Larry King Now Season 6 Episode 106 Thomas Middleditch on 'Silicon Valley,' improv, & T.J. Miller

In the latest episode of Larry King Now, Thomas Middleditch, the star of HBO's hit show 'Silicon Valley,' sits down with legendary broadcaster Larry King to discuss his life, career and some behind the scenes stories from his work on the show.

Middleditch starts off by sharing his journey to acting, which started with improv comedy. He talks about the importance of improv in his life and how it helped him in his work on 'Silicon Valley'. Middleditch has performed improv since the age of 7 and is a founding member of the comedy group 'The Improvised Shakespeare Company'. Larry and Middleditch talk about how improvisation can be a helpful tool in all areas of life.

The discussion quickly moves on to 'Silicon Valley', where Middleditch plays the socially awkward tech genius Richard Hendricks. He talks about how the show is in direct contrast to his real personality, and how he uses his own quirks and foibles to find his way into the role. Middleditch also shares his experience working with co-star T.J. Miller, who left the show after season 4. While he admits that Miller’s exit was both unexpected and disappointing, he recalls how much he enjoyed working with him, and how the now-infamous "Hooli-Con" episode was born out of their on-set antics.

Larry and Middleditch also discuss the impact that 'Silicon Valley' has had on the tech industry. The show has become a cultural icon by satirizing the work culture of Silicon Valley and has drawn attention to the darker side of the tech industry. Middleditch points out that while there are certainly instances of unethical behavior in tech, it's important to remember that it's not all bad--after all, it's given rise to the likes of Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos. The two then go on to discuss how there can be a middle ground between the idealized view of tech innovation and the darker realities.

As the interview concludes, Middleditch reflects on his experience in the entertainment industry thus far, from his beginnings as an unknown actor in the Chicago theater scene, to the heights he's reached with 'Silicon Valley'. He shares his thoughts on what it takes to make it as an actor, how to stay true to yourself, and why it's essential to be open to criticism.

Overall, this episode of Larry King Now offers an in-depth look at the life and work of Thomas Middleditch. From the importance of improv, to the behind-the-scenes stories on his work with T.J. Miller, to his perspective on the tech industry, Middleditch provides an insightful and engaging interview that is sure to delight fans of 'Silicon Valley' and anyone interested in the world of comedy and entertainment.