The Comeback Season 3 explores AI in television and Valerie Cherish’s evolution

After a twelve-year hiatus, Lisa Kudrow returns as Valerie Cherish in Season 3 of The Comeback, now streaming on HBO and Crave in Canada. Unlike previous seasons, which followed Valerie navigating reality TV and the pitfalls of public exposure, the latest season situates her in a rapidly changing entertainment industry dominated by AI and algorithm-driven decisions. The series begins with a humorous recap of Valerie’s past roles, including a nod to her stint as Roxie Hart in Chicago. In Los Angeles, Valerie is offered a new television role where the show is primarily written by AI, presenting a dilemma between following her creative instincts or adhering to algorithmic suggestions. The season explores the tensions between human creativity and artificial intelligence, highlighting how the entertainment industry is adapting to new technologies. Kudrow’s performance balances wit, vulnerability, and growth, with the show maintaining its satirical tone while presenting fresh situational comedy. Supporting characters are portrayed with more exaggerated traits, and home surveillance elements offer a deeper look into Valerie’s psyche. Season 3 bridges the comedic roots of the series with contemporary issues in TV production, delivering insightful commentary on fame, creative control, and the evolving media landscape.