Hannah Einbinder reveals that the set of Hacks fifth and final season overflowed with “buckets” of tears during filming. The HBO comedy-drama stars Einbinder as comedy writer Ava Daniels, who partners with iconic stand-up comedian Deborah Vance, played by Jean Smart, to revitalize her career.
Emotional Reactions from the Cast and Crew
Jean Smart describes the finale as “shocking,” stating, “I don’t remember ever picturing or even imagining an ending.” She knew the series would span about five seasons but chose not to learn details in advance. “When I did find out at first, I was shocked and unsure about how I felt because it was not remotely anything I could have imagined. But then I realised, no, it’ll work because they’re writing it and they’re amazing. And so I went, ‘OK’.”
Co-showrunner Lucia Aniello admits to daily tears, saying, “I’ve been crying every day.”
Einbinder emphasizes Ava’s dedication to Deborah’s ambitions, from her first stand-up special to a potential Late Night Show or Madison Square Garden performance. “I feel like Ava is so committed to realising Deborah’s dream and to contributing to all of the various things that she wants to accomplish… But I do think that through all of their trials and tribulations, they share this legacy. And it’s a really beautiful collaboration that I feel like they both get to own.”
Plot and Full-Circle Payoffs
The final season resumes after a disastrous Singapore trip and Deborah’s live TV meltdown that derails her late-night opportunity. Fans anticipate whether Deborah and Ava climb Hollywood’s ranks intact.
Co-showrunner Paul W. Downs promises satisfying conclusions, noting, “There’s so much from the first season that’s paid off in the final episode, and in every season. I think there are seeds in every season that we pay off in the very last episode. So, I hope in that way it feels full circle and just the right amount of closure for people.”
Hacks Season 5 premieres Thursday, April 9, on HBO Max in the UK, concluding the acclaimed black comedy.
