Summary
- Hacks is a standout HBO Max show featuring a phenomenal ensemble cast, led by Emmy-winner Jean Smart as Las Vegas diva Deborah Vance.
- The series delves into the complexities of the comedy world, showcasing the struggles and successes of female comedians.
- With a mix of established and new comedic talents, Hacks delivers a captivating blend of humor and heartfelt storytelling.
The Hacks cast is an ensemble of some of the best comedy actors working today. Hacks is one of the standout shows on HBO Max, offering a dark comedy centered around Las Vegas diva and stand-up legend Deborah Vance, portrayed by Emmy-winner Jean Smart. The series benefits from a mix of newcomers and established comedic talents, adding authenticity to its portrayal of the comedy world. Hacks explores the lives of both successful and struggling female comedians, delving into the complexities of fame, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of success in the entertainment industry.
The 2021 HBO Max original series focuses on the dynamic between Deborah and Ava, a 25-year-old acerbic writer whose career is in jeopardy. Sent by their mutual agent as a last-ditch effort to revive her prospects, Ava's interactions with Deborah provide both dramatic and comedic moments. The series also features many compelling characters, including Deborah and Ava's family members, comedy business agents, and friends. As Deborah battles to maintain her comedy empire amidst pressure from Marty, the sleazy casino owner, Hacks delivers a captivating blend of humor and heartfelt storytelling, thanks to a phenomenal cast.
Hacks Season 3 Episodes 1 & 2 Recap: Deborah's New Hosting Gig & 10 Other Story Reveals
Hacks is back for season 3 with a double premiere. From Deborah's next career move to Ava's troubled relationship, it's full of huge story reveals.
Hacks Cast |
|
---|---|
Actor |
Character |
Jean Smart |
Deborah Vance |
Hannah Einbinder |
Ava |
Carl Clemmons-Hopkins |
Marcus |
Christopher McDonald |
Marty |
Rose Abdoo |
Josefina |
Kaitlin Olson |
DJ |
Paul W. Downs |
Jimmy |
Megan Stalter |
Kayla |
Mark Indelicato |
Damien |
Poppy Liu |
Kiki |
Johnny Sibilly |
Wilson |
Angela Elayne Gibbs |
Robin |
Lorenza Izzo |
Ruby |
Jane Adams |
Nina |
Jeff Ward |
George |
Nina Tarr |
Fabriziana |
Louis Herthum |
Dennis |
Jefferson Mays |
T.L. Gurley |
Danielle Schneider |
Rina |
Actor |
Character |
Lauren Weedman |
Madam Mayor Pezzimenti |
Linda Purl |
Kathy |
Chris Geere |
British TV Show Creator |
Kirby Howell-Baptiste |
British TV Show Creator |
Paul Felder |
Aidan |
Amanda Payton |
Jackie |
Jennifer Irwin |
Barfly |
Luenell |
Miss Loretta |
Kara Luiz |
Katie |
Brent Sexton |
Michael |
Anna Maria Horsford |
Francine |
Nelson Franklin |
Interviewer |
Vinessa Vidotto |
Ivy |
Madeline Zima |
Jules |
Olivia Boreham-Wing |
Young Deborah |
Jean Smart As Deborah Vance
Date Of Birth: September 13, 1951
An accomplished actress, Jean Smart has garnered widespread acclaim for her versatile performances across television and film. In 2021, she won the Emmy Award for Best Actress in a Comedy Series for her role in Hacks, further cementing her status as a powerhouse in the industry. Smart is also celebrated for her compelling portrayals in Watchmen as Agent Laurie Blake, Fargo, and Mare of Easttown, showcasing her range and depth as an actress. Her distinguished career spanning decades includes numerous awards and nominations, highlighting her significant contributions to the entertainment world.
Jean Smart also won a Prime Time Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series in 2000 for her role in Frasier.
Jean Smart's Most Notable Roles |
|
---|---|
Movies/TV Shows |
Character |
Hacks |
Deborah Vance |
Watchmen |
Agent Laurie Blake |
Fargo |
Floyd Gerhardt |
Mare of Easttown |
Helen Fahey |
Designing Women |
Charlene Frazier Stillfield |
Frasier |
Lana Gardner |
24 |
First Lady Martha Logan |
Legion |
Melanie Bird |
Garden State |
Mrs. Largeman |
Sweet Home Alabama |
Stella Kay Perry |
Deborah Vance, portrayed by Smart, is a legendary stand-up comedian and QVC entrepreneur, known as the Queen of Las Vegas. Her sharp wit and unapologetic attitude have made her a beloved icon in the comedy world. Despite her success, Deborah's career is at a crossroads, and she faces the challenge of reinventing herself to stay relevant. Her character is a complex mix of resilience, vulnerability, and ambition, navigating the highs and lows of show business while maintaining her position as a trailblazing female comedian in a male-dominated industry.
Hannah Einbinder As Ava
Date Of Birth: May 21, 1995
Hannah Einbinder, an American comedian, actor, and writer, has quickly risen to prominence in the entertainment industry. Recognized by Vulture Magazine as one of the up-and-coming comedians to watch in 2019, Einbinder has captivated audiences with her unique comedic style and sharp wit. In addition to her breakout role in Hacks, she has appeared in History of the World, Part II, and has a notable lineage in comedy, being the daughter of comedy writer Chad Einbinder and original Saturday Night Live cast member Lorraine Newman. Her fresh perspective and talent have made her a standout in the comedy scene.
Hannah Einbinder's stand-up special, Everything Must Go, will premiere at the 2024 Tribeca FIlm Festival.
Hannah Einbinder's Most Notable Roles |
|
---|---|
Movies/TV Shows |
Character |
Hacks |
Ava |
History of the World, Part II |
Amelia Earhart (1 episode) |
Strange Planet |
Manager (Voice role) |
Julia |
Gretchen Fletcher |
Ava, portrayed by Einbinder, is a 25-year-old writer whose career is derailed by an ill-timed joke on Twitter. Desperate for a second chance, she becomes a stand-up writer for Deborah Vance, a legendary comedian in Las Vegas. Ava's journey is marked by her struggle to rebuild her career and prove her worth in a challenging and often unforgiving industry. Her character is a blend of vulnerability, resilience, and sharp humor, navigating the complexities of working with a comedy icon while dealing with her own personal and professional setbacks.