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Hacks Star Confronts Andy Cohen Over On-Air Joke
13 Aug
Summary
- Showrunner Paul W. Downs was called out by Andy Cohen on live TV.
- The confrontation involved a joke made by Jean Smart's character.
- Downs humorously deflected blame onto improvisational actor Jean Smart.
During a recent episode of Watch What Happens Live, host Andy Cohen directly addressed Paul W. Downs, co-creator and showrunner of the recently concluded series Hacks. Cohen questioned Downs about a specific joke featured in the fifth and final season of the HBO Max comedy. The joke, delivered by Jean Smart's character Deborah Vance, referenced Cohen.
A clip was played showing Deborah Vance stating, "The problem with reality shows is you cannot control the narrative. I mean, that's why I've turned down Andy Cohen more than every twink on Fire Island." Meg Stalter, who plays Kayla, humorously interjected that she had advised against using Cohen's name.
Downs, who also stars as Jimmy in the series, responded with a laugh, attributing the line to Jean Smart's improvisational talent. He lightheartedly suggested that Smart's spontaneous delivery was beyond their ability to control. Hacks recently concluded its successful five-season run, having garnered a record-breaking 24 Emmy nominations for its final season, the most for any comedy series in a single year.
