Hacks season 4: Full list of cast and characters explored
Hacks season 4 is an American comedy-drama television series created by Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs, and Jen Statsky. The series is based on the professional relationship between a young comedy writer and a legendary stand-up comedian.
The show premiered on April 10, 2025, and is available to stream exclusively on Max. New episodes are released weekly on Thursdays at 9 pm ET.
The story follows Jean Smart as Deborah Vance and head writer Hannah Einbinder as Ava Daniels as they navigate the challenges of launching a new late-night talk show with their complex relationship at the forefront of the narrative.
The three seasons of Hacks have received critical acclaim. Hacks season 4 will showcase a deepening of the complex relationship between a comedian and writer, and it also promises a blend of sharp wit and emotional depth, exploring themes of ambition, betrayal, and the intricacies of mentorship.
The show is liked by critics and audiences alike. On the film and television rating website Rotten Tomatoes, Hacks season 4 has been certified by critics with a score of 100%.
Exploring the cast of Hacks season 4
Jean Smart as Deborah Vance
In Hacks season 4, Jean Smart portrays Deborah Vance, a legendary Las Vegas stand-up comedian now venturing into the world of late-night television. Deborah's journey this season is marked by her efforts to reinvent herself while grappling with personal and professional challenges.
Her relationship with head writer Ava Daniels becomes increasingly strained after Ava's betrayal, leading to a series of passive-aggressive confrontations and emotional revelations.
Jean had a remarkably successful Broadway debut in 1981 for the show Piaf. She is also known for 24 (2006-2007) and Garden State (2004).
Hannah Einbinder as Ava Daniels
Hannah Einbinder returns as Ava Daniels, the sharp-tongued, ambitious comedy writer who has ascended to the role of head writer on Deborah Vance’s new late-night show.
The season delves into the repercussions of betrayal, with Deborah retaliating through passive-aggressive pranks, intensifying the tension between them.
Einbinder portrays Ava's evolution with nuance, capturing her internal conflict and the complexities of ambition and loyalty.
The American comedian, actress, and writer was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in 2021 and 2022 and a Golden Globe Award in 2022. Einbinder is known for her roles in North Hollywood (2021), How to Be Broke (2018), and Julia (2023).
Carl Clemons-Hopkins as Marcus
Carl Clemons-Hopkins reprises his role as Marcus, the Chief Operating Officer of Deborah Vance's management company and her closest advisor. He is a dedicated and meticulous professional, often struggling to balance his demanding career with his personal life.
An English actor and producer born in Georgia, he is known for Star Trek: Lower Decks (2023), Candyman (2021), and Chicago P.D. (2014).
Megan Stalter as Kayla Schaefer
In Hacks season 4, Megan Stalter plays Kayla Schaefer, the exuberant and often oblivious assistant-turned-partner at the talent agency she co-runs with Jimmy LuSaque (Paul W. Downs).
Kayla's character continues to provide comedic relief with her chaotic energy and unfiltered enthusiasm.
Megan Stalter was born in the USA. She is an actress and writer known for The Megan Stalter Show (2019-2020) and The Great North (2022).
Paul W. Downs as Jimmy LuSaque
Paul W. Downs returns as Jimmy LuSaque Jr., the talent manager for both Deborah Vance and Ava Daniels.
Previously employed at a major agency, Jimmy has now ventured into establishing his own firm, navigating the complexities of representing two formidable clients with contrasting personalities in the show.
Paul W. Downs is an American actor, writer, and director, widely recognized for his contributions to the entertainment industry. He is known for his work in The Studio (2025), American Dad! (2023), and Harley Quinn (2023).
Rose Abdoo as Josefina
Rose Abdoo plays Josefina, a steadfast presence in Deborah’s life, overseeing the comedian’s lavish Las Vegas estate and daily affairs. In this show, their relationship evolves beyond employer and employee.
Starting off her on-screen career with television commercials and films, Rose became famous for starring in the Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life (2016), Bad Teacher (2011), and The Sex Lives of College Girls (2024).
Supporting cast of Hacks season 4
The fourth season of Hacks features a talented ensemble of actors in supporting roles, some of whom are listed as follows:
- Kaitlin Olson as Deborah
- Christopher McDonald as Marty
- Poppy Liu as Kiki
- Johnny Sibilly as Wilson
- Jefferson Mays as T.L. Gurley
- Jeff Ward as George
- Angela Elayne Gibbs as Robin
- Jane Adams as Nina Daniels
- Lorenza Izzo as Ruby
- Luenell as Miss Loretta
Hacks season 4 is available for digital streaming exclusively on Max.
