Hannah Einbinder Wins Emmy for 'Hacks,' Ends Speech with Politically Charged Comments
In a surprise move, Hannah Einbinder took home the award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy at the 2025 Emmy ceremony. The HBO Max star's acceptance speech was met with applause and cheers from the audience as she closed with a shout-out to the Philadelphia Eagles and a pointed critique of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Israeli government.
Einbinder, who plays Ava Daniels in the comedy series 'Hacks,' beat out last year's winner Liza Colón-Zayas and fellow nominees Catherine OHara, Kathryn Hahn, Jenelle James, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and Jessica Williams to take home the award. Her win marked a milestone for the actress, who has been praised by critics for her portrayal of Ava.
In an interview with Variety, Einbinder's co-star Jean Smart said, "I'm so thrilled for Hannah. She's an incredibly talented young woman, and this award is well-deserved." Smart also acknowledged the significance of Einbinder's comments during her acceptance speech, stating, "Hannah's passion and commitment to social justice are inspiring, and I'm proud to be a part of a show that allows her to express herself in such a powerful way."
'Hacks' has been praised for its witty dialogue and nuanced portrayal of the comedy world. The series follows Deborah Vance (played by Smart), a legendary comedian who hires Ava Daniels to modernize her material. Einbinder's character has evolved throughout the series, from struggling writer to head writer of a late-night talk show.
The Emmy ceremony was notable for its lack of overtly political moments until Einbinder's speech. Her comments sparked a mix of reactions on social media, with some praising her courage and others criticizing her for using the platform to make a statement.
As the entertainment industry continues to grapple with issues of representation and social justice, Einbinder's win serves as a reminder of the impact that television can have on culture and society. With 'Hacks' Season 4 currently airing, fans are eagerly anticipating what's next for Ava Daniels and the team behind the show.
In related news, HBO Max has announced plans to renew 'Hacks' for an additional season. The network released a statement saying, "We're thrilled that Hannah Einbinder's talent and dedication have been recognized with this well-deserved Emmy win. We look forward to continuing to tell stories that spark conversation and inspire change."
*Reporting by Variety.*