The Larry Sanders Show Starring Garry Shandling Season 3 Episode 13 Hank's Divorce

As Garry Shandling's critically acclaimed sitcom The Larry Sanders Show entered its third season, the series continued to tackle the intricacies of the entertainment industry in a sharp and satirical manner. One particularly notable episode, titled "Hank's Divorce," delved into the personal life of one of the show's most beloved characters.

Hank Kingsley, played by Jeffrey Tambor, is the second banana to talk show host Larry Sanders (Shandling), serving as the show's announcer and occasional comic relief. However, as the episode begins, it becomes clear that something is amiss with Hank. Larry notices that his friend and colleague is acting strangely, and after some prodding, Hank finally confesses that he is getting a divorce.

The news spreads quickly throughout the show's staff, with Larry's head writer Phil (Wallace Langham) and producer Artie (Rip Torn) expressing concern for Hank's well-being. Hank, meanwhile, is a mess, alternating between tears and anger as he laments his failed marriage.

Throughout the episode, the show must go on, and so Larry and his team continue to prepare for that evening's broadcast. Hank's emotional state, however, proves to be a distraction, as he flubs his lines and is unable to deliver his usual quips with his usual panache.

As the show draws near, Larry makes the difficult decision to cut a segment featuring Hank altogether, knowing that his friend just can't handle the pressure. Hank is devastated, feeling like he has let everyone down.

In the show's signature style, "Hank's Divorce" manages to balance humor and heartache, with Shandling and his talented cast delivering standout performances. The episode also manages to explore the fragile egos and intense pressures that come with working in show business, as well as the importance of compassion and empathy during difficult times.

Overall, "Hank's Divorce" is a poignant and memorable installment in the The Larry Sanders Show canon, showcasing the series' singular blend of biting wit and emotional depth.