Fans of the critically acclaimed comedy series Hacks have reason to celebrate as Max has officially renewed the show for a fifth season. The announcement comes just ahead of the season four finale, which is scheduled to air on Thursday, May 29. The renewal highlights the series’ ongoing popularity and relevance in the comedy genre, continuing its successful run on the platform.
Critically Acclaimed Cast and Creators Drive Hacks’ Success and Industry-Wide Enthusiasm
Hacks stars Jean Smart as the sharp-witted comedian Deborah Vance, alongside Hannah Einbinder, Paul W. Downs, Megan Stalter, and others. The show was created by Paul W. Downs, Lucia Aniello, and Jen Statsky. It has been a major awards contender, garnering 48 Emmy nominations and winning the Emmy for Outstanding Comedy Series in its third season. This critical success underscores the show’s impact and its standing as a modern television favorite.
Hacks Renewed for Season 5 as Emmy-Winning Comedy Keeps Momentum and Celebrity Buzz AliveThe renewal was met with enthusiastic support from executives at Max and Universal Television. Sarah Aubrey, Head of Max Original Programming, praised the show’s “singularly talented cast and crew,” while Erin Underhill, President of Universal Television, noted how the series “only gets bolder, sharper, and more iconic with time.” Their comments reflect the strong partnership and creative momentum behind the scenes.
Season Four Shines with Guest Stars, Praise—and a Missed Cameo from Cher
Season four, which premiered in April, followed the characters Deborah and Ava as they embarked on launching a late-night show. This season featured an expanded ensemble with appearances from notable actors such as Helen Hunt, Tony Goldwyn, and Kaitlin Olson. The season continued to receive high praise, with Rolling Stone calling Hacks one of the “most beloved comedies in recent years” and “one of the funniest shows on TV.”
In a light-hearted anecdote, co-creator Paul W. Downs shared that the legendary Cher had declined multiple requests to appear on the show. Speaking on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Downs revealed that while her manager once floated the idea of including Cher’s ice cream brand, Cherlato, in the show, she ultimately passed on the cameo. Downs humorously recalled receiving a blunt quote from her manager: “I don’t want to do it,” illustrating the occasional challenges of celebrity cameos, even for a hit show like Hacks.