As HBO’s iconic comedy series Curb Your Enthusiasm prepares to air its final episode this coming Sunday, fans and critics alike are reflecting on the show’s remarkable legacy. Throughout its 12 seasons, the comedy series gave us bra-sniffing dogs, angry Michael J. Fox, angry Conan O’Brien, accidental manslaughter, ridiculous Georgia voting rules, two penises on Susi’s billboard and everything in between.
While these moments are unforgettable, the series should also be celebrated for showcasing a vibrant and active lifestyle for seniors.
The often overlooked group by TV and advertising execs, was alive and kicking thanks to shows like Curb and Netflix’s Frankie and Grace. Both series give the middle finger to the conventional wisdom that seniors should lead sedentary and uneventful lives.
The characters in Curb defied expectations by embracing a wide array of activities, from golfing to dining out to politics and race to navigating the complexities of romantic relationships.
You know, real life.
This vibrant and active lifestyle was accomplished by casting extremely talented seniors including Larry David (76), Jeff Garlin (60), the late Richard Lewis (75), Ted Danson (76), Susie Essman (67), and more. JB Smoove and Cheryl Hines are the youngsters of the ensemble clocking in at 58 each.
Lewis, who passed away earlier this year, brought his trademark humor and charm to the role of Larry’s loyal friend, providing audiences with countless memorable moments throughout the series.
Remember Season 5’s “The Ski Lift?” In a daring bid to procure a new kidney for his ailing friend Lewis, David embarked on a ski trip.
The episode unfolded as Larry, Cheryl, Jeff, and Susie welcomed the head of a kidney consortium and his daughter on a skiing vacation. However, things quickly took a hilariously chaotic turn when Larry realizes that the consortium head and his daughter are Orthodox Jews. To maintain the facade, Larry must improvise and adopt Orthodox customs, while Susie reluctantly plays the role of his wife.
The episode masterfully navigated the absurdity of Larry’s Orthodox impersonation, leading to a series of comedic encounters and mishaps. As tensions rise on the ski lift, the episode reaches a climactic crescendo when Larry and the consortium head’s daughter find themselves stranded. The ensuing chaos involves Larry resorting to desperate measures, including consuming edible underwear for sustenance.
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Garlin, aged 60, has been a comedic force as Larry’s affable manager and friend, bringing his unique brand of humor to the show’s ensemble cast. Danson, aged 76, and Essman, aged 67, round out the ensemble with their memorable portrayals of Ted and Susie, respectively, adding depth and hilarity to the show’s ensemble dynamics.
David’s character, in particular, has served as a testament to the vitality and resilience of seniors. Throughout the series, his character engaged in various physical activities and social interactions, demonstrating that age is no barrier to leading a fulfilling and adventurous life.
In addition to its senior lifestyle portrayal, Curb has tackled taboo subjects surrounding sexuality and intimacy among older adults with refreshing honesty and humor. By addressing these topics head-on, the show has sparked important conversations and helped to break down the stigma surrounding aging and sexuality.
As we prepare to bid farewell to Curb Your Enthusiasm, we are left with a legacy of laughter, insight, and inspiration. The show’s portrayal of senior lifestyle has left an indelible mark on television, paving the way for more diverse and inclusive representations of aging in the years to come.
As Larry David and the rest of the Curb Your Enthusiasm cast take their final bow, they leave behind a legacy of humor, heart, and humanity that will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.
And hope for aging. That’s pretty, pretty good.
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Colin Costello is the West Coast Editor of Reel 360. Contact him at colin@reel360.com or follow him on X at @colinthewriter1
