Ep 2. The Promise

Larry Sanders is a popular talk show host with his own show entitled "The Larry Sanders Show." Season 1 episode 2, "The Promise," begins with Larry getting a call from the show's producer, Artie, asking him to come in for a meeting. Larry meets with Artie, who informs him that their network, the fictional network "Ripple," is having financial troubles, and they may need to cut back on budget expenses, which could include Larry's show.

Larry is worried about the future of his program and does not want to be canceled. Meanwhile, Hank Kingsley, Larry's sidekick on the show, is promoting his new book called "Mr. Shark Goes to Hollywood." Hank is hoping to be a guest on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson to promote his book, but he hasn't heard anything back from the producers.

Larry suggests to Hank that he can get him on The Tonight Show and promises him that he will make a few calls to make it happen. However, when Larry tries to call the show's producer to make arrangements for Hank's appearance, he gets the run-around and is unable to make progress.

Larry also has to deal with a difficult guest, comedian Martin Mull, who is scheduled to appear on his show. Martin is uncooperative and doesn't like any of the jokes that Larry's team has prepared for him. This causes tension between Larry and the show's head writer, Phil, who feels that Martin is being unreasonable.

As the day progresses, Larry starts to get more and more anxious about the future of his show, and he takes out his frustrations on Artie, who tries his best to calm him down. However, Larry's mood isn't helped when he receives news that The Tonight Show has booked another guest instead of Hank.

The tension builds as Larry prepares to go on the air for his show. Martin Mull is still being difficult, and Larry is worried that his show will be canceled. However, Larry's fears are dispelled when he receives a surprise visit from Johnny Carson himself, who assures him that his show is safe from cancellation.

Overall, "The Promise" is an entertaining and fast-paced episode that explores the anxieties and pressures that come with running a successful television show. Larry is a likable protagonist who struggles with balancing his personal and professional life, and his interactions with his staff and guests are consistently funny and engaging. The episode provides a great introduction for new viewers to the world of "The Larry Sanders Show" and sets up the season's ongoing themes of fame, fortune, and the price of success.