At a glance
Expert’s Rating
Our Verdict
The latest season of Hacks explores themes of legacy and remembrance, cementing its place as a classic series. Its greatness is evident, despite any opinions on the story’s conclusion.
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In a rare turn in her long career, Deborah Vance finds herself unable to perform due to a non-compete clause preventing her from delivering her comedy publicly in the fifth season. The initial episode concludes with fans expressing their support through skywriting, “Free Deborah!” Nonetheless, Jean Smart, who has garnered four Emmys for her portrayal of Deborah over four seasons, continues to deliver her role effortlessly.
After an unusual finale with ambitious attempts that did not fully succeed, the fifth and final season of Hacks reestablishes its usual dynamics. This season, Vance and her enduring companion Ava Daniels (Hannah Einbinder) strive for a remarkable comeback, potentially earning Jean a fifth Emmy and Hannah her second. However, Lisa Kudrow’s The Comeback might pose competition.
Maintaining excellence for five years is almost unheard of in today’s unpredictable television world, making Hacks’ continued success noteworthy. While it has had its occasional missteps, season five still showcases the show’s consistent strength.
The show’s humor remains sharp, with lines like comparing an ex’s wedding to a colonoscopy—”a pain in the ass every five years but I’m passed out for most of it”—and jokes about Ava’s unusual strength, such as her high-fives being “like the Hulk,” highlighting the series’ wit that shines more on repeat viewings.
However, the series balances humor with emotional depth, understanding the close relationship between comedy and pain. While viewers will laugh at the witty exchanges, they may also be moved to tears, especially since this is the final season.
Smart and Einbinder anchor the show with their dynamic partnership, which has undergone significant growth. Their relationship has evolved in subtle ways that may go unnoticed week-to-week. Although their interactions have cycled between friendship and rivalry, season five intelligently minimizes these repetitive elements.
Conflict remains, as Ava and Deborah’s differences are unavoidable. Yet, this season emphasizes their mutual growth and respect, with disagreements fostering deeper connections. Their relationship now exudes warmth, resembling the couple many fans have envisioned.
They’ve gone from friends to enemies and back again more times than Deborah’s worn animal print
The personal development extends beyond their partnership. Early in the season, Deborah tells Ava, “You can’t write my memoir, you’re too obsessed with me,” highlighting Ava’s newfound confidence and success. Deborah, too, has transformed, thanks to Ava’s influence. This evolution feels authentic, a testament to the show’s writing and performances.
As the series concludes, the writers have balanced satisfying fan expectations while staying true to the story’s essence, particularly acknowledging the support of the show’s queer fanbase. Deborah’s decision to pursue an EGOT, Carl Clemons-Hopkins’ return as Marcus Vaughan, and a memorable scene with Jimmy (Paul W. Downs) all reflect this commitment.
For those invested in the potential romance between Ava and Deborah, one episode addresses these speculations directly, without succumbing to external pressures. The involvement of guest stars, who remain unnamed here, enhances this narrative moment.
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Hacks remains unmatched in its use of guest stars, blending camp and spectacle with absurdity seamlessly. The only misstep this season is a celebrity-driven episode that feels out of place. Paul W. Downs, a writer and co-creator, shared a cut idea that might have been more fitting: a stranded trip to LA due to weather, featuring a unique guest star.
The fact that unused ideas sound as compelling as aired content highlights Hacks’ dedication to its storyline, sacrificing potential humor if it doesn’t align with the narrative.
Some aspects of the final season may feel hurried, despite the writers having a planned conclusion. The climax might catch some off guard. Nevertheless, the season and series have been profoundly moving.
Deborah starts this season bound by a non-compete clause, yet neither she nor Jean Smart can be easily matched. Both reach their peak as Hacks concludes, leaving excitement for Jean’s future projects.
Should you watch Hacks season five?
Fans of Hacks will find much to appreciate in this season’s finale. For those not yet captivated, it’s time to catch up before being left behind, as honoring Deborah’s legacy is key, just as season five does.
Season 5 of Hacks is available from April 9 in the US and April 17 in the UK.
