Larry David and Obamas Collaborate on American History Comedy Series

In a landmark collaboration, comedian Larry David and former President Barack Obama, alongside Michelle Obama, are set to produce a new sketch comedy series focused on American history for HBO. Announced on July 10, 2025, the series aims to commemorate the United States' 250th anniversary, blending humor with historical narratives. The yet-to-be-titled series marks a significant partnership between the iconic comedian and the renowned former first couple, leveraging their respective talents to celebrate a pivotal moment in American history.

The official logline for the series states: “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.” This statement encapsulates the comedic premise that will likely explore historical events through the lens of David's unique humor.

Larry David, known for co-creating the acclaimed sitcom Seinfeld and for his long-running HBO series Curb Your Enthusiasm, expressed both excitement and trepidation about the project. In a press release, David humorously noted, “I’ve celebrated with a three-day foam party after Curb ended, but after a violent allergic reaction to the suds, I yearned to return to my simple life as a beekeeper… Alas, it is with a heavy heart that I return to television.”

This series will be produced by Higher Ground, the production company established by the Obamas in 2017, which has previously focused on projects that highlight significant social issues and narratives. In an official statement, Barack Obama remarked, “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.” This quote exemplifies the potential for a comedic exploration of serious topics, which aligns with the Obamas’ vision for Higher Ground.

Amy Gravitt, head of comedy programming at HBO, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We’re thrilled that Larry is coming back to HBO, this time with Higher Ground, to give us a glimpse at our shared history as we celebrate our semiquincentennial.”

The series is anticipated to feature sketches written by David and Jeff Schaffer, with plans to include former cast members from Curb Your Enthusiasm and various guest stars. This collaboration represents a crossover between political leadership and entertainment, paving the way for new avenues of storytelling in the television landscape.

Historically, comedy has served as a powerful medium for reflection on societal issues, and this project could provide a unique perspective on American history during a significant anniversary. As the nation approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, the intersection of comedy and history might engage audiences in a way that is both entertaining and educational, prompting discussions about the past and its implications for the future.

The project also signals a shift in content creation, as Higher Ground expands its reach to HBO, having previously worked extensively with Netflix. Higher Ground has produced notable works, including the Oscar-winning documentary American Factory and the autobiographical film Becoming, featuring Michelle Obama. This new series could enhance its reputation further by merging humor with historical narratives, thereby attracting a diverse viewership.

As the premiere date approaches, viewers will be eager to see how Larry David’s distinctive comedic style intertwines with the Obamas' vision for storytelling. This collaboration not only highlights the importance of historical reflection but also the role of comedy in shaping public discourse in contemporary society.