A New Chapter for Deborah and Ava
The fourth season of Hacks picks up where the dramatic season three finale left off, hacks with Deborah Vance (Jean Smart) achieving her lifelong dream of hosting a late-night talk show. However, tensions are higher than ever between her and Ava Daniels (Hannah Einbinder), the head writer who secured her position through a bold blackmail move. This season, the duo navigates the challenges of launching their groundbreaking show while grappling with personal and professional conflicts. Their dynamic—equal parts toxic and inspiring—remains the heart of the series, delivering laugh-out-loud moments and emotional depth.
The season opens with two episodes, “Big, Brave Girl” and “Cover Girls,” setting the stage for a rollercoaster of comedy and drama. As Deborah and Ava work to make their late-night show a success, they face network pressures, creative differences, and their own complicated history. The premiere episodes highlight their ability to bring out both the best and worst in each other, a theme that has defined Hacks since its debut in 2021.
A Star-Studded Cast and Surprise Cameos
Hacks season four boasts an impressive ensemble cast, led by the incomparable Jean Smart, whose portrayal of Deborah Vance has earned her three Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress. Hannah Einbinder shines as Ava, bringing a perfect mix of sarcasm, vulnerability, and physical comedy to the role. The supporting cast includes familiar faces like Paul W. Downs as manager Jimmy LuSaque Jr., Megan Stalter as the delightfully chaotic Kayla, Carl Clemons-Hopkins as Marcus, and Kaitlin Olson as Deborah’s estranged daughter, DJ. New additions, such as Julianne Nicholson as a viral “Dance Mom” and guest stars like Helen Hunt and Tony Goldwyn, add fresh energy to the show.
Max has teased “exciting surprise cameos” this season, with names like Carol Burnett, Kristen Bell, and Jimmy Kimmel appearing as themselves. These guest stars bring an extra layer of star power and humor, reflecting the show’s growing cultural impact. The cameos also underscore Hacks’ ability to poke fun at the entertainment industry while staying grounded in authentic character moments.
A Unique Release Schedule
Unlike traditional weekly releases, Hacks season four follows a distinctive schedule to ensure Emmy eligibility by May 31, 2025. The season kicked off with two episodes on April 10, followed by one episode each week on April 17, April 24, May 1, and May 8. Episodes seven and eight drop together on May 15, with episode nine airing on May 22 and the finale on May 29. Each episode runs approximately 30 minutes, making it an easy binge for viewers.
To watch, you’ll need a Max subscription, starting at $9.99 per month for the ad-supported plan or $16.99 for ad-free streaming. The premium tier, at $20.99, offers 4K Ultra HD and the ability to stream on four devices. For those new to Max, bundles with Hulu and Disney+ are available, and some platforms like Amazon Prime or DoorDash offer free trial promotions.
Critical Acclaim and Cultural Impact
Hacks has been a critical darling since its debut, and season four is no exception. It holds a 97% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its sharp writing and the dynamic between Smart and Einbinder. The Guardian called it “a triumph of dazzling wit” and a masterclass in comedy, while Slate noted that the show remains “one of the most joke-dense” on television. The series has won multiple Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series, and a Golden Globe for Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy.
The show’s exploration of generational differences, female ambition, and the entertainment industry resonates with audiences across demographics. Reviewers have compared it to The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel for its blend of humor and heart, with Jean Smart’s performance often likened to comedy legends like Joan Rivers. Fans on social media have echoed this enthusiasm, with one viewer on X calling it “the funniest new comedy series to come around” and praising the chemistry between Smart and Einbinder.
Why Season Four Stands Out
Season four takes Hacks to new heights by shifting its focus to Los Angeles, where Deborah and Ava navigate the cutthroat world of network television. The show delves deeper into the “intersection of art and commerce,” exploring the behind-the-scenes chaos of producing a late-night show. From dealing with terrified writers to managing PR disasters, the season captures the high stakes and absurdity of Hollywood with razor-sharp precision.
The writing, led by showrunners Downs, Aniello, and Statsky, balances biting satire with poignant character development. Ava’s journey, in particular, has struck a chord with viewers, as she evolves from an entitled Gen-Z writer to a complex, flawed, and relatable character. Meanwhile, Deborah’s larger-than-life persona hides vulnerabilities that make her both infuriating and endearing. Their “frenemy” dynamic—described by one critic as “500% more shrieking” than other TV rivalries—keeps audiences hooked.
What Fans Are Saying
The buzz around Hacks season four has been electric, with fans taking to X to share their excitement. Posts from @StreamOnMax and @FilmUpdates celebrated the premiere, noting its perfect 100% Rotten Tomatoes score early in the season. Viewers have praised the show’s ability to connect across generations, with one fan writing, “It’s snarky, sassy, razor-sharp but also deeply endearing and heart-warming.” Others have highlighted the standout performances of supporting characters like Kayla, whose evolution from a cartoonish assistant to a savvy agent has been a fan favorite.
However, not all reactions have been glowing. Some fans expressed disappointment, feeling that season four’s plotlines occasionally veer into “ridiculous” territory or that the constant push-and-pull between Deborah and Ava feels repetitive. Despite these critiques, the consensus is that Hacks remains a standout comedy, with Jean Smart’s comedic timing and Hannah Einbinder’s growth as an actress earning widespread praise.
How to Catch Up
If you’re new to Hacks or need a refresher, seasons one through three are available to stream on Max. Season one (10 episodes) introduces Deborah and Ava’s unlikely partnership, while season two (eight episodes) explores their legal battles and reinvention. Season three (nine episodes) sets the stage for the current drama, culminating in Ava’s bold move to secure her role as head writer. With a total runtime of about 30 minutes per episode, it’s easy to catch up before diving into season four.
Why You Should Watch
Hacks season four is a must-watch for anyone who loves smart, character-driven comedy. Its blend of dark humor, industry satire, and emotional depth makes it one of the best shows on television. Whether you’re drawn to Jean Smart’s Emmy-worthy performance, the sharp writing, or the chaotic energy of Deborah and Ava’s relationship, this season delivers on all fronts. As the show continues to push boundaries and explore new facets of its characters, it solidifies its place as a cultural touchstone.
So, grab your Max subscription, settle in, and get ready to laugh, cringe, and cheer for Hacks season four. With 10 episodes packed with wit, drama, and surprises, it’s a comedic gem you won’t want to miss.
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