-worthy performances and musical theater dreams.

• High School Musical: The Musical: The Series (2019–2023) – Pure theater kid joy, with plenty of behind-the-scenes drama.

• Slings & Arrows (2003–2006) – A hilarious, niche Canadian series about a Shakespearean theater company.

• Smash (2012–2013) – Drama, music, and the cutthroat business of putting on a Broadway musical.

FILMS:

🎥About Hollywood & Film Industry🎥

• For Your Consideration (2006) - From the comedy geniuses Christopher Guest & Eugene Levy this is a satirical comedy about a group of actors in an indie film who get caught up in the frenzy of Hollywood awards buzz—despite the fact that no one has actually seen their movie.
  

• Day for Night (1973) – A French masterpiece about the chaos of making a movie.

• La La Land (2016) – The dream and heartbreak of an actor’s journey, wrapped in musical magic.

• Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019) – A Tarantino love letter to 1960's Hollywood.

• The Artist (2011) – Silent film struggles meet the transition to sound in this Oscar-winner.

• The Player (1992) – A darkly comedic take on Hollywood’s power-hungry executives.

• Tootsie (1982) – A struggling actor disguises himself as a woman to land a role.

• Tropic Thunder (2008) – A hilarious send-up of Hollywood egos and method acting.

   

 FILMS:

🎭About Broadway & Theater World🎭

• A Chorus Line (1985) – The film adaptation of the Broadway classic about dancers chasing their dreams.

• All About Eve (1950) – A razor-sharp drama about ambition, jealousy, and the theater world, featuring the legendary Bette Davis line: "Fasten your seatbelts, it's going to be a bumpy night!"

• All That Jazz (1979) – A raw, surreal take on the life of a Broadway director/choreographer.

• Birdman (2014) – Stellar Oscar winning performance by Michael Keaton as a washed-up superhero actor attempting to reclaim glory on Broadway.

• Fame (1980) - Follows a group of talented students at a New York performing arts high school as they navigate the challenges of ambition, love, and self-discovery on their journey to stardom.

• Hail, Caesar! (2016) – The Coen Brothers’ satirical ode to the golden age of film, Broadway & Theater World.

• Moulin Rouge! (2001) – High drama, theatrical energy, and spectacular musical numbers.

• Singin’ in the Rain (1952) – The best of old Hollywood, from musicals to industry satire.

• Stage Door (1937) – Young actresses chasing Broadway stardom in old Hollywood style.

• Theater Camp (2023) – A hilarious mockumentary about drama kids and their eccentric teachers.

• The Producers (1967 & 2005) - A satirical comedy about a down-and-out Broadway producer and his timid accountant who scheme to get rich by creating a guaranteed flop but accidentally produce a hit instead.
  

• Tick, Tick… Boom! (2021) – A musical biopic about Rent creator Jonathan Larson.

UNSCRIPTED SHOWS:

🎬About Acting & The Industry🎬

These are must-watch educational and interview style series that give actors real insight into the craft and business.

• Actors on Actors (Variety) – A-listers interview each other about their careers and craft.

• Inside the Actors Studio (1994–2018) – In-depth, intimate interviews with legendary actors about their process.

• Off Camera with Sam Jones  – Honest, thoughtful interviews with actors, directors, and creators.

• Project Greenlight (2001–2023) - A documentary television series focusing on first-time filmmakers being given the chance to direct a feature film.

• The Directors Chair – Breakdowns of famous directors’ styles and storytelling techniques.

• The Movies That Made Us (2019–) – Behind-the-scenes stories of iconic films.

   

🎭 Final Curtain Call

Actors, you live this industry—so why not watch it play out on screen, too? Whether you’re in the mood for inspiration, laughter, or a painfully accurate Hollywood satire, this list has something for you.

And hey, if I forgot a few gems, just assume I was caught up in a dramatic monologue or a spontaneous jazz hands moment. Feel free to remind me—I'm always up for expanding the list!

🎥 Enjoy your Hollywood/Broadway-themed binge like the true thespian you are! 🍿✨