Hacks Season 5 Renewal: Jean Smart Returns for More Emmy-Winning Comedy

Get ready to laugh a little longer—Hacks has officially been renewed for Season 5, and fans couldn’t be more thrilled. The critically acclaimed HBO Max (now simply Max) comedy series, known for its sharp wit and unforgettable performances, especially from Emmy-winning star Jean Smart, is extending its reign with a fifth installment. With Season 4 still fresh in viewers’ minds, this early renewal speaks volumes about the show’s ongoing success and cultural relevance.

Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, this article covers everything you need to know about Hacks Season 5—from what to expect and why it was renewed to cast updates and potential plot developments.

Since its debut in 2021, Hacks has captured audiences with its razor-sharp dialogue, emotionally rich storytelling, and brilliant chemistry between Jean Smart’s Deborah Vance and Hannah Einbinder’s Ava Daniels. The show has earned critical acclaim, multiple Emmy Awards, and a devoted fanbase. The announcement that Hacks has been renewed for Season 5—before Season 4 even wrapped up—is a testament to its continued momentum.

While specific plot details for Hacks Season 5 remain under wraps, the creators—Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs, and Jen Statsky—have hinted that they always envisioned a five-season arc. That means we’re likely heading toward a satisfying, thoughtfully crafted conclusion.

Here are some possible directions Season 5 might take:

• The evolution of Deborah’s late-night talk show: Season 4 introduced Deborah’s new venture into the late-night world, providing fertile ground for drama and humor.

• Ava’s professional and personal growth: Ava’s journey continues to balance ambition, ethics, and identity in the ever-complicated entertainment industry.

• New and returning characters: Expect familiar faces along with fresh talent, bringing new dynamics and challenges into the mix.

Although the full cast list hasn’t been officially confirmed, it's highly likely that the main duo—Jean Smart as Deborah Vance and Hannah Einbinder as Ava Daniels—will return. Their complex, evolving relationship is the heart of the show.

Other likely returning cast members include:

• Paul W. Downs as Jimmy

• Megan Stalter as Kayla

• Carl Clemons-Hopkins as Marcus

Given the show's history of excellent guest stars and cameos, fans can also expect some surprises. Streaming platforms typically wait until a season concludes to evaluate renewal potential. So why did Max jump the gun?

Here are a few key reasons:

• Strong viewership numbers and audience engagement

• Ongoing awards buzz and critical acclaim

• The creative team’s clear, cohesive vision for the series arc

This move also aligns with Max’s strategy of banking on established, high-quality content in an increasingly competitive streaming landscape.

There’s no official release date yet, but if the pattern holds, we can expect Season 5 to debut sometime in mid-to-late 2026. Production schedules, cast availability, and the writers' room timeline will all factor into the premiere date.

The early renewal of Hacks Season 5 is more than just good news—it’s a sign that one of TV’s smartest comedies still has plenty to say. With unforgettable characters, biting humor, and heartfelt moments, Hacks continues to push boundaries and redefine modern comedy.

Whether you’re catching up on past seasons or eagerly awaiting the next chapter, now’s the perfect time to dive into (or revisit) this award-winning series.

Are you excited for Hacks Season 5? Let us know your favorite moment from the show so far—and stay tuned for updates as more details emerge!