Take a Seat for Tim Robinson’s The Chair Company Next Month

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Approximately one year after receiving a series order from HBO, Tim Robinson and Zach Kanin’s new comedy titled “The Chair Company” has officially set its premiere date: Sunday, October 12, at 10 p.m. Although the show’s tagline – “Following an embarrassing workplace incident, a man (Robinson) delves into an extensive conspiracy” – doesn’t disclose many specifics, the series shares similarities with previous works of the duo: A narrative sitcom like their prematurely canceled “Detroiters“, “The Chair Company” portrays a character struggling to regain dignity after severe humiliation, which is a common theme in “I Think You Should Leave“. However, don’t expect Robinson and Kanin to explain the show’s nature or how they arrived at its format. “There’s no thought process behind it,” Robinson tells Vulture. “It’s not premeditated. It’s not intentional.

In terms of visual style, the show has some similarities with the 2025 film “Friendship,” directed by Andrew DeYoung and featuring Robinson and Paul Rudd. DeYoung is an executive producer for “The Chair Company” and directed its premiere episode. At first glance, the main character in the series, William Ronald Trosper, portrayed by Robinson, may seem reminiscent of his “Friendship” character, Craig Waterman, but Robinson believes his “Chair Company” character might be more palatable for viewers who are sensitive to awkward moments: “I don’t believe Ron is as tough a pill to swallow as Craig Waterman is,” he says. “I think Ron is a proud man, and like many of the characters Zach and I have worked on, doesn’t like to feel embarrassed … This time, maybe he found something he can excel at.

Joining the ensemble of this eight-episode series are Lake Bell, Sophia Lillis, Will Price, Joseph Tudisco, Lou Diamond Phillips, along with other actors who are relatively new to the scene, as per Kanin’s statement. He and Robinson prefer to keep details minimal to preserve unexpected aspects for viewers. “When I watch a show or movie,” says Kanin, “I don’t want to know anything about it. I’d rather be surprised by everything.” Here’s your first peek at the series if you wish to see it; however, if you prefer to follow Kanin’s advice and be surprised, look away straightaway.

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2025-09-08 18:54