The internet is already bracing for disappointment after HBO announced a new sketch comedy series about American history from Larry David — and produced by the Obamas.
Variety reported that David will co-write and star in the six-part series alongside longtime collaborator Jeff Schaffer, known for their work on “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” The show is being produced through Barack and Michelle Obama’s Higher Ground Productions.
The show’s tagline hints at chaos: “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.”
Even Obama joked about the unlikely partnership, saying, “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.”
Online reaction was overwhelmingly negative. “It sounds like it’s gonna be one big lecture. I hope I’m wrong,” one user posted. Others piled on: “Get ready for the most unfunny experience of your life,” “Played out,” and “Trash propaganda I’m sure.”
Critics accused the project of being more ideological than entertaining. “We don’t need more lectures from Hollywood,” one user said bluntly.
Larry David hasn’t helped his case. He recently had a meltdown over Bill Maher dining with Donald Trump, even publishing a New York Times op-ed likening Trump to Hitler.
CNN Republican Scott Jennings slammed David’s column, saying, “This is the modern Left. It’s an attempt to intimidate people into silence…so that the next person on the American left chooses not to speak to Donald Trump.”