Hacks is an American dark comedy-drama series created by Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs, and Jen Statsky, which premiered on HBO Max on May 13, 2021, and concluded on May 28, 2026, after five seasons and 47 episodes. The plot centers on legendary Las Vegas stand-up comedian Deborah Vance (Jean Smart) and young, out-of-work comedy writer Ava Daniels (Hannah Einbinder), who form an unlikely partnership as Deborah fights to keep her casino residency by modernizing her act, while Ava tries to rebuild her career after an insensitive tweet. The series earned widespread critical acclaim, receiving five consecutive Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Comedy Series and winning that award for its third season, along with Writers Guild of America, Golden Globe, and Television Critics Association wins. Jean Smart's performance was a standout, winning her four consecutive Primetime Emmy Awards, three Screen Actors Guild Awards, four Critics' Choice Awards, two TCA Awards, and three Golden Globes. Hannah Einbinder received five consecutive Emmy nominations for Supporting Actress, winning in 2025, while other cast members like Paul W. Downs, Carl Clemons-Hopkins, and Megan Stalter also earned Emmy nominations. The show explores the evolving dynamics of their professional and personal lives within the contemporary comedy industry, blending sharp humor with poignant character growth.