A Legacy of Laughter and Generational Bridges
Hacks has been a groundbreaking television show that reminds audiences at home that breaking down barriers can lead to richer storytelling. As an Emmy Award-winning series, it has captivated viewers with its unique blend of humor, wit, and heart. Now, the show, led by Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder, is coming to an end.
In an interview, the cast reflected on how they have brought generations together through comedy and the legacy they will leave behind. The dynamic between Deborah Vance (Jean Smart) and Ava Daniels (Hannah Einbinder) has been central to the show’s success. Their love-hate relationship has bridged the gap between generations, showcasing their differences while highlighting their similarities.
The Impact of Hacks
The interactions between Deborah and Ava have been filled with hilarious moments and smart remarks, but they also reveal the struggles they face in both their professional and personal lives. Paul W. Downs, who plays Jimmy and is a co-creator of the series, emphasizes the importance of reflecting society through comedy.
“We always want to reflect on what’s happening in culture, in our lives,” Paul says. “Because the truth is that, especially when you laugh, it’s that thing that lubricates the way that you think. Your mind is open when you’re laughing. You can change your point of view.”
This approach has allowed the show to explore various topics in a balanced manner, giving the audience a chance to reflect on their own perspectives.
Hacks’ Final Season
As Hacks comes to an end in its fifth season, Deborah and Ava are working together to right some wrongs. After leaving the late-night genre, Deborah is unable to perform stand-up due to a no-competition clause, so she is doing comedy in Singapore. However, when fake news of her death begins to circulate online, Deborah is fired up and ready to fight back.
Co-creator Lucia Aniello explains that this situation forces Deborah to reflect on her legacy. “When Deborah is faced with the reporting of her death and in her mind, misreporting of her legacy, I think it puts into focus; ‘Okay, if this is what they’re saying about me, what do I want this to say about me? And how do I want to be presented to the world next time this happens?’”
Ava’s professional future is also on the line, and the duo sets out to win their greatest triumph yet.
The Cast’s Reflections
Hannah Einbinder shares her excitement about the dynamic between her character and Deborah in season five. “It’s nice that we were able to kind of be on the same team,” she says. “I think that that’s so fun for us. And of course, we have our sparring throughout, which we also enjoy just as much.”
Jean Smart adds that season five brings back the profound silliness that the show is known for. “Things got a little dark [in season four]. I worried people would hate me [at the time] but they were willing to go anywhere with us, which was wonderful.”
The final season features talent agents Kayla (Megan Stalter) and Jimmy, as well as cameos from Hollywood stars including Ann Dowd and Leslie Bibb.
Jean Smart on the Series Finale
Jean Smart admits she never knew how Hacks would end and was surprised by the finale. “I have never asked them [the creators] how the series was going to end from the day we met until the finale,” she explains. “And I didn’t really have an idea of how it would end. I wanted to be surprised. But when they first talked to me about how it was going to end, I was not sure I was happy about it. But I said, ‘Hey, you know, I trust you guys, I always have, it always turns out great’. And it did. So now I think it’s kind of perfect [way to end].”
Saying goodbye has been emotional for the cast. Jean reflects on the bond they have formed with each other and the crew. “It’s been such a joy and not being with these people and not being with our crew who we’ve just come to adore… we’re all really good friends [is sad],” she says.
Megan Stalter recalls the emotional moment when she wrapped production. “We were in Vegas and I was very vulnerable,” she says. “Jimmy and I wrapped the same day and we looked at each other like, ‘Gosh, that was it’.”
A Legacy That Will Endure
While it’s never easy to say goodbye, Hacks has always been about legacy. The finale encapsulates what the show set out to achieve from the beginning. “It is about what we set out in the very first episode; your legacy and what you leave behind,” Paul says.
Hacks season five is available now on Stan Streaming Content.
