One of my favorite comedies: Hacks is finally back! If the first two episodes of Season 4 are any indication, we’re in for a wildly entertaining ride.
The season premiere doesn’t waste a second getting back into the thorny, hilarious dynamic between comedy icon Deborah Vance and her brilliantly messy writer, Ava Daniels. The tension between them? Off the charts. The laughs? Sharper than ever.
We pick up right where Season 3 left off, with Ava now officially Deborah’s head writer, a position she secured through a particularly juicy bit of blackmail. And Deborah? Let’s just say she’s not taking it well. What unfolds is a riotous tug-of-war filled with petty sabotage, weaponized HR violations, and a whole lot of perfectly timed side-eye. It’s a toxic workplace comedy wrapped in a surprisingly tender exploration of mentorship, ambition, and pride. I absolutely love it.
What continues to set Hacks apart is how it balances razor-sharp humor with genuine emotional beats. Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder are electric together, whether they’re trading jabs or sharing unexpectedly vulnerable moments, their chemistry is undeniable. Watching their characters push each other’s buttons while secretly pushing each other to grow is what gives the show its soul.
The writing in these first episodes is top-tier. Every line feels intentional, every moment crackles with energy. There’s an incredible balance between laugh-out-loud comedy and deeper themes about identity, power, and the cost of success—especially for women in an industry that often punishes them for wanting more.
If you’re a longtime fan, you’ll be thrilled with how Season 4 starts. And if you’re new to the show? Now’s the time to dive in. With its perfect mix of heart and bite, Hacks proves once again that it’s one of the smartest, most compelling comedies on TV right now.
Bring on the rest of the season, if these two episodes are just the warm-up, we’re in for something truly special.
