LOS ANGELES — A new seven-episode sketch comedy series titled "Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness," created by comedian Larry David, premiered on HBO and HBO Max. Barack Obama and Michelle Obama are producers for the series.

David, who created the series "Seinfeld" and "Curb Your Enthusiasm," incorporates historical and personal themes into his new work. The show features a sketch where David portrays a Founding Father who objects to sharing dessert. Another sketch shows him as a World War I soldier pretending to be dead.

"If I was in that war, knowing who I am, I would run and pretend I got shot," David said. He also portrays a man sitting next to Rosa Parks and a passenger on the Wright Brothers' airplane. Susan B. Anthony is portrayed by Susie Essman in a separate sketch. David prepared for this role by watching a Ken Burns documentary about Anthony. "I just thought it would be funny if I could play a really sexist character," David said.

The comedian has posters, pictures, and a version of the Preamble to the Declaration of Independence in his Los Angeles office. This version includes clauses like, "It is illegal to ask to share an umbrella." David explained, "Because the person who has the umbrella is getting wet, 'cause you're squeezing in." He added, "Bring your own umbrella!" The document also states, "It is illegal to stroke one's beard," a practice David said he dislikes. "I can't stand seeing men doing this," he said. Another part specifies, "After January 7th, it is illegal to wish anyone a 'Happy New Year!'"

"I think there should've been some humor in that Declaration," David said. He added, "There should be jokes in everything." Barack Obama provided notes on the series. "He really liked the show," David said. Regarding travel, David stated, "Those planes that keep you on the runway? Such needless torture."