Hacks, the Emmy-winning comedy series, returns for its fourth season, having solidified its position as a cultural phenomenon. The show’s third season was a brilliant skewering of Hollywood, showcasing the complexities of success and power dynamics between its leads, Deborah Vance (Jean Smart) and Ava Daniels (Hannah Einbinder).
Deborah, now 73, has experienced a career renaissance thanks to her turn as the acerbic Las Vegas comedian. Her performance earned three Emmy nominations and solidified her status as a comedy legend. Ava, on the other hand, continues to shine with her portrayal of the young writer who initially clashes with Deborah before forging a creative partnership that transforms both their lives.
The new season opens just minutes after the shocking finale of the previous season, where Ava blackmails Deborah into giving her the head writer job for her new late-night show. This tense dynamic provides a wealth of conflict and comedy as the two leads are now equals in their professional relationship. The action has shifted from Las Vegas to Los Angeles, exploring the entertainment industry, its unsung heroes, and villains.
Despite this shift, Hacks remains one of the most joke-dense shows on television, with Ava still delivering physical comedy and Deborah enjoying the barbs. The show is also a wonderful exploration of LGBTQ+ culture, featuring poppers, celebrity cameos, and witty humor.
This season’s guest stars include big-name celebrities who cameo as themselves, adding to the show’s cultural prestige. Julianne Nicholson makes a stunning appearance in a multi-episode arc playing a twisted avatar for what Hollywood can do to a person. The show follows Deborah and Ava as they launch their new late-night show and navigate the challenges of making it relevant.
At its core, Hacks is a show about friendship, creative collaboration, and the complexities of power dynamics. Its focus on Deborah and Ava’s relationship makes it a magical and ingenious comedy that will continue to captivate audiences.
Source: https://slate.com/culture/2025/04/hacks-season-4-review-jean-smart-hannah-einbinder-max.html