The Kominsky Method (2018)
A sharp, warm-hearted comedy-drama about aging, friendship, and finding humor in life's most uncomfortable truths.
The Kominsky Method - Series Information
- Original Title: The Kominsky Method
- First Air Year: 2018
- Last Air Year: 2021
- Created by: Chuck Lorre
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Comedy, Drama
- Content Rating (US): TV-MA
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (25 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 22
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: November 16, 2018 (United States - TV-MA), November 16, 2018 (United Kingdom - 15), November 16, 2018 (Spain - 16), November 16, 2018 (South Korea - 19)
- Networks: Netflix
- Production Companies: Chuck Lorre Productions, Warner Bros. Television
- Production Countries: United States of America
- Alternative Titles: 柯明斯基理论 (CN), Η Μέθοδος Κομίνσκι (GR)
The Kominsky Method - Plot
An aging actor, who long ago enjoyed a brush with fame, makes his living as an acting coach.
The Kominsky Method - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see what awaits in this acclaimed Netflix comedy-drama:
Some friendships never get old.
Where to Watch The Kominsky Method
Looking for where to watch The Kominsky Method?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
The Kominsky Method - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Chuck Lorre
Main Cast
- Michael Douglas
- Sarah Baker
- Nancy Travis
- Alan Arkin
- Graham Rogers
- Melissa Tang
- Casey Thomas Brown
- Jenna Lyng Adams
- Emily Osment
- Ashleigh LaThrop
Writers
- Chuck Lorre
- Alan J. Higgins
- David Javerbaum
Executive Producers
- Chuck Lorre
- Michael Douglas
- Alan J. Higgins
The Kominsky Method - FAQs
What makes The Kominsky Method worth watching?
The chemistry between Michael Douglas and Alan Arkin is the beating heart of this show. Their banter crackles with genuine warmth and razor-sharp wit, and the series handles themes of aging, loss, and friendship with a rare blend of honesty and humor. It's funny, moving, and surprisingly profound.
Why did The Kominsky Method end after three seasons?
Alan Arkin chose not to return for a potential fourth season, and creator Chuck Lorre decided to wrap the story rather than recast or reimagine the central friendship. Season 3 was crafted as a deliberate farewell, giving Sandy Kominsky's journey a satisfying, emotionally resonant conclusion.
Where can you stream The Kominsky Method?
All three seasons are available to stream on Netflix and Netflix Standard with Ads. If you prefer to own the series, episodes can be purchased on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, and Fandango At Home.
Did The Kominsky Method win any major awards?
The series earned significant recognition, winning the Golden Globe for Best Musical or Comedy Series in 2019. Michael Douglas also took home the Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy Series, and Alan Arkin received an Emmy nomination for his portrayal of Norman Newlander.
Who plays Sandy Kominsky and Norman Newlander?
Michael Douglas plays Sandy Kominsky, a once-celebrated actor now running an acting studio in Los Angeles. Alan Arkin plays Norman Newlander, Sandy's loyal best friend and longtime talent agent. Their dynamic — sardonic, tender, and endlessly funny — is the cornerstone of the entire series.
Is The Kominsky Method based on a true story?
The series is not based on a specific true story, though creator Chuck Lorre drew from real observations about aging, friendship, and the entertainment industry. The character of Sandy Kominsky is an original creation, though the world he inhabits feels grounded in the authentic rhythms of Hollywood life.
How was The Kominsky Method received by critics?
Critics embraced the series warmly, praising its sharp writing, the lived-in performances of Douglas and Arkin, and its refreshingly candid take on growing older. It holds strong scores on Rotten Tomatoes, with reviewers consistently highlighting its emotional intelligence and the rare chemistry between its two leads.
What shows are similar to The Kominsky Method?
If you enjoyed The Kominsky Method, try Shrinking (2023) for its blend of comedy and emotional depth, After Life (2019) for its honest portrayal of grief and friendship, or Dead to Me (2019) for sharp character-driven storytelling. Vicious (2013) also offers a similarly witty take on aging companionship.
More About The Kominsky Method
Explore further details about the series on these authoritative resources: