12 TV Shows That Mirror the Business World

Television has always been a source of entertainment, but it also has the power to educate and provide insights into various aspects of life, including the business world. While many TV shows take creative liberties for the sake of drama or comedy, there are a few gems that actually accurately portray the intricacies of business.

1. Mad Men

12 TV Shows That Mirror the Business World — Photo Credit: Lionsgate Television.

Set in the 1960s, this critically acclaimed series provides a realistic depiction of the advertising industry. The show explores the cutthroat world of Madison Avenue, showcasing the power struggles, interpersonal dynamics, and creative processes within an advertising agency. With its attention to detail and historical accuracy, Mad Men offers a compelling insight into the business world of the era.

2. Silicon Valley

This popular comedy series delves into the high-stakes world of the tech industry. It follows a group of programmers as they navigate the challenges of launching a startup in Silicon Valley. Silicon Valley accurately captures the competitive nature of the industry, highlighting the obstacles faced by entrepreneurs, the complexities of securing funding, and the ever-present risk of failure.

3. Billions

Billions provides a thrilling portrayal of the world of high finance and hedge funds. The show centers around the intense rivalry between a billionaire hedge fund manager and a determined U.S. Attorney. It offers a glimpse into the cutthroat nature of Wall Street, showcasing the strategic maneuvering, insider trading investigations, and the intricate power dynamics within the financial sector.

4. The Office

This mockumentary-style sitcom presents a satirical take on office life. Through the lens of a paper supply company, The Office humorously examines the everyday challenges, workplace dynamics, and interpersonal relationships that are common in corporate environments. The show’s depiction of office politics and the quirky personalities of its characters strike a chord with many viewers who can relate to the absurdities of the business world.

5. Shark Tank

As a reality show, Shark Tank provides a unique window into the world of entrepreneurship and investment. Entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas to a panel of successful business moguls in the hopes of securing funding and partnerships. The show accurately showcases the importance of effective pitching, negotiation skills, and the evaluation of market viability—a valuable educational tool for aspiring entrepreneurs.

6. Better Call Saul

Serving as a prequel to the critically acclaimed series Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul offers a realistic depiction of the legal profession. The show follows the journey of Jimmy McGill, a small-time lawyer who eventually transforms into the morally ambiguous attorney Saul Goodman. With its attention to legal procedures, ethical dilemmas, and the complexities of client relationships, Better Call Saul provides a nuanced portrayal of the legal world.

7. Suits

This legal drama series explores the high-stakes world of corporate law and the intricacies of working at a prestigious law firm. Suits follows the story of a college dropout who manages to land a job as a law associate by utilizing his exceptional memory and quick thinking. The show accurately portrays the fast-paced nature of the legal profession, the intense negotiations, and the competitive nature of climbing the corporate ladder.

8. The Big Short

While not a TV show, The Big Short is a film that deserves mention for its accurate depiction of the 2008 financial crisis. Based on true events, the movie portrays the experiences of several individuals who predicted the housing market collapse and subsequently profited from it. The Big Short provides a comprehensive look at the complexities of the financial industry, including the risky practices that contributed to the crisis and the challenges faced by those who saw it coming.

9. Succession

This drama series delves into the world of a wealthy and dysfunctional media family as they navigate the challenges of running a global media conglomerate. Succession accurately depicts the power struggles, boardroom politics, and family dynamics that often accompany large corporations. With its exploration of succession planning, mergers and acquisitions, and the intricacies of corporate governance, the show provides a realistic portrayal of the business side of media empires.

10. The Profit

A reality TV series, The Profit follows entrepreneur Marcus Lemonis as he invests in struggling businesses and attempts to turn them around. The show provides an inside look into the challenges faced by small businesses, including financial difficulties, operational issues, and management conflicts. The Profit accurately portrays the tough decisions and strategic interventions required to revitalize a struggling company.

11. The West Wing

This political drama series provides a realistic glimpse into the inner workings of the White House and the challenges faced by the president and his staff. The West Wing accurately portrays the complexities of policymaking, the pressures of public opinion, and the strategic decision-making processes involved in running a government. With its attention to detail and political realism, the show offers viewers a thought-provoking look into the world of politics and governance.

12. House of Cards

Set in the realm of American politics, House of Cards is a gripping series that explores the dark side of power and ambition. The show follows the Machiavellian tactics employed by a ruthless politician to climb the political ladder. House of Cards provides an accurate portrayal of the cutthroat nature of politics, the behind-the-scenes manipulations, and the ethical compromises often made in the pursuit of power.