Sun Apr 06 02:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Hacks Season 4: Blackmail, Breakdowns, and a Possible Spinoff?

**Los Angeles, CA** – The critically acclaimed HBO Max comedy series *Hacks* is set to return for its fourth season on April 10th, promising a dramatic escalation in the already turbulent relationship between legendary comedian Deborah Vance (Jean Smart) and her young writer Ava Daniels (Hannah Einbinder).

Season 4 picks up immediately after the shocking Season 3 finale, where Deborah, having achieved her dream of hosting a late-night show, betrayed Ava by choosing a more experienced male head writer. Ava, not one to be easily dismissed, retaliates with a shocking blackmail threat: expose Deborah’s affair with CEO Bob Lipka (Tony Goldwyn) unless she gets the job. This sets the stage for a season of intense conflict, described by the cast and creators as a “toxic” three-way relationship involving Deborah, Ava, and the audience.

“This takes it to a whole new level,” Smart says of the Deborah-Ava dynamic, comparing their relationship to a volatile marriage teetering on the brink of divorce. Einbinder adds a darkly comedic perspective, calling it a “toxic three-way” relationship. Showrunners Paul W. Downs, Jen Statsky, and Lucia Aniello revealed that the blackmail plot wasn’t conceived until the writing of Season 3, providing a juicy conflict to propel the season.

The season will feature new guest stars Julianne Nicholson and Michaela Watkins and will showcase the show’s deep connection to Los Angeles, highlighting the city’s entertainment industry and the impact of recent devastating fires on the production. The showrunners even plan to feature the crew in the show this season.

While the creators have historically planned for five seasons, they admit to experiencing mixed feelings about the show’s eventual end. The possibility of a spin-off focusing on the supporting characters Kayla (Megan Stalter) and Jimmy (Paul W. Downs) is also being explored, with the cast and crew expressing enthusiasm for the idea. Einbinder envisions a future where Ava develops a life beyond Deborah, suggesting potential storylines for future seasons, hinting at the emotional depth the show explores beyond its comedic surface. The showrunners have teased several possibilities for future seasons, while simultaneously acknowledging the possibility that season 5 may be their final season.

With nine Emmys already under its belt, including three for Smart as Best Lead Actress, *Hacks* Season 4 is poised to deliver another captivating and emotionally resonant season. The first two episodes will premiere on Max on April 10th.

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