Podcasts > SmartLess > "Larry David"

"Larry David"

By Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, Will Arnett

In this SmartLess episode, Larry David opens up about his unconventional path to comedy stardom, from early standup gigs and writing for others, to creating the groundbreaking hit Seinfeld. The conversation delves into David's creative process, his determination to push sitcom boundaries, and the improvisational freedom behind his long-running Curb Your Enthusiasm.

David also shares amusing anecdotes about his quirky personal habits and preferences, such as finding solace in the bathroom, disliking dogs near his food, and avoiding social obligations. The episode offers a candid glimpse into the mind of the iconic comedian as he reflects on his acclaimed career and potential future endeavors, even jokingly pondering becoming an NFL coordinator.

"Larry David"

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"Larry David"

1-Page Summary

Larry David's background and early career

Larry David, before gaining fame as a comedian, earned a bachelor's degree in history without any initial intentions to enter showbiz. It wasn't until he started doing stand-up comedy in 1980s New York clubs with the humble financial goal of making $200 per week that his path to entertainment began to take shape. David also honed his skills by writing for other comedians such as Gilbert Gottfried and eventually met and collaborated with Jerry Seinfeld on comedic premises, setting the stage for their future successful partnership.

The creation of Seinfeld and why the show was so groundbreaking

In 1988, Jerry Seinfeld brought Larry David on board to develop a television pilot for NBC named "The Seinfeld Chronicles," which later became "Seinfeld." The show, centered around a stand-up comedian's life experiences, was groundbreaking due to the creative freedom the duo enjoyed from the network, allowing them to push the boundaries of traditional network television. Larry David's determination to resist conventional sitcom formats and studio notes led to a new era of television comedy that thrived on originality and the unexpected.

Long run and longevity of Curb Your Enthusiasm

Larry David's "Curb Your Enthusiasm," originally a one-off special, evolved into a series that enjoys significant longevity in television. David prefers to keep children out of the show, finding that their absence from the narrative structure is beneficial. He relishes the improvisational style of the series, playing a semi-fictional version of himself that is allowed to be cranky, a characteristic that he seems to enjoy both on and off-screen. The freedom to express unfiltered thoughts during improvisation has been both enjoyable and cathartic for David.

Larry's personal habits and preferences

Larry David's personal life is marked by unique habits and strong preferences. He prefers to eat without dogs nearby and expresses a broad dislike for holidays, especially Halloween, and social obligations including birthday dinners and parties with guests he does not know. When at home, David resorts to sneaking snacks into the bathroom to avoid dogs, an anecdote revealing his desire for uninterrupted tranquility. Additionally, although not detailed in the provided text, David's disdain for repetition likely impacted his experience with performing in Broadway shows.

Larry David's future plans

Larry David humorously contemplates becoming an offensive coordinator for an NFL team despite his lack of football experience, suggesting his creativity could translate to game strategy. Currently, he is enjoying a mostly relaxed retirement lifestyle, engaging in leisure activities like reading, watching TV, and playing golf, fitting for someone of his humor and unconventional outlook.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Larry David's resistance to conventional sitcom formats stemmed from his desire to avoid typical, formulaic storytelling seen in traditional television comedies. He preferred to challenge norms by incorporating more unconventional and unpredictable elements into his work, pushing boundaries and striving for originality. This approach allowed him to create a unique comedic style that differentiated his shows from mainstream sitcoms, contributing to the groundbreaking nature of his work in the industry. David's determination to maintain creative control and authenticity in his projects led to a new era of television comedy that prioritized innovation and unconventional storytelling.
  • In "Curb Your Enthusiasm," Larry David plays a character named Larry David who shares many similarities with the real Larry David but is not an exact representation. The character's exaggerated traits and situations often lead to comedic and awkward moments, blurring the lines between reality and fiction. This semi-fictional portrayal allows David to explore exaggerated versions of his personality and experiences for comedic effect. The show's improvisational style further enhances the authenticity of this semi-fictional character.
  • Larry David's contemplation of becoming an offensive coordinator for an NFL team is a humorous reference to him potentially taking on a role in American football despite his lack of experience in the sport. This idea showcases his playful and unconventional sense of humor, as well as his willingness to entertain outlandish scenarios for comedic effect. It is not a serious career aspiration but rather a comedic exaggeration of his capabilities and interests. This whimsical notion aligns with David's comedic style, which often involves absurd or unlikely scenarios for comedic effect.
  • Larry David's retirement lifestyle involves engaging in leisure activities like reading, watching TV, and playing golf. These activities provide him with relaxation and enjoyment during his retirement years. Reading allows him to explore different worlds through books, watching TV may include enjoying various shows or movies, and playing golf is a recreational sport that he finds pleasure in. These activities reflect his personal preferences and interests outside of his professional endeavors.

