Imagine waiting over a decade for your favorite show to return, only to find it’s now tackling the very real, very controversial threats of AI and Hollywood strikes. That’s exactly what’s happening with The Comeback, the beloved HBO comedy that’s finally making its long-awaited return after 12 years. But here’s where it gets intriguing: this isn’t just a nostalgia trip. The show’s creator, Dan Bucatinsky, never planned for its three seasons to span 21 years, but this unexpected timeline has become its greatest strength. And this is the part most people miss: it allows us to witness the evolution of Valerie Cherish, the wannabe superstar played by Lisa Kudrow, as she navigates an entertainment industry that’s changed dramatically—from the rise of reality TV in the 2000s to the looming threat of AI today.
Originally premiering in 2005, The Comeback was pitched as a raw, unfiltered look at an actress chasing her second chance at stardom. Fast forward to now, and the mockumentary-style series is setting its sights on modern Hollywood’s biggest challenges. Bucatinsky, who also plays Kudrow’s publicist, notes, ‘There’s been a strike. The looming evil of AI is now the biggest threat to writers.’ But what makes this revival truly special is how it revisits Cherish’s journey through these new lenses. ‘To see that threat 10 years later through the eyes of a character we’ve come to love is a real gift,’ he adds.
Cherish’s character is a refreshing departure from the ruthless ambition we often see on screen. She’s driven, yes, but she never sacrifices others’ feelings to get what she wants. This unique approach makes her both relatable and inspiring, especially in an industry often criticized for its cutthroat nature. But here’s the controversial part: as Cherish now faces an AI-written sitcom, the show subtly asks whether AI is a tool or a tyrant. Bucatinsky avoids labeling it as ‘evil,’ instead framing it as a reality we all must confront. Is he right? Or is AI a threat we’re underestimating?
Beyond its commentary on Hollywood, The Comeback has evolved into a deeper exploration of how the industry impacts individuals. Through Kudrow’s Emmy-nominated performance, we see Cherish’s struggles and triumphs, her cringeworthy moments and her unyielding spirit. It’s a show that doesn’t just entertain—it challenges us to think.
In the same interview, Bucatinsky shared personal anecdotes, like how Jennifer Lopez once saved him from an embarrassing moment, and teased the actress he’d love to see make a comeback. These moments remind us why we fell in love with the show in the first place: its ability to blend humor, heart, and hard-hitting truths.
The Comeback returns to HBO in March, with all previous episodes available on HBO Max. As we eagerly await its revival, one question lingers: Can Valerie Cherish conquer the challenges of modern Hollywood, or will the industry—and AI—get the best of her? Let us know what you think in the comments. And while you’re at it, subscribe to our YouTube channel for more insights from Obsessed: The Podcast, where we dive into stories like these every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The conversation starts now—are you ready to join it?
