Artie Lange (episode)

Artie Lange is the first episode of Crashing. It aired on HBO on February 19, 2017.

Synopsis
An aspiring comic finds himself without a home after he catches his wife in a compromising position; Pete attempts to find solace at a New York comedy club, where he befriends cynical comedy legend Artie Lange.

Plot
While preparing dinner, Pete's wife, Jess suggests they have sex on the floor in an attempt to spice up their love life. Pete later heads out to perform in a stand-up show in the West Village although he has to buy at least two drinks in order to participate. Pete's set is a mild success, and he asks the manager about taking part in the monthly comedy show, although the manager is less than interested in Pete's request.

After spending time at the library writing jokes, Pete returns home to find Jess naked in bed. Although she initially claims to have been masturbating, a naked man walks out of the bathroom and introduces himself as Leif. Pete and Jess argue, which ends with Pete leaving and heading to New York.

Heading to a comedy club, Pete is unexpectedly given the opportunity to perform when one of the comedians, Greer, does not show up. Using the fresh break up as material does not go down well. He meets Artie Lange outside the club who tells him that his act was terrible but he takes Pete for pizza. After, Pete finds that his car is being towed.

After riding the subway all night, Pete goes home to try and reconcile with Jess. He finds her in bed with Leif again and leaves. Leif follows him and informs him that he and Jess are moving to Tampa.

Heading back to New York, Artie calls Pete to find out if he managed to get back with Jess. Meeting up, the pair get mugged in the subway. While Artie runs away, Pete refuses to give up his joke book and gets stabbed in the leg. After taking Pete to hospital, Artie agrees to let him stay on his couch for one night only.

Cast

 * Pete Holmes as Pete
 * Lauren Lapkus as Jess
 * George Basil as Leif
 * Artie Lang as Artie Lange