If you’re a comedy fan watching The Larry Sanders Show for the first time, it’s hard not to compare it to some of the classics we’re spoiled with now. Traces of Sanders’ grumpy but likable persona can be found in Curb Your Enthusiasm’s Larry David, while the show’s mockumentary format, while experimental then, is par for the course now. But even on its own terms, without the retrospective insight, The Larry Sanders Show is a genuinely hilarious and incisive take on dysfunctional workplaces, live television, and celebrity culture. There are levels to Sanders’ character, who is neurotic but narcissistic, kind but self-involved, that make every episode a funny and deeply interesting watch.
"The show's supporting cast assists tremendously in convincing viewers that they are watching behind-the-scenes wranglings at a well-known talkshow, and the creative decision to delve more into Sanders' off-screen life could be a wise one."
— Adam Sandler
Comic Garry Shandling draws upon his own talk show experiences to create the character of Larry Sanders, a paranoid, insecure host of a late night talk show. Larry, along with his obsequious TV sidekick Hank Kingsley and his fiercely protective producer Artie, allows Garry Shandling and his talented writers to look behind the scenes and to show us a convincing slice of behind the camera life.
A workplace comedy that follows late-night host Larry Sanders (Garry Shandling) as he balances love, celebrity, and an unruly but hilarious office staff.
The celeb cameos are always fun, especially since they’re playing a slightly worse version of themselves. Some favorites include Robin Williams, Winona Ryder, Laura Dern, Jon Stewart, and Billy Crystal.
Whatever your thoughts are on cringe comedy, this is the show you should start pointing fingers at.
