As we move from June to July, HBO Max subscribers in the United States have plenty to look forward to in their watchlist. Season 3 of House of the Dragon is revving up with thrilling dragon battles, while Larry David playfully distorts American history just in time for the nation’s 250th anniversary. While HBO Max is known for its big-ticket shows, sometimes it’s the lesser-known evenings that keep viewers hooked, often leading to endless scrolling before settling on a rerun.
With the Fourth of July holiday approaching, here’s a look at what’s premiering from June 29 to July 5: a comedic take on history, a heartfelt reality series, and a revered classic—a no-holds-barred Western that lives up to its reputation.
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Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness
Larry David’s comical take on history
In Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness, Larry David humorously plops his exaggerated self into pivotal moments of American history, inevitably making a mess of things. This new comedy sketch series features seven episodes, bringing back David’s long-time collaborator Jeff Schaffer to improvise through historical events as part of America’s 250th birthday celebrations. Each weekly episode of about half an hour contains four sketches packed with classic awkward situations and grievances, described by Richard Roeper as “not Drunk History, but Cnge History.”
Picture Curb Your Enthusiasm dressed in period costumes—David assumes the role of a lesser-known Wright brother caught between Orville and Wilbur during their inaugural flight, exclaiming his frustrations about having to sit in the middle for five hours. Produced by the Obamas’ Higher Ground, this series also features a lineup of guest stars, including Jerry Seinfeld and Isla Fisher. The first episode premiered on June 26, with new episodes being released weekly until August 7.
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Baylen Out Loud (Season 3)
An inspiring reality series about living with Tourette’s
Even if reality television isn’t your go-to genre, Baylen Out Loud offers an authentic glimpse into the daily experiences of individuals with Tourette syndrome. Now in its third season, which began airing on HBO Max in late May, this series follows Baylen Dupree and her fiancé Colin Dooley as they navigate the ups and downs of life, including their wedding plans and a possible move related to Colin’s military career. Dupree gained fame on TikTok for sharing her journey with Tourette’s, including her involuntary outbursts. The series quickly rose to become the most-watched new cable show of its debut year.
This season dives into various themes, highlighting family dynamics and the couple’s wedding preparations, while keeping the portrayal of Tourette’s genuine and relatable. New episodes continue to drop every Wednesday on HBO Max until July 15.
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Deadwood
An HBO classic that stands the test of time
As we bid farewell to June and the number of new releases dwindles, it’s fitting to highlight Deadwood, HBO’s iconic Western that remains a benchmark for quality television. The show is set during the 1876 gold rush, chronicling the life in a rugged mining camp striving for civilization—albeit with numerous challenges along the way.
The central conflict features Seth Bullock, portrayed by Timothy Olyphant, a former lawman trying to maintain order in his hardware store, and Al Swearengen, played by Ian McShane, the unscrupulous saloon keeper who holds sway over the camp’s operations. Created by David Milch, the show captivated audiences with its complex plots and masterfully crafted dialogue, blending crude language with a poetic quality. Notably, it integrates real-life historical figures such as Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane into its narrative.
Deadwood ran for three seasons from 2004 to 2006 and later concluded with a film in 2019. Its acclaim is reflected in 28 Emmy nominations, including eight wins, and a high score on Rotten Tomatoes. If you haven’t experienced this remarkable series, now would be an excellent time to start.
Farewell, June
As you enjoy the long weekend, this trio of HBO offerings spans humor, heartfelt storytelling, and historical depth, perfect for Independence Day viewing. And if you’re looking for more recommendations, a plethora of streaming roundups exist to help you find your next watch.
