You Won’t Believe Jerrod Carmichael’s Shocking Defense of ‘Therapy Comedy’!

Welcome to Screen Gab, the newsletter for those of us grappling with the new and unconventional reality show.

This week Matt Brennan, our editor, reflects on the “Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show” in our Catch Up section. He suggests that this show reveals more about Carmichael’s creative process than about the comedian himself, which may leave those seeking personal insights disappointed.

In the 132nd edition of Screen Gab, Marcus Scribner joins us to bid farewell to Andre Johnson Jr., a character he’s portrayed for a decade on “black-ish” and “grown-ish.” Additionally, we provide you with streaming recommendations for the upcoming weekend.

In Case You Missed It

Crucial stories you may have overlooked

Jonathan Bailey’s best performance yet, fueled by vulnerability: After impressive roles in “Crashing,” “Cock” and “Bridgerton,” the actor gives his greatest performance yet in “Fellow Travelers.” He channels soft power, a new source of inspiration.

Sam Rubin at KTLA: A local morning news pioneer with a passion for Hollywood: Rubin was a trailblazer in early-morning TV broadcasting at Channel 5 and was known for his mostly positive coverage of Hollywood.

Jimmy Fallon’s 10-year stint on ‘The Tonight Show’ sets him apart from his predecessors: “The Tonight Show” is a legendary show that has been on air for nearly seven decades. Now, it celebrates 10 years with Jimmy Fallon, whose tenure significantly deviates from those of past hosts.

Nicola Coughlan steps into the limelight on ‘Bridgerton’: Nicola Coughlan’s character, Penelope Featherington, takes center stage this season of “Bridgerton.” The development mirrors the actor’s own life and career.

What to Watch

Suggestions from the film and TV experts at The Times

“Bodkin” (Netflix)

The term “bodkin” is most recognized from Shakespeare as a dagger used to bring about one’s own demise. In this context, however, it refers to an eerie Irish village where an American podcaster named Gilbert (played by Will Forte) is investigating a 25-year-old mystery: the disappearance of three people on the Irish Night of the Dead. As the seven-episode series progresses, new facts about the case emerge, and our heroes become both fascinating and annoying to the eccentric villagers and each other. As the story unfolds, things get wild and emotionally stirring. —Robert Lloyd

“John Mulaney Presents: Everybody’s in L.A.” (Netflix)

Despite stating his hosting stint was a temporary one, John Mulaney proves he could be the next big thing in late-night TV with “Everybody’s in L.A.” The show, produced in conjunction with the Netflix Is a Joke comedy festival, is a wild and sometimes chaotic blend of late-night and sketch comedy that feels like a throwback to the ‘70s. Mulaney’s unique style shines through in his monologues, featuring sharp one-liners about his new city, delivered with a good rhythm, clever criticism, and a sprinkle of eccentricity. —Kaitlyn Huamani

MORE TO READ: A guide to the hyperlocal references in John Mulaney’s ‘Everybody’s in L.A.’

Stay Current

Get the scoop on the film or TV series everyone’s talking about

The “Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show” on Max, concluding Friday, is less about the personal life of its star and more about his creative process. Carmichael admits that “performance protects,” and the show avoids any significant revelations about its subject. Instead, it provides an intriguing look into the comedian’s creative journey, showing how he transforms his real-life relationships into his docuseries and then into his comedy act. The show is a testament to the fact that storytelling is a craft, even when it is based on personal experiences. —Matt Brennan

Spotlight Guest

A weekly conversation with actors, writers, directors, and more about their work and what they’re watching

After spending 10 years playing the nerdy, optimistic, and sometimes clueless Andre Johnson Jr., Marcus Scribner is ready to move on to new things. In anticipation of the final season of “grown-ish” premiering on Wednesday, Scribner visited Screen Gab to talk about his character’s growth alongside his own, his newfound love for techno music, and more. —Matt Brennan

What have you been watching lately that you can’t stop recommending?

Last year, I couldn’t help but rave about “The Holdovers” [Peacock]. This year, I’m absolutely loving “Challengers.” The performances were stellar, and the soundtrack was excellent. As for shows, I’m really enjoying “The Other Two” [Max]. I think it flew under the radar a bit.

What’s your go-to “comfort watch,” the film or TV show you keep going back to?

I’ve returned to “Blades of Glory” [Paramount+] and “Zoolander” [Paramount+] many times. A recent favorite of mine is “The Batman” [Max, Tubi] with Robert Pattinson. It’s one of my new favorite movies.

After 10 years of portraying Junior on “black-ish” and “grown-ish,” how do you feel you’ve changed the most? How do you think he’s changed the most?

I feel like Junior and I have grown together in a strange way. I’ve incorporated a lot of myself into the character of Junior, and it’s been interesting to see how we’ve both evolved. I admire Junior’s enduring optimism, which I share.

When “black-ish” concluded, we asked the cast to share their favorite episodes. What’s your favorite episode of “grown-ish” and why?

I love our finale episode. I think we’ve given the characters a definite ending that feels real while also celebrating the years we’ve spent with them.