Appreciating Garry Shandling

I recently binge watched Jerry Seinfeld's COMEDIANS IN CARS GETTING COFFEE. The show delves into the minds of comedians, examining what makes them tick and that never ending quest for a homerun in the humor department.

When the episode with Garry Shandling came on, it hit me how much of my writing education I owe to being a part of It's Garry Shandling's Show. For the better part of seasons two-four, I had the honor to be the show's assistant art director. Occasionally, I can even be found in the background (gold sweater).

The opportunity to watch the writing process was golden not unlike my sweater in the above photo. The show aimed for a combination of heart and hilarity, which in my opinion it did with brilliance. It was fascinating to watch the revision process of each script as the journey to find the perfect jokes, emotion of the human condition, and infusion of intelligent wit was undertaken in every episode. It was beyond a blast to be a part of the show.

I was hooked from that groundbreaking first episode in season one when Garry destroyed the fourth wall and brought the audience into his character's living room. It was a dream come true when I joined the show and its wildly creative environment in its second season.

Garry's passing was very sad for me as I reminisced and reappreciated everything I learned from my time with the show. I will always be grateful for the experience and to the writing mentors who never knew the inspiration they bestowed on this writer's heart and mind. Special thanks to Garry Shandling, Alan Zweibel, Ed Solomon, Tom Gammill, and Max Pross who showed me process, perseverance, and the creative joy of being a writer.  

I recently came across this interview with Garry about the writing process of Its Garry Shandling's Show.

Enjoy.