Larry David's New HBO Series 'Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness' Reviewed

Larry David’s latest HBO series, *Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness: An Almost History of America*, debuted on June 27. Produced by Barack and Michelle Obama’s Higher Ground, the eight‑episode satire revisits U.S. history with David playing various historical figures and the Obamas appearing in a brief cameo.

Critical response is mixed. Rotten Tomatoes reports a 57 % Tomatometer score and a 41 % audience rating. Reviewers praised the Obamas’ involvement but described the format as uneven, citing repetitive jokes and a “one‑joke” premise. The Guardian gave it 2/5, calling it “faith and nostalgia…almost indistinguishable from charity,” while TIME noted it may appeal only to “a certain kind of dad.”

Actress Susie Essman appears as a fictionalized Susan B. Anthony. She told *CBS Sunday Morning* that she researched the activist but found the preparation “served no purpose” for the comedic scene, highlighting the show’s blend of historical reference and absurdist humor.