Here’s an unlikely pairing: Larry David and President Barack Obama are making a sketch comedy for HBO.
The network has ordered the series, which will focus on American history, and will feature cast members of Curb Your Enthusiasm.
The logline: President and Mrs. Obama wanted to honor America’s 250th anniversary and celebrate the unique history of our nation on this special occasion…But then Larry David called.
The untitled, half-hour limited series is written by David and his Curb partner Jeff Schaffer, who also directs. It will also feature “noteworthy” guest stars. It will be produced by Obama’s Higher Ground.
The series is executive produced by David, Schaffer, Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, Vinnie Malhotra and Ethan Lewis.
The sensational pairing marks the first project that David has worked on since Curb Your Enthusiasm ended with its twelfth season last year.
Former President Obama said, “I’ve sat across the table from some of the world’s most difficult leaders and wrestled with some of our most intractable problems. Nothing has prepared me for working with Larry David.”
David added, “Once Curb ended, I celebrated with a three-day foam party. After a violent allergic reaction to the suds, I yearned to return to my simple life as a beekeeper, harvesting organic honey from the wildflowers in my meadow. Alas, one day my bees mysteriously vanished. And so, it is with a heavy heart that I return to television, hoping to ease the loss of my beloved hive.”
Amy Gravitt, EVP, Head of HBO & HBO Max Comedy Programming, said: “It’s hard to remember a time before Curb, or without Larry David’s perspective on modern life. We’re thrilled that Larry is coming back to HBO, this time with Higher Ground, to give us a glimpse at our shared history as we celebrate our Semiquincentennial.”
Schaffer added, “The characters Larry is playing didn’t change history. In fact, they were largely ignored by history. And that’s a good thing.”