Uncover the Feuding Dynamic Duo: ‘Hacks’ Season 4 Cast Guide

Hacks returns for its fourth season, promising even more side-splitting moments! The power struggle between Deborah and Ava is expected to escalate to unprecedented levels. Fans have already witnessed their feud, unexpected betrayals, and the introduction of new characters in the first two episodes, which premiered on Max on April 10. With the political machinations and petty maneuverings prevalent in Hacks this season, it’s crucial to stay updated on who’s who and the dynamics among them. Here’s your handy guide to all the characters in Hacks Season 4, along with the actors portraying them.

Returning Characters

Jean Smart as Deborah Vance

The role of Deborah Vance in Hacks wouldn’t be as impactful without the legendary Jean Smart portraying her. Smart, with six Emmys under her belt, has triumphed in her performance on Hacks, earning three Golden Globes and three Stage Actors Guild Awards for it. After a long and illustrious career in television, theater, and comedy, her stunning turn in Hacks has also gained her a Grammy Award nomination.

Without a doubt, Deborah (as well as the actress playing her) is the soul of the show Hacks. In Season 4, Deborah embarks on a fresh creative journey: hosting late-night television and becoming the first woman ever to do so. This season promises laughter, chaos, and relentless determination as we witness Deborah at her wittiest, most unpredictable, and tenacious state. Her complex relationships with Ava, Jimmy, Marcus, and her once loyal followers may start to deteriorate.

Hannah Einbender as Ava Daniels

Absolutely, we can expect Hannah Einbender to reprise her role as Ava Daniels, the complex counterpart to our troubled duo. A young, bisexual writer who found herself working for Deborah following a Twitter scandal, Ava serves as a witty, accident-prone, and occasionally misguided reflection of Deborah’s insecurities as a female comedian, also functioning as her personal sparring partner, often.

As a movie critic, I found myself at odds with the escalating conflict between Ava and Deborah in Season 4 of their Late Night Show. In a power play at the end of Season 3, Ava manipulated Deborah into giving her the head writer position, igniting an already tumultuous relationship into an outright war in the premiere episodes.

Notably, Jean Smart’s performance as Ava Daniels in Hacks has garnered impressive recognition, with three Emmy nominations, three Critics’ Choice Awards, and three Golden Globe nods to her name. The talent on display is undeniable, making the show a must-watch for any discerning viewer.

Carl Clemons-Hopkins as Marcus

Carl Clemons-Hopkins found himself at a crossroads, preparing to change career paths and pursue business education, when he landed the role of Marcus in the TV show “Hacks”. Notably, they also played a role in the Broadway hit “Hamilton”. In this series, Marcus is Deborah’s advisor, COO, and trusted confidant.

In the fourth season, Marcus plays a crucial role in both Deborah’s life and career, but he intends to sell her domain and relinquish his position. This news deeply saddens Deborah, widening the gap between her and her closest loved ones. It’s clear that Marcus will be pivotal in this season’s storyline as it unfolds, stirring up conflict.

Paul W. Downs as Jimmy

Any fan of the TV series “Hacks” would likely recognize Paul W. Downs as the actor portraying Jimmy LaSaque, Deborah and Ava’s manager. He might also be familiar with Downs from his previous role as Trey, the valuable personal trainer on “Broad City.” However, many may not be aware that Downs is not only an actor but also a creator and executive producer of the show, working alongside his wife, Lucia Aniello, whom he met during improv. As for Jimmy LaSaque, he faces a challenging situation in Season 4, as both of his major clients are involved in a risky late-night project and a feud. Additionally, he has concerns about Kayla…

Meg Stalter as Kayla

Initially becoming well-known through online platforms and Chicago’s comedy circuit, Meg Stalter made a memorable debut in Hacks as the character Kayla, transitioning from Jimmy’s assistant to business partner. The hilarious Meg Stalter has already been cast as the lead in Lena Dunham’s upcoming TV series, Too Much. Kayla plays a significant role in the unique comedic stew of Hacks, consistently stirring up chaos wherever she goes. This season, Kayla is determined to demonstrate her competence and make Jimmy proud by delivering top-notch work.

And Many More!

There are many other familiar faces that fans can expect to see:

Rose Abdoo as Deborah’s estate manager, Josefina
Mark Indelicato as Deborah’s personal assistant, Damien
Kaitlin Olson as Deborah’s daughter, DJ
Helen Hunt as executive Winnie Landell
Dan Bucatinsky as executive Rob
Tony Goldwyn as Deborah’s lover, Bob Lipka
Polly Draper as psychic, Diana.

New Characters and Guest Stars

Over the course of its seasons, Hacks has welcomed a wealth of comedic and TV greats such as Patton Oswalt, Christopher Lloyd, and Margaret Cho. Let’s take a look at who else will be joining their esteemed company in Season 4.

Carol Burnett as Herself

It’s challenging to identify a more significant figure in comedy, particularly a female one, than Carol Burnett. Given this, it’s fitting that Hacks, a series focusing on the distinctive challenges women encounter in comedy, would highlight the trailblazer who, in numerous aspects, shattered the glass ceiling.

As reported by Entertainment Weekly in an exclusive interview, Burnett is set to appear as herself in the fourth episode of this season. She will share some friendly advice with Deborah, both being comedians, in a surprising moment of stage fright for the fictional character. In regards to collaborating with Burnett once more (having previously portrayed mother and daughter on an episode of “Hot in Cleveland”), Smart expressed, “There’s no one quite like her when it comes to comedy, or simply being an exceptionally cool individual.

Jimmy Kimmel as Himself

Comedian Jimmy Kimmel, well-known in the industry, has officially joined Hacks for Season 4, adding another significant piece to the season’s focus on Late Night Comedy. Interestingly, Kimmel will be portraying himself in the series, but their dynamic in the fifth episode is said to be less cordial. Reports suggest that Deborah might attempt to steal one of Kimmel’s guests for her own late-night show, leading to a confrontation between the two.

Robby Hoffman as Randi

As a passionate movie enthusiast, I must admit that I’ve been genuinely thrilled about Robby Hoffman joining the cast of Hacks. This writer, comedian, and emblematic figure within the LGBTQ+ community has made a significant impact through shows like Workin’ Moms and being married to the groundbreaking first openly lesbian Bachelorette, Gabby Windey. In Season 4 of Hacks, she’s already brought her unique brand of humor to life as Kayla, and Jimmy’s new assistant, Randi. According to IMDb, we can anticipate seeing more of Hoffman throughout the remainder of this season.

Jake Shane as Social Media Girlie and Others

Jake Shane, a popular figure on social media and podcasts with around 5 million followers in total, is set to portray “Social Media Girlie” in several episodes of ‘Hacks’ Season 4. Given the increasing complexity surrounding public personas and the ever-changing landscape of the digital world, it will be intriguing to see how this character could potentially stir up a storm for Deborah and her team.

Actors such as Julianne Nicholson (“I, Tonya”), Bresha Webb (“Run the World”), Eric Balfour (“Six Feet Under”), and Michaela Watkins (“Abbott Elementary”) are anticipated to join this season’s lineup in either recurring or guest appearances. With such a stellar cast of veterans, it promises to be an exciting season!

Hacks is now streaming on Max.

2025-04-14 03:05