Jean Smart: The Legacy of ‘Hacks’ and a Career Renaissance
Early on a warm January morning in Las Vegas, the entire “Hacks” team – stars, crew, and producers – gathered at Kyu, a sushi restaurant at the Fontainebleau. It was set to be a busy day of filming, with locations scattered across the city. However, a sense of wistfulness permeated the production. This marked the final day of stateside filming for “Hacks,” and for many, a farewell.
Hannah Einbinder warned, “I’m not going to be boisterous or fun today.” When Jean Smart was reminded of the monumental moment, she instantly teared up. “We really came to feel like best friends and family, and so – yeah, that’s very hard,” she confessed.
A Touching Final Scene
As midnight approached, production moved to the Orleans Arena. The culmination of the day was a quiet, touching scene between Smart’s character, the legendary comedian Deborah Vance, and her confidante and creative partner, Ava Daniels (played by Einbinder). The scene unfolded on a walkway next to brightly lit concession stands, with dozens of crew members silently observing.
Deborah strolled through the empty arena, having just faced a tremendous disappointment, with Ava offering comfort. Few words were exchanged, yet the bond forged over five seasons spoke volumes.
Einbinder recalls, “The entire crew was just standing behind the camera watching us, like every department, in a way that’s not typical. It was almost eerie and sad and beautiful and familial. It’s seared into my brain forever.”
“An American Wrap!”
A producer announced, “After six incredible years, that is an American wrap on Hannah Einbinder and Jean Smart!” Exhausted but elated, the crowd erupted in cheers. Smart embraced Einbinder, who returned the affection with a peck on her co-star’s cheek. Their eyes were bloodshot as they soaked in the moment. Einbinder then invited the crew to join a group hug that lasted and lasted, promising future “department texts” and “semi-regular park hangs.”
From Las Vegas to Paris
The “American wrap” was just the beginning. The show traveled to Paris to film its final episode, even managing to shoot in the Louvre – a feat in itself! With a small group of only around twelve people, the final take was incredibly intimate.
Smart shared, “We said, ‘I love you,’ and cried. The last shot of us was in this long room with huge, high ceilings, and just us on a bench about the size of a couch. We were lying flat on our backs staring at the ceiling, with these 40-foot-high Dutch masters paintings, and ad-libbing. We were just making up crazy shit. It was fun to end it that way.”
A Defining Series of the Decade
“Hacks,” created by Lucia Aniello, Jen Statsky, and Paul W. Downs, returns for its final season on April 9, with the series finale airing on May 28. It’s a defining moment, as “Hacks” has become one of the most influential comedies of the decade.
An Unlikely Triumph
The show’s journey wasn’t easy. Pitched around town in 2019, it faced numerous rejections before finally finding a home at HBO Max. “Hacks” quickly proved that a “Max Original” could rival an “HBO Original,” solidifying Deborah Vance’s place among HBO comedy legends like Larry Sanders, Carrie Bradshaw, and Selina Meyer.
“Hacks” is an unlikely triumph, a show about the generational gap between two women who find growth and connection in each other. It also broke barriers by centering a woman in her 70s, something rarely seen in television. Smart, already experiencing a career renaissance with roles in “Watchmen,” “Fargo,” and “Mare of Easttown,” brilliantly paired with Einbinder, a young comic with no prior acting experience.
Representation and Authenticity
The show also stands out for its authentic LGBTQ+ depictions, with Deborah as a gay icon and a world populated by queer characters. “Hacks” fearlessly tackled the often-untouchable topic of show business, resonating with audiences.
Erin Underhill, president of Universal Television, notes, “They were able to truly ignite conversations around female relationships, and aging and representation. This will be one of those comedies that stands the test of time, even 30 to 40 years from now.”
Awards and Recognition
“Hacks” quickly became a critical darling and an awards magnet, earning Smart four Emmys and Einbinder one. The show was crowned outstanding comedy in 2024 and is a front-runner to repeat that victory.
Facing Challenges and Triumphing
The show’s journey was marked by challenges, including Smart’s recovery from a heart injury and the pandemic. Despite these obstacles, the team persevered, demonstrating resilience and dedication. Smart underwent a triple bypass surgery, a secret she now shares, highlighting the unwavering support of the cast and crew.
Einbinder reflects, “Jean is the most durable woman in America… She is constantly getting hurt, and constantly pushing through it.”
A Lasting Legacy
As “Hacks” concludes, the creators reflect on the show’s improbable success. Statsky emphasizes, “Hopefully, in 10 years, 20 years, 100 years, the point of ‘Hacks’ is still about human connection. And how that can’t be replaced.”
“Hacks” has defied expectations, weaving comedy with raw emotion. It’s a show that will be remembered for its groundbreaking representation, its poignant storytelling, and the unforgettable performances of Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder.
