WARNING: SPOILERS ahead for Hacks season 4, episodes 1 & 2.
The second episode of Hacks season 4 has alleviated my concerns regarding a potential season-long dilemma for this Emmy-winning comedy series. The dynamic between Deborah and Ava has taken on a fierce intensity following their manipulative maneuvers in the season 3 finale. This palpable tension seamlessly transitions into the premiere of season 4, as both characters exit a network meeting room with strikingly different professional and personal attitudes, setting the stage for an intriguing season.
Throughout the first three seasons, Deborah and Ava have experienced numerous highs and lows; however, they have never been quite as adversarial as they are at the beginning of season 4. I anticipate that Ava’s bold blackmailing tactic will serve as a pivotal lesson for Deborah about the complexities of relationships. Simultaneously, Ava is likely to face a reality check regarding the challenges of being the head writer for a late-night network show. With the opening episodes set in Los Angeles, my excitement grows for their anticipated return to Las Vegas in episode 3.
Las Vegas: An Indispensable Element of Hacks in Season 4
Las Vegas as a Character in the Series
The allure of Hacks is intrinsically linked to Las Vegas and to Deborah Vance’s persona. Even during Deborah’s stand-up tour in season 2, the vibrant, larger-than-life energy of Vegas was ever-present. If the storyline had remained anchored in Los Angeles or ventured elsewhere, the series would have risked losing a vital element of its charm and appeal. Las Vegas has evolved into a character within the show, and its return in season 4 is a welcome development, even for a writer’s retreat.
Observing Deborah adapt to a more intimate studio setting for her late-night show will be fascinating. Given her penchant for live applause and audience engagement, she’ll have to depend on Ava’s ongoing feedback—especially since late-night audiences often follow cues from signs and producers regarding when to laugh and applaud. It wouldn’t be surprising to see Deborah make a triumphant return to her Vegas roots to validate her material before a live audience later in the season, perhaps realizing that her childhood aspirations are not what she envisioned.
Season 4’s Return to Las Vegas Preserves Fan-Favorites
Episode 3 Promises Familiar Faces: Kiki, Marty & DJ
The decision to return to Vegas in season 4 not only enriches the narrative but also heightens the likelihood of reintroducing some beloved supporting characters. We can expect appearances from Poppy Liu’s Kiki and Christopher McDonald’s Marty, as well as potentially Kaitlin Olson’s DJ Vance, Deborah’s often overlooked daughter, who consistently infuses humor into the storyline. The vibrant Las Vegas backdrop may also pave the way for surprise guest appearances, particularly following the acclaim garnered by season 3. As Deborah reestablishes her influence in the city, we might witness her pushing Ava aside once more in Hacks season 4, episode 3.