The Larry Sanders Show

Watch The Larry Sanders Show

  • TV-MA
  • 1992
  • 7 Seasons
  • 8.5  (9,263)

The Larry Sanders Show was a groundbreaking sitcom that aired on HBO from 1992 to 1998. The show followed the lives of the eponymous Larry Sanders, played by Garry Shandling, and his colleagues and friends who work on a late-night talk show. Set behind the scenes of the fictional show, The Larry Sanders Show is a satirical commentary on the world of entertainment and celebrity culture.

The show was created by Garry Shandling, who also wrote and produced the majority of the episodes. The Larry Sanders Show was ahead of its time in its use of a single-camera setup, which was not common for sitcoms at the time. The show also featured frequent use of improvisation, giving the actors a lot of creative freedom and leading to some of the show's most memorable moments.

The main cast of The Larry Sanders Show was made up of some of the most talented actors of the time. Jeffrey Tambor played Hank Kingsley, Larry's sidekick and announcer. Rip Torn played Arthur, the show's producer who frequently clashes with Larry. Penny Johnson Jerald played Beverly, Larry's assistant, and Janeane Garofalo played Paula, the show's booker. Jeremy Piven played Jerry, the head writer, and Wallace Langham played Phil, the show's head researcher. Linda Doucett played Darlene, Larry's girlfriend and head of the show's talent department. Mary Lynn Rajskub played Mary Lou, a talent assistant on the show. Kathryn Harrold played Francine, Larry's ex-wife, and Scott Thompson played Brian, a writer on the show.

The Larry Sanders Show was praised for its realism and authenticity. The show took an unflinching look at the world of late-night television and celebrity culture, showing the behind-the-scenes workings of a talk show with remarkable accuracy. The show drew on Shandling's own experience as a comedian and talk show host, giving it a level of authenticity that was hard to match.

The Larry Sanders Show was notable for its irreverent humor and sharp wit. The show frequently lampooned the world of entertainment and celebrity, poking fun at its own characters and the celebrities who appeared on the show. The humor was often dark and uncomfortable, but it was always clever and insightful, making the show a must-watch for fans of smart comedy.

One of the show's most notable features was its use of celebrity guest stars. The show regularly featured high-profile celebrities playing themselves, often to hilarious effect. Guest stars included everyone from David Duchovny to Jerry Seinfeld to Ellen DeGeneres to Alec Baldwin. The show's use of celebrity guests was a testament to its popularity and influence, as many celebrities were eager to be a part of the show.

The Larry Sanders Show was also notable for the way it tackled serious issues. The show was not afraid to explore topics like depression, addiction, and the pressures of fame. These serious moments were handled with sensitivity and realism, giving the show a depth that is rare in sitcoms.

Overall, The Larry Sanders Show was a groundbreaking sitcom that pushed the boundaries of what television comedy could be. The show was smart, irreverent, and authentic, exploring the world of celebrity culture with a wit and humor that was unmatched. The show's legacy can still be felt today, as it paved the way for other groundbreaking comedies like Curb Your Enthusiasm and 30 Rock.

The Larry Sanders Show is a series that is currently running and has 7 seasons (96 episodes). The series first aired on August 15, 1992.

The Larry Sanders Show
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Seasons
Flip Pt. 1 & 2
23. Flip Pt. 1 & 2
May 31, 1998
While meeting with Arthur and publicist Norman Litkey on the eve of his final show, Larry learns that some high profile guests have either canceled or refused to appear. Meanwhile, as Hank prepares his farewell to Larry, the staff tries to keep their volatile emotions in check. Clint Black's heartfelt farewell song helps bring Larry's talk show career to a close. Finding Larry and Arthur sharing a moment together after the show, Hank angrily complains about having his tribute interrupted and for being the butt of Larry's jokes all these years. However, after nearly coming to blows before storming off, Hank returns for a tearful apology as he, Larry and Arthur make up before leaving the set for the final time.
Putting The
22. Putting The
May 17, 1998
Unable to stand Phil's relentless gay jokes any longer, Brian threatens to sue the show for sexual harassment. Not wanting anything to mar Larry's final week, Arthur presses Phil to stop. However, when Brian goes out of his way to bait him and Phil cannot resist making another joke, the lawsuit is filed. Meanwhile, as Hank secretly prepares a final tribute featuring some of the show's guests, Larry tries to get a date with actress Illeana Douglas by having Arthur book her as a guest on the show.
Adolph Hankler
21. Adolph Hankler
April 20, 1998
With Larry going on vacation, his regular guest host Jon Stewart is set to do the show. As part of their plan to groom him to take Larry's job, Melanie and Kenny do their best to make Jon feel welcome. But after learning he's booked the rap group Wu Tang Clan, they worry about alienating the audience and ask Arthur to intervene. Meanwhile, as Hank looks for a way to persuade Jon to keep him on the show, Larry gets a visit from his brother, Stan.
The Begining Of The End
18. The Begining Of The End
March 22, 1998
Even though the changes Larry's been forced to make have improved his sagging ratings, the network still assigns Kenny Mitchell as their creative liaison to the show. And upon arriving for his first day in the new job, Kenny makes it clear he has a lot of other changes in store, not least of which are taking away Larry's desk and getting more popular guests. Meanwhile, as his contract nears its expiration date with no renewal agreement in sight, Larry questions the commitment of his agent, Stevie Grant.
Hanks Night In The Sun
7. Hanks Night In The Sun
July 27, 1994
When Larry is poisoned by some bad frozen yogurt, Arthur presses Paula to find a guest host for the show. But when the list of regulars fails to produce a candidate, Arthur is forced to call on Hank to step in for Larry. After enlisting Shadoe Stevens to be his announcer and sidekick, Hank gets cold feet and tries backing out. But without anyone else to fill in, Arthur insists that he overcome his fears and do the show.
The Spiders
2. The Spiders
August 29, 1992
While preparing for a show with guest Carol Burnett, Larry is told that spider expert Steve Kutcher will also be appearing with some of his spiders. Asked to participate in a Tarantula Arm Race, Larry's fear of spiders causes him to worry but, when Arthur insists it will get huge laughs from his audience, he tentatively agrees to join in. Meanwhile, after having comedian Jon Lovitz and his date over for dinner, Larry tells Jeannie of his concerns about doing a show with spiders, while she points out that he would do anything for a laugh.
What Have You Done For Me Lately?
1. What Have You Done For Me Lately?
August 16, 1992
During a meeting with network executives, Larry is asked to do live commercials to appease his show's sponsors. Reluctant to tamper with the format of his program, Larry worries that they will not work with the style of the show, while Arthur suggests that Hank should be the one to do the spots. However, when that idea is turned down because Hank is already overexposed in the commercial market, Larry is told that the owners are adamant that he be the one doing commercials for the Garden Weasel.
Description
Where to Watch The Larry Sanders Show
The Larry Sanders Show is available for streaming on the HBO website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch The Larry Sanders Show on demand at Max, Amazon Prime, Amazon, Hulu, HBO NOW and Apple TV.
  • Premiere Date
    August 15, 1992
  • IMDB Rating
    8.5  (9,263)
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