‘Hacks’ Cast and Creators Say ‘Never Say Never’ to a Future Reboot

Don’t count out a “Hacks” reboot just yet. When asked about the possibility of coming back for one, Hannah Einbinder told Variety, “Of course I would. Any excuse to be with my people.”

Showrunners Paul W. Downs, Lucia Aniello and Jen Statsky, who have shepherded Deborah Vance and Ava Daniels from Vegas lounge act to late-night wreckage and back again, were characteristically coy when asked whether the story is truly finished. “We would never say never,” the trio said in unison. “We love these characters, we love this world, we love everybody in the ensemble. Right now we feel good about going out without overstaying our welcome — but you won’t have to twist my arm.”

The cast and creators of the HBO Max comedy gathered Wednesday night to toast the fifth and final season of the Emmy-winning series, which premieres April 9. Jean Smart, Einbinder, Megan Stalter, Mark Indelicato, Rose Abdoo, Robby Hoffman and the showrunning trio were among those who turned out for the occasion. If the red carpet was any indication, nobody is quite ready to say goodbye.

The creators also confirmed they have a new project in early development at HBO, though details remain under wraps.

Smart, who arrived in what she described as “a silver version of the gold suit” Deborah wore in Season 1, was equally reflective. “I can’t think of a relationship like Ava’s and Deborah’s that has been in a movie or on television,” she said. “I think the writers just seem to outdo themselves and raise the bar every single solitary season. This may be my favorite season.”

For Einbinder, who was just 24 when the show began, the emotions have been running high throughout the press tour, and Wednesday night was no exception. “I feel like I grew up and became a human being on this show,” she said. “It’s a whole Saturn Return and a half.” On finally getting to play Deborah and Ava’s bond at full warmth this season, Einbinder said, “It’s so fun, and we love sparring too, but it’s nice to be on the same team.”

The ensemble reflected on what they’d miss most about the show, and for Stalter, the answer came down to one thing. “Working with Paul and being that duo with him is what I’m definitely going to miss the most,” she said of Downs, who plays Jimmy.

Stalter had post-“Hacks” news to share. “I’m also getting a lot of plastic surgery,” she deadpanned. “Huge breasts and different legs. There’s also a secret project that’s going to be revealed along with my new ass and legs. Two different things happening in my life.” As for coming back if a reboot materialized, Stalter quipped, “Yes. For free — or $5 million that I can share with the cast.” 

Others credited the show with reviving their love of the craft entirely. “Paul, Lucia and Jen gave me an opportunity where there really wasn’t that much opportunity for me at the time,” Indelicato, who plays Deborah’s assistant Damien said. “They reinvigorated my career — and not just my hirability, but my love for what it is that we do.”

The 10-episode final season drops weekly through the series finale on May 28.

See more photos from the “Hacks” premiere below.