'Hacks' Is Finally Over: Is the Latest Chapter a Fitting Ending to the Five-Season Story?

In 2021, as the effects of the pandemic were gradually waning, HBO Max premiered Hacks. The series surprised viewers with its ambition, warmth, and humor – it was fresh, cheeky, and simultaneously good-natured and caustic.

Now, Hacks ends on a high note – HBO ended the series when it needed to.

What Is 'Hacks' Season 5 About?

The fourth season ended with a major crisis in Deborah and Ava's relationship. After a trip to Singapore, where Vance had been drinking heavily and sparking rumors of her own death, she eventually reconciled with her friend.

The final season opens with a resurrected Deborah, shocking her grieving fans. After leaving the talk show, she was banned from public appearances by court order.

Vance is planning a triumphant return to the legendary Madison Square Garden stage. This performance should cement her status as one of the world's premier stand-up comedians.

Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder Remain the Heart of the Series in the Final Season

Once again, Hacks captivates with the on-screen chemistry of Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder, as well as the wit and relevance of the script. Jean Smart is a TV icon, and she has never lost an Emmy for her role in Hacks.

Einbinder, who made her career debut in the series, is on equal footing with Smart – the actress has a promising film career ahead of her.

The supporting cast is equally eclectic: Paul W. Downs and Megan Stalter steal every scene as managers. Stalter has established herself as the lead of her own comedy during the series' run – a feat that would not have been possible without her irrepressible performance in Hacks.

'Hacks' Season 5 Is a Fitting Farewell to One of the Decade's Best Comedies

The creators of Hacks never shied away from humanism – they consistently reminded us of the importance of empathy despite generational conflicts and championed creativity in a cynical world. In doing so, they left their mark on popular culture.

In a time of perpetual apocalypse, Hacks continued to offer hope, season after season, the kind of hope we now remember with particular fondness. Hacks is a rare instance of a series ending at its peak.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Hacks' Season 5?

• Hacks Season 5 has 100% from critics and 74% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

Where to Watch 'Hacks' Season 5?

Hacks Season 5 is available to stream on HBO Max.