Larry David returns to HBO with a new comedy series, Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness. Watch the trailer featuring Barack Obama. Premieres June 26.
- May 8, 2026
AceShowbiz - Larry David returns to HBO with a fresh comedy series titled Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness, and the network has released its first trailer ahead of the June 26 premiere. Known for his signature deadpan style and sharp observations on social awkwardness, Larry David first rose to fame co-creating the legendary sitcom Seinfeld and later starring in his own HBO hit, Curb Your Enthusiasm. This new project marks his return to the premium cable network with a limited seven-episode sketch comedy series.
The trailer offers a glimpse of the show's tone and notable contributors, including former President Barack Obama, who serves as an executive producer. In a humorous segment, Obama describes his experience working with Larry David as a nightmare, illustrating the show's comedic take on unlikely friendships. The trailer also depicts Larry David humorously asking Obama to be his emergency contact despite consistently needing help himself, highlighting the show's quirky humor.
Unlike the traditional sitcom format of Seinfeld or the largely improvised comedy of manners style in Curb Your Enthusiasm, Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness is structured as a sketch comedy series. Each episode will present four distinct sketches, exploring various moments in American history through a satirical lens. The show's subtitle, An Almost History of America, and the involvement of Barack Obama suggest a focus on major historical events rather than everyday minutiae.
The series features a strong ensemble cast, including many familiar faces from Curb Your Enthusiasm and other high-profile guest stars. Notable participants announced include Jon Hamm, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Susie Essman, Vince Vaughn, Kathryn Hahn, Bill Hader, Jerry Seinfeld, Jeff Garlin, J.B. Smoove, and Barack Obama himself. This diverse lineup hints at a varied and dynamic comedic experience.
Larry David is credited as both writer and executive producer, working alongside co-creator Jeff Schaffer. Schaffer, who has a longstanding collaboration history with Larry David, has previously written multiple episodes of Seinfeld, directed several Curb Your Enthusiasm episodes, and served as an executive producer on the latter series.
The new show is also executive-produced by Higher Ground, the production company founded by Barack Obama and Michelle Obama. Higher Ground has a notable portfolio of critically acclaimed projects, including documentaries like American Factory (2019), Crip Camp (2020), Rustin (2023), American Symphony (2023), and the drama Leave the World Behind (2023). This partnership further emphasizes the show's blend of comedy and cultural significance.
Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness will premiere on Friday, June 26, at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on HBO. The series will also be available for streaming on HBO Max, with new episodes releasing weekly until the season finale on August 7. Given the star power of Larry David and Barack Obama, along with a promising lineup of guest stars and a unique format, the series is positioned to be one of HBO’s summer highlights.
Larry David remains a significant figure in television comedy, known for his distinct blend of wit, social commentary, and awkward humor. His latest project seems poised to continue this tradition while bringing a fresh approach by tackling historical themes with a comedic twist and a star-studded cast.
Fans of Larry David and comedy enthusiasts alike will want to tune in to see how this new series balances sharp satire with the absurdity of American history, all through the unique lens of one of television’s most influential comedic voices and an unexpected partnership with a former U.S. president.