Hacks: The Award-Winning Comedy You Need to Watch Now

Hacks Takes Emmy Season by Storm

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 have from fans and critics alike.

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 realize they might be exactly what each other needs.

Awards Won by Hacks 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.”