Is Jean Smart’s character in Hacks based on a real person? Explained

Since its premiere on May 13, 2021, the HBO Max comedy-drama series Hacks has undoubtedly become one of the most beloved comedies on television. Each season of the show has drawn in a large audience viewership and received praise from critics and viewers. The show also gained recognition during awards season, earning nominations at around 24 award ceremonies.

Hence, given its tremendous popularity, it's no surprise viewers have questions about various aspects of the show. For example, many speculate that Deborah Vance's character in Hacks is heavily influenced by the life of legendary and often controversial comedian Joan Rivers.

However, that is not the case. In a 2023 interview with the Press Trust of India, creator Jen Stasky explained that Jean Smart's character, Deborah Vance, was not modeled after any specific comedian. Instead, the role was inspired by several female comedy icons, including Phyllis Diller, Joan Rivers, Elaine May, and Lucille Ball.

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Jean Smart's character in Hacks is not based on a specific real-life person

Deborah Vance's character in Hacks isn't based on a specific comedian; instead, her character draws inspiration from multiple well-known comedians.

Jean Smart, who portrays the character, shares her love for stand-up comedy but admits she has never had the confidence to pursue it as a career. In a Variety article from May 13, 2021, Smart attributed her unwillingness to professionally pursue comedy to the occupation's immediate feedback format. The thought of it, Smart revealed, would make her feel uneasy.

In that same article, Smart highlighted several comedians who have influenced her and, in turn, shaped her character in Hacks. She specifically mentioned Phyllis Diller, saying,

"I fantasized about that when I was 12; I wanted to be Phyllis Diller."

Smart also referenced Joan Rivers, pointing out that her career trajectory closely resembles Deborah Vance in the series. She said:

"I really love Joan Rivers' stuff. People don't realize how incredible she was. They think of her more when she's on the red carpet and insulting people. And that's not the way I think about it."

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About the show

Hacks was created by Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs, and Jen Statsky. The series stars Jean Smart as Deborah Vance and Hannah Einbinder as Ava Daniels. While the show focuses on both characters individually, the dynamic between Deborah and Ava is often viewed as the core of Hacks.

Deborah is an established comedian known for her traditional comedic style, while Ava embodies a younger, more open-minded Gen Z perspective. This contrast frequently leads to clashes in their ideologies and comedic approaches. Despite these differences, both characters work to make their relationship succeed.

The official logline of Hacks provides a brief glimpse of the show's storyline. It mentions:

"Explore a dark mentorship that forms between a legendary Las Vegas comedian and an entitled, outcast 25-year-old in the world of stand-up comedy."

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Besides Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder, others who are part of the show's main cast include: Carl Clemons-Hopkins, Rose Abdoo, Paul W. Downs, Megan Stalter, and Mark Indelicato. They play the roles of Marcus, Josefina, Jimmy LuSaque Jr., Kayla Schaefer, and Damien, respectively.