Jeff Schaffer on Larry David’s New HBO Show and Obama’s Role
10 reported
Jeff Schaffer, longtime collaborator of Larry David, discussed the new HBO series "Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness" in a recent interview. The historical sketch comedy, which premiered June 26, was co-created by Schaffer and David, with Schaffer directing all seven episodes. The project originated from an outreach by Ethan Lewis at Higher Ground on behalf of Barack and Michelle Obama, who wanted something for America's 250th birthday. Barack Obama serves as an executive producer and appears in a sketch. Schaffer said David, who is 76, was interested in the idea because he is an American history buff. The show features David playing selfish, petty characters throughout history, with a format similar to "Curb Your Enthusiasm" using outlines rather than full scripts. Schaffer noted that David cannot sit still and is always writing, and that the two are already considering other projects.
What’s reported
"Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness" premiered on HBO on June 26.
The series is a historical sketch comedy described as "'Curb' in costume."
Jeff Schaffer co-created the project with Larry David and directed all seven episodes.
Barack Obama is an executive producer and appears in a sketch.
The idea came from Ethan Lewis at Higher Ground on behalf of the Obamas.
The show was made for America's 250th birthday.
David is an American history buff who has the Gettysburg Address in his bathroom.
The show was written using outlines, similar to "Curb Your Enthusiasm."
Kathryn Hahn and Bill Hader appear in the series.
Schaffer said David "can't sit still" and is always writing and thinking about new projects.
Key figures
Jeff Schaffer: Co-creator and director of the series, longtime collaborator of Larry David.
Larry David: Star of the series, co-creator.
Barack Obama: Executive producer and appears in a sketch.
Ethan Lewis: Reached out on behalf of the Obamas.
Kathryn Hahn: Appears in the series as Mary Todd Lincoln.
Bill Hader: Appears in the series as Abraham Lincoln.
Sources: Variety
