'Hacks' finale explained: Deborah and Ava’s emotional twist ending leaves fans stunned

Hacks officially came to an end after five acclaimed seasons, with the HBO Max comedy delivering an emotional and surprising finale centred on Deborah Vance and Ava Daniels’ complicated relationship.

The series finale followed Deborah, played by Jean Smart, after she revealed that her cancer had spread and that she planned to travel to Switzerland for assisted suicide. Ava, portrayed by Hannah Einbinder, initially struggled with the devastating news but ultimately agreed to accompany her mentor and closest creative partner to Europe.

Much of the finale unfolded in Paris, where Deborah and Ava reflected on their years together while trying to process the possibility of saying goodbye. The episode balanced heartbreak with the show’s trademark humour, including several scenes of the pair continuing to workshop comedy material even while confronting mortality.

However, the episode’s biggest twist came at the train station in the final moments. Just before boarding for Switzerland, Deborah changed her mind after realising she still had more material to write and perform. Instead of ending her life, she opened her notebook and began crafting new jokes inspired by her diagnosis and the absurdity of her situation.

The creators told Variety that the ending was designed to reflect Deborah’s lifelong inability to stop performing and creating comedy, even in the face of death. They explained that the show has always fundamentally been about two women who push each other creatively and emotionally, regardless of how destructive or painful the relationship becomes at times.

The finale also wrapped up several supporting storylines. Jimmy and Kayla ultimately took control of their talent agency after exposing corruption tied to Kayla’s father, while Deborah’s lavish Las Vegas casino venture, The Diva, officially opened its doors.

Critics largely praised the finale for resisting a tragic ending while still confronting themes of ageing, illness, legacy and ambition. Many reviews highlighted the final scene between Deborah and Ava as a fitting conclusion to one of television’s most layered female relationships.

The Emmy-winning comedy first premiered in 2021 and became one of HBO Max’s defining original series, earning widespread acclaim for its writing and performances across its five-season run.