The highly anticipated fourth season of the Emmy-winning comedy series Hacks premiered on April 10, 2025, featuring two episodes available for streaming on Max. The show, which stars Jean Smart as the legendary Las Vegas comedian Deborah Vance and Hannah Einbinder as the aspiring comedy writer Ava Daniels, continues to explore their tumultuous relationship as they embark on a new late-night talk show.
In this season, tensions rise as Deborah and Ava work to launch their program, aptly titled Late Night with Deborah Vance. The storyline picks up after Deborah's triumphant career comeback at the age of 70, which was highlighted in the Season 3 finale. The new episodes promise to delve deeper into their dynamic, showcasing both the challenges and comedic moments that arise in their quest for success.
Fans were treated to a glimpse of the new season when Jean Smart appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live! the night before the premiere. During her appearance, Kimmel teased his own role in the show as a fictionalized version of himself, stating, "I just don’t want to see you end up like James Corden," referencing the former late-night host's controversial departure from the spotlight. Kimmel humorously added, "They found a whole bunch of horse porn on his computer. Happened right after he got a little too friendly with Jennifer Aniston. He had to move back to England. He’s sweeping chimneys now." This playful jab sets the tone for Kimmel's character, which Smart described as the "dark side of Jimmy Kimmel," indicating a more ruthless persona than viewers might expect.
The new season of Hacks will consist of ten episodes, with two episodes released weekly until the season finale on May 29, 2025. The show has garnered significant acclaim over its previous seasons, receiving a total of 48 Emmy nominations and winning nine, a testament to its quality and popularity among audiences and critics alike. Season 3 was particularly praised as the show's best yet, raising expectations for the upcoming episodes.
In addition to Smart and Einbinder, the cast includes a talented ensemble featuring Paul W. Downs, Megan Stalter, Carl Clemons-Hopkins, Mark Indelicato, Rose Abdoo, and Helen Hunt, among others. The series has successfully blended humor with poignant commentary on the entertainment industry, showcasing the struggles of women in comedy.
As viewers tune in to watch Hacks, they can expect a mix of sharp wit, heartfelt moments, and a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes challenges of launching a late-night show. The dynamics between Deborah and Ava continue to evolve, promising to keep audiences engaged as they navigate their professional and personal lives.
For those interested in catching up on previous seasons, all episodes from Seasons 1 to 3 are available for streaming on Max. The first season debuted in 2021, followed by eight episodes in Season 2 in 2022 and nine episodes in Season 3 in 2024. With its unique premise and strong character development, Hacks remains a standout in the realm of comedy series.
Overall, the fourth season of Hacks is set to deliver a compelling mix of humor and drama as Deborah and Ava strive to make their mark in the competitive landscape of late-night television. The combination of Smart's seasoned comedic talent and Einbinder's fresh perspective continues to resonate with audiences, making it a must-watch series this spring.
