In the new trailer for “Kidding,” Jim Carrey’s big return to TV after more than two decades, a Mr. Rogers-esque kids-TV personality is confronted with the darker side of life and is deeply unequipped for it.
The Showtime dramedy follows Carrey as Jeff, a.k.a. Mr. Pickles, a beloved children’s entertainer who sees his own life upended as his personal relationships begin to implode. It is set to premiere Sunday, September 9.
Throughout the season, Carrey’s character begins to push back against the limits of the well-oiled machine of his show, led by executive producer, Seb (Frank Langella). Seb fears Jeff’s mental state could ruin the branding empire they’ve built, and thus begins preparing the show for a life after Jeff.
The series also stars Catherine Keener as the show’s head puppet maker who grapples with her own personal and professional life issues, as well as Judy Greer as Jeff’s estranged wife and Cole Allen as their son.
The series reunites Carrey with “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” director Michel Gondry. Guest stars include Justin Kirk, Ginger Gonzaga and Tara Lipinski.
Gondry is an executive producer on the show, and will direct several episodes including the premiere. “Kidding” was created and is executive produced by Dave Holstein, who wrote the pilot and will serve as showrunner. Other executive producers include Carrey, Michael Aguilar, Roberto Benabib, Raffi Adlan, Jason Bateman and Jim Garavente.
Watch the trailer above.