In the previous episode of I Love LA, the narrative explored how a certain group of young adults in Los Angeles struggle to understand true intimacy without some form of give-and-take. In “They Can’t All Be Jeremys,” it seems this transactional approach to relationships is taken as a given. Authentic connections are rare when you’re busy hunting down car deals, chasing internet fame, or simply trying to impress your boss.

Despite its modern dressing, I Love LA is at its core a traditional sitcom. This becomes evident in episodes like this one, where Dylan (Josh Hutcherson) and Maia (Rachel Sennott) have dinner with Maia’s boss—a scenario reminiscent of classics like Bewitched and I Love Lucy. Although Maia’s job might be ultra-modern (she starts off the episode securing a lucrative social media deal), the surrounding elements feel somewhat retro or straight out of mid-2010s comedy.

However, the show does hint at a deeper commentary about ambitious, internet-savvy, cynical young people who often become their own biggest obstacles, particularly when interacting with more conventional individuals around them.

Tallulah and Tessa

Tessa (Moses Ingram), a chef, continues to be the stabilizing force Tallulah needs. As they discuss Hannah Montana in bed, Tallulah prepares for a big day; Maia’s work has landed her a Kia-sponsored post, but first, she must learn to drive, with help from her ever-reliable friend Alani.

Alani and Garrett

During their drive, Alani (True Whitaker) and Tallulah discuss Alani’s latest romantic interest, Garrett. Alani, described as somewhat airheaded, wants more from him. With Tallulah’s help in crafting messages, they get Garrett to commit to a date and even send an intimate photo, proving how predictable boys can be.

Charlie and Landry’s Bros

Charlie gets a chance to dress Landry and is determined not to waste it. Despite choosing an unexpected outfit, Landry’s charm and willingness to include Charlie in his close-knit group of friends take Charlie by surprise. This group, unlike Charlie’s usual friends, supports each other deeply, a stark contrast to the mocking and sarcasm Charlie is used to.

Thrown into a wholesome environment, Charlie is confronted with a new way of relating that doesn’t rely on sarcasm or neglect. This revelation comes after a night of excess leads to an embarrassing moment during a morning jog with the group, where Landry offers genuine support instead of ridicule.

Maia and Dylan

As for Maia, she finds herself increasingly alienated from Dylan, who seems out of place at influencer gatherings and indifferent to the superficial charm required there. Their visit to Alyssa and Jeremy’s house for dinner is crucial for Maia, who aims to charm her way into a Forbes photo shoot. However, the evening goes awry when Jeremy is incapacitated by a migraine triggered by Maia’s perfume, and Maia catches him in a compromising situation.

The night reveals the facade of Alyssa and Jeremy’s perfect life and leaves Maia questioning her relationship with Dylan, who remains oblivious to the superficial games of their social circle.

Random Musings

• • Did anyone else find the opening scene with Dylan and Maia, which quickly escalated from a debate on gun control to a tense, armed confrontation, reminiscent of a sketch from YouTube’s 2018 era?
• • Is Odessa A’zion’s performance outshining I Love LA, both elevating the script and highlighting the show’s inability to match her dynamic presence?
• • The array of vintage and ironic T-shirts this episode, including Tallulah in a Wi Spa tee and Garrett in a Viper Room shirt, was a highlight. Props to Charlie’s Cher tweet shirt.
• • Will Dylan ever finish reading The Rise And Fall Of The Third Reich?
• • Will Alani ever recount a normal childhood story that doesn’t involve questionable activities from her father’s acquaintances?
• • Following a meeting about a Clueless reboot, wasn’t it apt that I Love LA updated Cher’s driving mishap with Tallulah, arguably much more adept, behind the wheel?
• • For those who enjoyed the Landry and his entourage storyline, check out Lurker for a deep dive into fandom and friendship in L.A.’s online fame culture.
• • This episode delivered HBO’s signature male nudity with Garrett’s fleeting explicit photo.