CHICAGO – I remember when “Entourage” first took off back in 2004 wondering how Doug Ellin and his talented cast could possibly keep this concept fresh for the length of a series. Wouldn’t we get tired of watching Vinnie Chase (Adrian Grenier) try to make it big? Or worse, would these guys turn into the preening celebrities that the show at least somewhat skewered at the start? Could they keep it fresh? Even the most diehard fans of the HBO hit would admit they’ve struggled to do so but things were looking up regarding a solid final arc after last season, one that actually injected a bit of edge into the program by allowing Vince to deal with addiction. The show still wasn’t up to the standard of the first 3-4 seasons but it wasn’t as bad as season six.
So, where does that leave us? Does “Entourage” go out on an inspired, daring note? It sure doesn’t seem like it. The season premiere is a whiny mess with little understanding of what worked about the program in the first place. Remember the time when you wanted Vinnie Chase’s life? Or wanted to be one of his loyal friends? I understand taking a character through ups and downs but Vincent Chase isn’t a guy I’d really want to hang out with now much less be. And that’s the biggest problem with late “Entourage.” In its prime, these four (five if you count Ari) guys were like friends you got to see once a week. That sense of fun, playful friendship is gone.