THE COMEBACK didn’t have to make a comeback and return after a 12-year hiatus. Yet, producers Lisa Kudrow and Michael Patrick King couldn’t resist bringing back everyone’s favorite fake-reality TV star, Valerie Cherish. The season did have some mid-season episodes, yet thanks to a compelling plot with “AL,” Lisa Kudrow’s performance, and some fantastic writing, I’d gladly “Cherish” seeing it return in another 12 years.
Season one focused on humility and perseverance as we followed Valerie through her ups and downs. Season two explored redemption and Valerie’s more human side. In season three, the show adds some clever commentary on the TV industry and suggests that Valerie might actually be trying to help others, even if she does so in awkward and embarrassing ways. Watching her grow from a self-centered actor to who she becomes by the end is reason enough to watch THE COMEBACK. Plus, Lisa Kudrow gives what might be the best performance of her career, showing every side of Valerie without losing the character’s over-the-top charm.
Final Thought: Everyone could use a little more Val Cherish in their lives.
It’s available on HBO Max.
