Garry Emmanuel Shandling (born November 29, 1949), is an American comedian, actor, writer, producer, and director. He is best known for his work in It's Garry Shandling's Show and The Larry Sanders Show.Shandling began his career writing for sitcoms such as Sanford and Son and Welcome Back, Kotter. He made a successful stand-up performance on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson and became a frequent guest-host on the show.