‘Hacks’ delivers laughs, heart and one of television’s best creative partnerships

June 18th, 2026

For viewers who prefer to wait until a television series has reached its conclusion before committing to a binge-watch, HBO’s Hacks may be the perfect addition to the queue.

The acclaimed comedy recently concluded its fifth and final season, capping off a run that earned widespread critical praise and multiple Emmy Awards. At the center of the series are Deborah Vance, a legendary Las Vegas comedian portrayed by Jean Smart, and Ava Daniels, a young comedy writer played by Hannah Einbinder.

When audiences first meet the pair, both are at professional crossroads. Deborah is struggling to maintain her relevance in a changing comedy landscape, while Ava finds herself sidelined in Hollywood after a social media post goes viral for the wrong reasons.

Their shared agent pairs them together in hopes of a productive collaboration. Instead, their first encounters are marked by conflict, sarcasm and mutual frustration — fertile ground for a comedy built on sharp dialogue and clashing personalities.

Over five seasons, the relationship between Deborah and Ava evolves through betrayals, lawsuits, firings and countless disagreements. Yet each setback ultimately strengthens their partnership, revealing a bond built on mutual respect and creative ambition.

While Hacks offers an entertaining look behind the curtain of the comedy and entertainment industries, it is equally a story about artistic collaboration. Deborah and Ava are talented in their own right, but together they push one another to greater heights than either could achieve alone.

The series is also remarkably funny. Its quick wit, memorable one-liners and expertly crafted situations reward both casual viewers and devoted fans.

Much of the show’s success can be attributed to Jean Smart’s performance. Smart has won the Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series every time she has been nominated for the role. Her portrayal of Deborah Vance balances confidence and vulnerability, creating a character who is often difficult, stubborn and flawed, yet impossible not to root for.

Beyond comedy, Hacks explores themes of gender, ambition and resilience. The series examines the challenges women face in industries that have historically excluded them from positions of power and influence. It also highlights the importance of female friendships and mentorships, showing how meaningful relationships can transform lives when given time and care to grow.

For viewers looking for a smart comedy with memorable characters, heartfelt storytelling and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, Hacks is well worth the watch.

Christine Burright is a graduate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s MFA program in screenwriting, a filmmaker and an aspiring television writer. She contributes film and television reviews to Pass the Popcorn on KVNO’s Arts Today.