Larry David is back, and this time he’s dragging the Obamas into it. HBO has ordered a new six-episode sketch comedy limited series from the Curb Your Enthusiasm creator, in partnership with Barack and Michelle Obama’s production company, Higher Ground. Yes, that sentence is real.
The untitled half-hour series is co-written by David and long-time collaborator Jeff Schaffer, who also directs. It features a cast made up of Curb alumni and some high-profile guest stars. Together, they’ll take an irreverent look at American history in honour of the nation’s 250th anniversary. At least, that was the plan before Larry got involved.
The official logline sets the tone: “President and Mrs. Obama wanted to honour America’s 250th anniversary and celebrate the unique history of our nation on this special occasion. …But then Larry David called.”
Naturally, the quotes are already comedy gold. David offered this poetic explanation for his return:
“Once ‘Curb’ ended, I celebrated with a three-day foam party. After a violent allergic reaction to the suds, I yearned to return to my simple life as a beekeeper… Alas, one day my bees mysteriously vanished. And so, it is with a heavy heart that I return to television, hoping to ease the loss of my beloved hive.”
President Obama, meanwhile, reflected on the challenges of this new collaboration:
“I’ve sat across the table from some of the world’s most difficult leaders and wrestled with some of our most intractable problems. Nothing has prepared me for working with Larry David.”
Amy Gravitt, EVP of HBO & Max Comedy, called the project a perfect fit:
“It’s hard to remember a time before ‘Curb,’ or without Larry David’s perspective on modern life. We’re thrilled that Larry is coming back to HBO, this time with Higher Ground, to give us a glimpse at our shared history as we celebrate our Semiquincentennial.”
Schaffer added: “The characters Larry is playing didn’t change history. In fact, they were largely ignored by history. And that’s a good thing.”
The series is executive produced by Larry David and Jeff Schaffer. For Higher Ground, executive producers are Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, Vinnie Malhotra and Ethan Lewis.
The Untitled American History Sketch Comedy does not have a premiere date. If you want to keep track of this or any other shows, you can add them via our Never Miss system, and you’ll be notified when it gets a UK premiere date. Visit Never Miss.
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