Jean Smart Adds Another Emmy to Her Legacy
The 77th Primetime Emmy Awards turned into a historic evening for veteran actress Jean Smart, who clinched her seventh Primetime Emmy Award. The celebrated actress took home the trophy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for her powerful performance in HBO Max’s acclaimed series Hacks.
This latest win continues Smart’s extraordinary streak and cements her as one of television’s most iconic performers.
Jean Smart Presented the Award by Jennifer Coolidge
One of the most memorable moments of the ceremony came when actress-comedian Jennifer Coolidge presented Smart with the honor. The heartfelt exchange between two leading comedy icons drew vibrant applause from the Los Angeles audience at the Peacock Theater.
About Hacks: A Dark Comedy Masterpiece
Hacks, created by Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs, and Jen Statsky, has consistently been a standout among modern comedy dramas. The show follows:
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Deborah Vance (Jean Smart): A legendary stand-up comedian reinventing her legacy.
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Ava Daniels (Hannah Einbinder): A witty young writer tasked with reshaping Deborah’s comedy in a modern world.
Together, they navigate the turbulent dynamics of mentorship, friendship, and survival in the ever-evolving comedy industry.
This blend of dark humor, introspective storytelling, and sharp satire has made Hacks one of the most celebrated TV shows of recent years.
Jean Smart’s Historic Achievements with Hacks
Jean Smart’s latest Emmy also marked her 14th career nomination and her fourth consecutive win for her role as Deborah Vance.
Her career with Hacks has earned her:
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4 Primetime Emmy Awards
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3 Screen Actors Guild Awards
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3 Critics’ Choice Awards
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2 Television Critics Association Awards
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2 Golden Globe Awards
The show itself secured 14 Emmy nominations this year, adding to its growing critical acclaim.
Other Notable Cast Nominations and Wins
The ensemble cast of Hacks has also been recognized on prestigious platforms:
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Hannah Einbinder – One Emmy win
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Paul W. Downs – One Emmy nomination
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Carl Clemons-Hopkins – One Emmy nomination
This further highlights how Hacks continues to be both an actor’s showcase and a storytelling triumph.
77th Emmy Awards Ceremony Highlights
The 2025 Emmy Awards ceremony, hosted by comedian Nate Bargatze, placed a spotlight on both creative artistry and technical brilliance across multiple genres. Streaming giants like Apple TV+, Netflix, and HBO Max dominated the awards, showcasing a shift in modern television consumption.
One notable highlight included a moving tribute performance by Reba McEntire, honoring the 40th anniversary of The Golden Girls.
The glamorous ceremony was broadcast live on CBS and Paramount+, with viewers in India tuning in via JioHotstar.
Jean Smart: A Living Legend in Television
With this seventh Emmy in her career, Jean Smart has solidified her legacy as an actress who not only adapts with the times but consistently delivers outstanding performances that captivate audiences worldwide.
Her portrayal of Deborah Vance in Hacks stands as a reminder of her remarkable versatility, combining dry wit, emotional depth, and sharp comedic timing.
As Hacks moves forward with future seasons, fans and critics alike eagerly anticipate the continuation of this beloved show that has already earned its place in television history.