Were Garry Shandling And Jerry Seinfeld Friends? A Look At Their Complex Relationship

Garry Shandling and Jerry Seinfeld were close friends. Shandling appeared on Seinfeld’s show *Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee* in January 2016.

Their friendship was well-documented, often appearing together in various projects and interviews. They both shared a similar comedic sensibility, with a focus on observational humor and a wry perspective on everyday life. Their bond was evident in their interactions, both on and off-screen.

Shandling often spoke highly of Seinfeld, praising his comedic genius and his ability to find humor in the mundane. He even mentioned Seinfeld’s influence on his own stand-up routine in several interviews. Seinfeld, in turn, acknowledged Shandling’s influence on his own career, calling him a “pioneer” of stand-up comedy.

Their shared love for comedy, coupled with their mutual respect and admiration, cemented their friendship. They even collaborated on several projects, including a segment on the HBO series *Larry Sanders Show*, where Shandling played the host of a fictional late-night talk show. This shared experience further strengthened their bond.

The comedy world was saddened by Shandling’s passing in 2016, and Seinfeld paid tribute to his friend through a heartfelt eulogy, emphasizing their close friendship and the impact he had on the comedy landscape.