Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder to Perform One-Night-Only Stage Show as ‘Hacks’ Characters

Hacks isn’t over after all — not just yet. The Hacks cast and creators are celebrating the final season’s record-breaking 24 Emmy nominations — the most nominated season of a comedy ever — with a one-night-only “in-world production” starring Jean Smart as Deborah Vance and Hannah Einbinder as Ava. More cast members will be “making surprise appearances,” per HBO Max. Hacks co-creator Paul W. Downs stars as Deborah’s and Hannah’s agent Jimmy on the series, so he’s probably a good bet to join in on the fun. Fellow HBO Max series The Pitt led all Emmy contenders with 25 nominations, but that’s a drama. Apple TV’s Widow’s Bay (comedy) and Pluribus (drama) were the big new shows. Deborah Vance & Friends & Enemies LIVE! will take place in front of a live audience at The Fonda Theatre in Los Angeles on Friday. Not that you’ll be able to see it: the show sold out in less than 24 hours. For those early enough (and lucky enough) to have already scored tickets, doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show will run from approximately 7:30-8:30 p.m. Come hungry: “Before the show, drinks and soft pretzels, pizza and popcorn will be served,” HBO Max told the press. Smart and Einbinder have “never appeared in-character outside the show,” the streamer’s PR team continued, adding: “to our knowledge, this is the first Phase II event of its kind.” “Phase II” here refers to the second push for Emmy votes, when the campaigning heats up ahead of final balloting. We’re in the thick of FYC (For Your Consideration) ads and events. Voting for the 2026 Emmy Awards concludes on Aug. 26; the Emmys will air live on NBC and stream on Peacock on Sept. 14 starting at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. Hacks wrapped up its five-season run in May. THR Newsletters Sign up for THR news straight to your inbox every day Subscribe Sign Up