John Lurie’s show just wasn’t something we got into around here, but nevertheless, we wish to report that the show will not be returning for a fourth season. Note, however, that even though we couldn’t get into it, that doesn’t mean we’re alright with it. HBO shows have been dropping away at alarming rates as of late and the schedule is getting quite sparse. And, of course, with the industry strikes, it will remain that way for a while. So, you see, PAINTING WITH JOHN was better than nothing.
The series now archived on Max, ran for three seasons for a total of eighteen (18) installments.
Part meditative tutorial, part fireside chat, the unscripted comedy was directed by and starred cult favorite musician, actor, director, painter, and The Lounge Lizards cofounder John Lurie. Viewers watched him hone his intricate watercolor techniques and share his reflections on what he’s learned about life.
But did he just run out of life reflections all of a sudden or did HBO cut ties? You didn’t hear this grumbling from me, but more than likely WBD needed to save the money it cost to produce Lurie’s gig on his island home in order to pay for more installments of House Hunters. Either way, he walked away from the series a bit sadder.
To the followers, you might see him out & about again, but for now you have the memories of contemplating the complex songs of tree frogs, moon dancing and Lurie’s ruminations on the 1962 World Series. HBO made the statement, “John Lurie is a singular artist whose wide range of talent speaks for itself. Among so many other things, we fell in love with his gift for storytelling and his ability to take us on such a vivid and surprising journey. We loved working together with him on three incredible seasons of Painting with John.”