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"Larry David"

Larry David's background and early career

Before Larry David became a household name in comedy, he pursued a bachelor's degree in history during his college years.

Getting a history degree in college with no showbiz ambitions

David had no original plans to enter the showbiz industry. He studied history in college, not with any intention of becoming a historian or a professor, but simply as a means to complete his college education.

Doing standup comedy in New York clubs in the 1980s hoping to make $200 per week

Despite not having showbiz ambitions initially, Larry David aspired to be a stand-up comedian. By 1987, he was performing in New York clubs with modest financial aspirations. Content with the idea of making just $200 a week from his stand-up acts, he had no grand plans to expand his career beyond the New York club scene.

Writing for other comedians like Gilbert Gottfried

Larry David also took up writing comedy, and he crafted material for other comedians like Gilbert Gottfried. His involv ...

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Larry David's background and early career

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Larry David contributed to comedy by writing material for other comedians like Gilbert Gottfried. This involvement in crafting comedy for others allowed him to refine his skills and gain experience in the industry. Additionally, he occasionally collaborated with Jerry Seinfeld on writing comedic premises, which laid the foundation for their successful partnership in television. David's early work in writing and collaborating with other comedians helped shape his comedic style and set the stage for his future success in the entertainment industry.
  • Larry David's partnership with Jerry Seinfeld led to the creation of the iconic television show "Seinfeld," which is considered one of the greatest sitcoms in television history. The show revolutionized the sitcom genre with ...

Counterarguments

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"Larry David"

The creation of Seinfeld and why the show was so groundbreaking

The history of "Seinfeld" not only showcases its transformation into a television staple but also reveals the groundbreaking elements that shaped sitcoms for years to come.

Being brought on by Jerry Seinfeld to develop The Seinfeld Chronicles pilot

Larry David was approached by Jerry Seinfeld in 1988 to collaborate on a television pilot for NBC, which would develop into "The Seinfeld Chronicles." Seinfeld had been impressed by a screenplay by David and believed together they could create a unique show. The premise centered on a comedian, played by Seinfeld himself, gathering experiences from his everyday life to fuel his stand-up routines.

Will Arnett notes that the show originally bore the longer title "The Seinfeld Chronicles," before eventually being shortened to "Seinfeld." The pilot aired in the summer of 1989, with the initial episodes following in June 1990.

Pushing boundaries and questioning why the network let them get away with their unconventional ideas

Larry David vividly remembers the astonishment he shared with Seinfeld about the level of creative freedom granted to them by the network. They felt they were bending the rules of what was traditionally acceptable on network television, introducing a novel approach to sitcom storytelling. Jason Bateman and Will Arnett acknowledge David's role in crafting what would become one of the greatest American television shows by pushing these boundaries.

Resisting traditional sitcom conventions and notes from studio executives

The endeavor did not proceed without tension, as David recalls a particularly contentious meeting ...

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The creation of Seinfeld and why the show was so groundbreaking

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld were surprised by the network's willingness to let them push boundaries and explore unconventional ideas in their sitcom "Seinfeld." This creative freedom allowed them to deviate from traditional sitcom conventions and introduce a novel approach to storytelling on network television. Despite facing some resistance initially, Jerry Seinfeld's support and Larry David's vision ultimately prevailed, leading to a groundbreaking and influential show that revolutionized television comedy.
  • Larry David faced tension with studio executives due to disagreements over the direction of the show. The executives wanted a more traditional sitcom approach, while David pushed for a novel and unconventional storytelling style. This clash led to David quitting the show temporarily until Jerry Seinfeld's support helped him regain creative control. Ultimately, this conflict resulted in "Seinfeld" becoming a groundbreaking show that defied traditional sitcom conventions.
  • Castle Rock Entertainment was a production company involved in the creation of "Seinfeld." They played a crucial ...

