If the 2024 Emmys are anything to go by, Hacks should be next on your to-watch list.
The comedy starring Jean Smart took home three awards, including the coveted Outstanding Comedy Series gong. The win came as a surprise – and has even been referred to as a ‘stunning upset’ – as Hacks triumphed over strong contender The Bear, who picked up the award last year and was predicted a consecutive win in 2024 (despite the argument that the show isn't technically a comedy).
Don't feel too sorry for The Bear though; the fast-paced restauranteering romp took home several trophies, including acting awards for Jeremy Allen White, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, and Liza Colón-Zayas.
Besides, it shouldn't come as too much of a shock, considering rave reviews for Hacks has from fans and critics alike. So for the uninitiated, what exactly is all the fuss about? Here's everything you need to know about the multi-Emmy Award-winning Hacks.
What is Hacks about?
Hacks tells the story of Deborah Vance (Jean Smart), a former stand-up comedian and talk show host who loses her residency at a Las Vegas casino. In an effort to refresh her material and make it more appealing to a younger audience, Deborah enlists the help of irksome young comedy writer, Ava (Hannah Einbinder), who is struggling to find work due to an insensitive tweet and has a reputation for being difficult. The pair immediately clash, but soon start to release they might be exactly what each other needs.
Which awards did Hacks win at the Emmys 2024?
As well as Best Original Comedy, Jean Smart won Best Actress in a Comedy Series, while co-writers Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs, and Jen Statsky won Best Writing for a Comedy Series.
During his acceptance speech, Downs said: “When we pitched this show about two women, one of who was over 60, we didn’t know if we would sell it and we have to thank everyone that helped make this show,” Downs explained. “About 20 percent of our population is over 60 and only three percent of those characters on television are 60, and I would like to see more of them because while I’m a great young supporting character, I would love to be a great old lead.”
Aniello added: “Comedy is so important to us but we think it can bridge divide when you laugh at someone, so please support comedy and support your local comedians."
Where can I watch Hacks in the UK?
Seasons 1 and 2 are available to watch on Amazon Prime Video in the UK. Season 3 premiered on Max in May 2024, so it looks as though we're still waiting for Prime Video to pick up the third season for UK release.
Meanwhile, Hacks season 4 is slated for a May 2025 release date on Max in the US.
