Here’s a bold statement: Tim Robinson doesn’t just fit into genres—he becomes the genre. While some creators stretch themselves to adapt to various styles, Robinson flips the script, bending genres to fit his uniquely bizarre and hilarious vision. This approach has given us gems like Friendship, and now, The Chair Company, a conspiracy thriller premiering October 12th on HBO, that feels like it could only exist in Robinson’s mind. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is Robinson’s singular voice a genius move or a creative limitation? Let’s dive in.
The series kicks off with Ron Trosper (Robinson) on the cusp of a major work project, while his daughter Natalie (Sophia Lillis) plans her wedding and his wife Barb (Lake Bell) pursues her own business dreams. Life seems picture-perfect—until a seemingly minor incident at Ron’s workplace sends him spiraling into a conspiracy theory rabbit hole. And this is the part most people miss: HBO’s embargo prevents us from revealing the specifics, but trust me, it’s the kind of small indignity that lodges itself under your skin and refuses to let go. Is Ron uncovering a deep, dark truth, or is it all in his head? The show keeps you guessing.
Over the first seven of eight episodes, Robinson and co-creator Zach Kanin masterfully riff on classic conspiracy tropes while showcasing Robinson’s signature on-screen strangeness. Ron’s investigation is a masterclass in modern cyberstalking, complete with his trademark scream-yelling and an obsession with patterned shirts. Yet, beneath the laughs, there’s a genuine story about a man grappling with a mystery that may be more real—or more mundane—than he realizes. Here’s the kicker: What if the real conspiracy is how easily our minds can turn tiny moments into monumental obsessions?
Directors Andrew DeYoung (Friendship) and Aaron Schimberg (A Different Man) expertly blend comedy and suspense, ensuring the show’s rhythms keep you on the edge of your seat. Every character has their own intriguing subplot, from a passed-over coworker finding solace in blowing bubbles to Ron’s assistant inviting him to church. Even Ron’s past is oddly specific and far from cliché—no affairs or drug abuse here, just something delightfully weird.
Robinson’s dialogue remains razor-sharp, with lines like “my hand pushed him” delivering both humor and character depth. His performance is his most nuanced yet, balancing Ron’s high-strung paranoia with grounded, relatable moments. The supporting cast shines too, with Lou Diamond Phillips as a deceptively pleasant boss who leaves you wondering what’s really going on behind that mild demeanor. And Lake Bell? She’s a revelation, matching Robinson’s energy in a way few co-stars have managed. Their chemistry as a long-married couple is undeniable, selling decades of partnership in a single shared glance over a meal.
Robinson’s journey—from Saturday Night Live to Netflix to HBO—is a testament to the power of an original voice. With The Chair Company, he proves his brand of comedy can sustain a full season, creating something special, weird, and undeniably his. But here’s the question: Is Robinson’s niche too narrow, or is he redefining what comedy can be? Let’s debate in the comments.
The Chair Company premieres Sunday, October 12th on HBO and HBO Max. Don’t miss the trailer below—it’s as quirky and intriguing as you’d expect from Robinson.