Counterarguments

  • While "Seinfeld" was innovative, it was not the first show to push the boundaries of traditional sitcoms; other shows like "MAS*H" and "All in the Family" also challenged conventional norms in earlier decades.
  • The claim that "Seinfeld" introduced a novel approach to sitcom storytelling could be contested by pointing out that its format of interweaving storylines and a focus on the minutiae of everyday life had precursors in television history.
  • The assertion that Larry David's refusal to yield to network pressure was solely responsible for the show's success might overlook the contributions of other writers, cast members, and production staff who also played significant roles in shaping the show.
  • The idea that "Seinfeld" became Larry David's show might be challenged by emphasizing Jerry Seinfeld's ongoing influence and the collaborative nature of the show's development.
  • The notion that "Seinfeld" ushered in a new era of television comedy could be seen as an overstatement, as the evolution of the genre is a complex process influenced by many factors and shows over time.
  • The impact of "Seinfeld" on future sitcoms could be debated, as some might argue that while it was influenti ...

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"Larry David"

Long run and longevity of Curb Your Enthusiasm

"Curb Your Enthusiasm" has enjoyed a long run, bringing laughter to audiences through its unique brand of humor. One significant aspect of its success is the improvisational format that allows for organic, often unexpected comedic moments.

Creating an outline for the first Curb special focused on Larry's return to standup comedy

Initially, "Curb Your Enthusiasm" was not planned as a series. The first special was merely a one-off centering on Larry David's return to stand-up comedy and happened to include children. However, Larry David found the inclusion of children to be limiting.

Avoiding Kids and Embracing Improvisation

After the first special, Larry David made the creative decision to avoid featuring children in future episodes. He preferred the show without constant justification of the kids' whereabouts, finding it funnier and more convenient for the narrative structure.

Finding improvising the semi-fictional Larry David character cathartic and fun

Larry David personally enjoys playing a version of himself that is perpetually cranky on "Curb Your Enthusiasm." He has indicated that the improvisational nature of the show, particularly not aiming for humor but achieving it organically, is what renders the process enjoyable and even cathartic. The freedom to express whatever comes to mind during improvisation adds another layer of enjoyment to his performance.

Enjoying the freedom to say whatever he wants and be cranky in public

Moreover, David appreciates the blurred lines between his real-life persona and the curmudgeonly character he portrays. This blending of realiti ...

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Long run and longevity of Curb Your Enthusiasm

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • "Curb Your Enthusiasm" is a comedy television series created by Larry David. It first premiered on HBO in 2000 and is known for its improvisational style. The show features Larry David playing a fictionalized version of himself, navigating various social situations with his trademark awkwardness and crankiness. "Curb Your Enthusiasm" is praised for its unique humor and its ability to blend reality with fiction seamlessly.
  • Larry David's real-life persona is often reflected in the character he portrays on "Curb Your Enthusiasm." The show's semi-fictional version of Larry David is known for being cranky and outspoken, mirroring aspects of the real Larry David's personality. This blending of reality and fiction allows David to freely express his thoughts and be as candid as he wants, creating a character that resonates with audiences due to its authenticity. The freedom to improvise and say what comes to mind on the show enables David to channel his own quirks and frustrations into the character, adding depth and humor to the portrayal.
  • Will Arnett is an actor known fo ...

Counterarguments

  • While the improvisational format is a strength, it could also be argued that it may lead to inconsistent episode quality, as not all improvised content may be equally humorous or relevant.
  • The decision to avoid featuring children might limit the show's ability to explore certain comedic situations or family dynamics that could resonate with a broader audience.
  • Some viewers might not find the portrayal of a perpetually cranky character cathartic or enjoyable, but rather off-putting or one-dimensional.
  • The improvisational nature of the show, while leading to organic humor, might not appeal to those who prefer more structured and scripted comedy.
  • The freedom Larry David enjoys to say whatever he wants and act cranky in publi ...

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"Larry David"

Larry's personal habits and preferences

Larry David reveals his unique personal habits and preferences, ranging from his struggles with dogs during mealtime to his disdain for social obligations.

