Smart will once again play legendary comedian Deborah Vance, while Einbinder will return as her writer and longtime creative partner, Ava Daniels.
According to Variety, the “Hacks” cast and creators have organized a one-night-only production called “Deborah Vance & Friends & Enemies Live!” as Emmy Phase 2 voting gets underway. The event will take place at Hollywood’s Fonda Theatre on Friday, with Smart, Einbinder and additional cast members performing as their characters. Tickets for the event have already sold out.
Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder Are Returning as Deborah and Ava
The live production marks a first for “Hacks” and its two central stars. Smart and Einbinder have not previously appeared publicly in character as Deborah and Ava outside of the HBO comedy, making the stage event a rare extension of the show’s fictional world. Rather than simply appearing as themselves, the performers will participate in a production built around the characters audiences have followed throughout the series.
The hit follows Deborah, an established Las Vegas stand-up comedian attempting to keep her career relevant, and Ava, a younger comedy writer brought in to help reinvent her material. Their professional relationship gradually develops into a complicated personal bond as both women push each other through changes in their careers and lives.
The event also arrives shortly after the conclusion of “Hacks.” The show premiered in 2021 and ended with its fifth season in May, completing its run after five installments and 47 episodes.
“Hacks” received five consecutive Emmy nominations for Outstanding Comedy Series and won the category for its third part. Smart has earned four consecutive Emmy wins for her performance as Deborah, while Einbinder received five consecutive nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series and won in 2025.
“Deborah Vance & Friends & Enemies Live!” will open its doors at 6:30 p.m., with the approximately one-hour program scheduled to begin around 7:30 p.m.