The Larry Sanders Show Starring Garry Shandling Season 1 Episode 7 Hank's Contract

Hank's Contract is the seventh episode of the first season of The Larry Sanders Show, a sitcom starring Garry Shandling. The episode revolves around Hank Kingsley, who is the sidekick on Larry Sanders' late-night talk show. Hank has recently learned that his contract with the show is expiring soon, and he is becoming increasingly anxious about his future on the show.

Larry and Artie, the show's producer, are both aware of Hank's contract situation, and they are divided about what to do. Larry feels that Hank should be given a new contract, as he is an important part of the show and has been with Larry for a long time. Artie, on the other hand, thinks that Hank's performance has been slipping and that he should be let go.

Hank becomes increasingly agitated as Larry and Artie discuss his contract situation. He begins to act out on the set, making mistakes during his sketches and getting into arguments with other members of the crew. Larry tries to calm him down, but Hank refuses to listen.

Meanwhile, Larry is dealing with his own stress about the show. He is worried about a potential lawsuit from a guest who he insulted on the show, and he is struggling to come up with new material for the program.

As the episode progresses, the tension between Hank and Larry continues to build. Hank becomes convinced that Larry is going to fire him, and he begins to act out even more. He starts drinking on the set and making inappropriate remarks to the crew.

Despite all of this, Larry is determined to find a way to keep Hank on the show. He talks to his agent about renegotiating Hank's contract, and he comes up with a plan to make Hank feel valued again. The plan involves giving Hank a raise and more prominence on the show.

In the end, Larry's plan works, and Hank signs on for another season of the show. He is thrilled to have a renewed sense of purpose on the program, and Larry is relieved to have resolved the issue. The episode ends on a positive note, with the crew celebrating Hank's continued presence on the show.

Overall, Hank's Contract is a compelling episode of The Larry Sanders Show that deals with themes of loyalty, insecurity, and friendship. The performances by Garry Shandling and the rest of the cast are excellent, and the writing is sharp and funny. The episode offers a realistic and entertaining look at the behind-the-scenes drama of a late-night talk show.