Disliking eating meals with dogs around bothering for food

Larry David enjoys the tranquility of eating without the presence of dogs, finding it relaxing to dine when they are not around. He is unable to eat with the dogs nearby, as they bother him for food—a behavior he blames on his partner, who started feeding the dogs from the table.

Detesting holidays, birthday dinners, parties, social obligations, and dinner parties with unknown guests

David has a strong aversion to holidays, describing them as detestable, and cites Halloween as particularly loathsome due to costumes, kids, and disturbances like door knocking—so much so that he keeps his house dark to avoid participating. He also shows no affection for Thanksgiving and Christmas, though he finds New Year's slightly more tolerable as it marks the end of the holiday season.

When it comes to birthdays, David is overwhelmed by the task of replying to birthday emails and is uncomfortable with the practice of having "Happy Birthday" sung to him. Furthermore, he loathes dinner parties, partly due to the secrecy of guest lists and the anxiety of spending time with unknown individuals. David asserts his preference for transparency, stating that he would inform his guests who else was attending if he were hosting a dinner party. Fellow actors Will Arnett and Jason Bateman share similar sentiments, discussing their reluctance to attend events like one-year-old birthday parties, weddings, and bar mitzvahs.

Sneaking snacks to avoid dogs; bringing peanut butter to eat privately in the bathroom

Within the dynamics of his household, David takes snacks into the bathroom to avoid the dogs ...

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Larry's personal habits and preferences

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Larry David, a well-known comedian and creator of the TV show "Curb Your Enthusiasm," has unique personal habits and preferences that include avoiding eating with dogs around, disliking holidays and social obligations, sneaking snacks to avoid dogs, and struggling with the repetitive nature of performing on Broadway. These aspects of his personality contribute to his distinct comedic style and public persona.
  • Larry David is a well-known comedian, writer, and actor, best known for co-creating the television series "Seinfeld" and creating and starring in "C ...

Counterarguments

  • While Larry David finds it relaxing to eat without dogs around, some people might argue that pets can enhance the dining experience by providing companionship and joy.
  • Holidays and social events are often seen as opportunities for bonding and creating memories, so some individuals might view them positively and as a chance to celebrate with loved ones.
  • Responding to birthday emails can be seen as a chance to reconnect with friends and acquaintances, and some might find joy in the well-wishes and the opportunity to engage with others on their birthday.
  • Having "Happy Birthday" sung to one might be uncomfortable for some, but others might see it as a heartwarming tradition that shows care and attention from friends and family.
  • While Larry David loathes dinner parties with unknown guests, others might see such events as exciting opportunities to meet new people and expand their social circles.
  • The practice of informing guests about who else will be attending a dinner party could be seen as considerate, but some might argue that a bit of mystery can add to the excitement of the event an ...

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"Larry David"

Larry David's future plans

Larry David, known for his humor, shares his unconventional future aspirations and current retirement activities.

Aspiring to be an offensive coordinator for an NFL team despite lacking football expertise

Larry David humorously expresses his desire to become an offensive coordinator for an NFL team even though he lacks experience in football play-calling or strategy. He jokes that if he were to dedicate time to studying and had the right mentorship, he could excel at creating plays, believing play-calling aligns with creative tasks which he is familiar with.

Being mostly retired and now just relaxing, reading books, watching TV, and p ...

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Larry David's future plans

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Larry David humorously expresses his desire to become an offensive coordinator for an NFL team despite lacking experience in football play-calling or strategy. He believes that with the right mentorship and dedication to studying, he could excel at creating plays, drawing parallels between play-calling and the creative tasks he is familiar with.
  • Jason Bateman's statement about Larry David being mostly retired suggests that Larry David has significantly reduced his work commitments and is now primarily focused on leisure activities. This implies that Larry David is no longer actively pursuing new pr ...

Counterarguments

  • While Larry David's aspiration to become an offensive coordinator is humorous, it may underestimate the complexity and depth of knowledge required to succeed in such a role in the NFL.
  • Suggesting that play-calling is similar to other creative tasks might overlook the specific strategic and analytical skills that are essential for football play-calling.
  • Although Larry David is enjoying retirement, it's possible tha ...

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