Kaitlin Olson’s Hit 5-Part HBO Max Series Returns To Record-Setting Rotten Tomatoes Score

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The popular HBO Max show starring Kaitlin Olson is back and receiving rave reviews, earning a top score on Rotten Tomatoes.

The actress is widely recognized for her comedic work, particularly her long-running role on FX’s It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, which began in 2005, and as the star of ABC’s High Potential, starting in 2024. She’s also appeared in popular TV shows like HBO’s Curb Your Enthusiasm (2000-2020) and Hacks (since 2021), with her performance on Hacks earning her two Emmy nominations for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series in 2022 and 2024.

Hacks Season 5 Returns To Record-Setting Rotten Tomatoes Score

The highly-anticipated fifth and final season of the hit show Hacks is now available, and it’s already breaking records on Rotten Tomatoes. Created by Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs, and Jen Statsky, the series centers on the complicated relationship between veteran comedian Deborah Vance (played by Jean Smart) and her young writer, Ava Daniels (Hannah Einbinder), as they navigate the challenges of the modern comedy scene and their personal lives.

I’m really enjoying Hacks, and the cast is fantastic! Kaitlin Olson shows up as Deborah’s daughter, DJ, which is always a highlight. But honestly, the whole ensemble is incredible – you’ve got Carl Clemons-Hopkins, Megan Stalter, Paul W. Downs, Rose Abdoo, Mark Indelicato, Christopher McDonald, Poppy Liu, Johnny Sibilly, Angela E. Gibbs, Jane Adams, Lorenza Izzo, Luenell, Joe Mande, Lauren Weedman, Helen Hunt, Dan Bucatinsky, Michaela Watkins, and Robby Hoffman all bringing their A-game. It’s a seriously talented group!

Ahead of its April 9th release, the fifth season of Hacks currently has a 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. This is the lowest score the show has ever received from critics, though it’s based on only 10 reviews so far. The score may change as more reviews come in. Here’s a look at how this season compares to previous seasons.

RT Critics Score RT Audience Score
Season 1 100% 89%
Season 2 100% 89%
Season 3 98% 89%
Season 4 98% 71%
Season 5 90% –
Series average 97% 85%

What Critics Are Saying About Hacks Season 5

While season 5 of Hacks received the lowest critic scores in the show’s history, this isn’t necessarily a sign of a poor season. It actually highlights how exceptionally well-regarded the first four seasons were. Critics generally still found the show to be funny, bold, and very enjoyable, even acknowledging it remained strong despite being less cutting-edge than before.

Look, season five is a bit of a shift. Some folks feel it loses some of the show’s original grit, becoming a little too polished and, dare I say, sweet. But honestly, most critics, myself included, think it’s a really satisfying conclusion. It’s still hilarious, and what I especially appreciated was that the writers didn’t tie everything up neatly. They left you wondering what would happen next for these characters, while still giving us plenty of the fantastic chemistry and comedy we’ve come to expect.

As a big fan, I can say the final season of Hacks really stuck the landing. The writing and acting were consistently amazing – it’s no surprise the show has racked up so many Emmys! Overall, season 5 felt like a perfect way to wrap things up, and it reminded me why I loved this show so much in the first place.

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2026-04-08 00:42