Shapster11 I borrowed the lawyer's joke to make a point about Arliss, the agent. Devoid of real consistent ethics Arli$$ Michaels is the epitome of the complex character who treads equally on the honorable side and the ethically challenged. Mix in a bit of conscience with a dash of capitalistic greed and that describes Arli$$ and the AMM Management team.As for the players they are (were) first rate. Robert Wuhl is phenomenal as the namesake character Arliss Michaels. Combining terrific story lines with a real sense of what and how an agent thinks this comedian turned actor hits a bullseye. The show was, after all, his idea and creation. Jim Turner is ideal as the former jock, first round draft pick and first Arli$$ client, playboy burnout Kirby Carlisle. Michael Boatman is superb as Stanley Babson, the erstwhile V.P. of Finance who often attempts to induce some morality and class into the organization. Occasionally Stanley is faced with the perplexing situation of doing what is right or what is best for the client?, AMM?, or Stanley? Finally there is Sandra Oh as Rita Wu, Arli$$' long suffering secretary. Forever loyal Rita is underpaid, under-appreciated, and under-minded by Arli$$ and almost always Kirby. Rita has her dilemma's of conscience as well but she is insightful yet gullible and always longing to meet Mr. Right so she can quit her job which she really loves. Sound confusing? It is because the show displayed all the nuances of good character development and story lines.Mix this all in with great guest stars from sports and entertainment and you get a rapid, fast paced 1/2 hour show never wanting for a good laugh or a tear. Arliss has been gone since 2002 and is now a regular late night entry onto ESPN Classic's repertoire. The only problem is this show, like many made for cable, does not have points at which commercial breaks are accounted for and language is censored thereby lessening the fun for those of us fans. Yet, for the newcomer, a whole new generation can enjoy the comic timing and plot lines. Some of the athletes are now dated in time but it is easy to follow. A highly recommended show!!!

LivingDog Arli$$ is beyond brilliant. It is down-to-earth, greedy, and real! I am not a sports fan, but I can't wait to see the next present in store for me when I watch Arli$$. There is no show in TV's history that is able to entertain and move you at the same time, than Arli$$.The cast:Robert Wuhl as Arliss Michaels should receive an EmmyJim Turner as Kirby Carlisle should receive an EmmySandra Oh as Rita Wu should receive an Emmy (and I luv her! :)Michael Boatman as Stanley Babson should receive an EmmyI can't imagine a better cast. They all perform 110%. They bring their characters to life. This show is incredible!!!-Zafoid

Evil_Fonzie HBO is responsible for some of the most groundbreaking programming to grace the medium of television in the past decade, that is why I am amazed that they continue to broadcast this show. It is just not funny, it is almost as if Robert Wuhl took the "ruthless sports agent" idea from Jerry Maguire and decided to make it not funny or amusing in any way. This show is a waste of time.

jimmy-113 ive seen Arliss quite a few times now, though i never go out of my way to watch it like i do south park or the simpsons..but still, it is an entertaining look at the world of sports agents and the like..only watch it though if nothing else is on..pretty good!