Entourage

Entourage is an American comedy-drama television series that premiered on HBO on July 18, 2004 and concluded on September 11, 2011, after eight seasons. The series was created and largely written by Doug Ellin and chronicles the acting career of Vincent Chase (Adrian Grenier), a young A-list movie star, and his childhood friends from Queens, New York City, as they navigate the unfamiliar terrain of Los Angeles, California. The series deals with themes of male friendship and real-life situations in modern-day Hollywood. The show is known for its array of guest stars, usually featuring at least a celebrity per episode.

Entourage revolves around Vincent Chase (Adrian Grenier). His best friend and manager is Eric Murphy (Kevin Connolly). “E,” as his friends call him, is based on the show’s executive producer Mark Wahlberg’s friend. Vincent’s older half-brother, Johnny “Drama” Chase (Kevin Dillon), is Vince’s personal chef, trainer and bodyguard. Johnny is a C-list actor who was in the fictional show Viking Quest during his younger days. His role in the new fictional hit show Five Towns had begun to resurrect his fame and career, although he still received less acknowledgment than he would have liked for it. 

Rounding out the entourage of friends is Salvatore “Turtle” Assante (Jerry Ferrara), who is another of Vince’s old friends from childhood. Turtle’s official role is as Vince’s driver and assistant, though his value as such is often brought into question. Ari Gold (Jeremy Piven, Ellen, Mr. Selfridge) is Vince’s abrasive but lovable agent. The role has led to several nominations and Emmy Awards for Piven. Ari is based on Wahlberg’s real-life agent Ari Emanuel.