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At a recent gathering of SAG-AFTRA members, actress Hannah Einbinder discussed the striking parallels between a storyline from her acclaimed show ‘Hacks’ and actual events surrounding Stephen Colbert’s late-night program. Einbinder, who made her national television debut on Colbert’s show, has since returned as a guest multiple times and recently won an Emmy Award for her performance in the series.
The fourth season of ‘Hacks’ serves as a tribute to late-night television, featuring characters Deborah Vance, played by Jean Smart, and her head writer Ava, portrayed by Einbinder. The narrative takes a dark turn when Deborah is pressured to let go of Ava, leading her to confront the network’s restrictions in a shocking moment that results in the cancellation of her show. This storyline echoes recent news of CBS not renewing Colbert’s ‘The Late Show’, sparking discussions about censorship in comedy.
The evidence
Two months after the Colbert announcement, another late-night host, Jimmy Kimmel, faced a suspension after making remarks about a tragic event. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) chair threatened to revoke broadcast licenses, forcing Kimmel’s show into an abrupt hiatus. Although Kimmel returned shortly after due to public backlash, the incident raised alarm about the increasing pressure on comedians and journalists alike.
Einbinder’s perspective on censorship
Reflecting on these events, Einbinder expressed her surprise at the unfolding situation, stating, “Seeing this happen, especially within the realm of late-night and censorship, felt surreal.” She elaborated that while it was unsettling, it wasn’t entirely unexpected given the recurring trends of censorship affecting various fields, including academia and journalism. Einbinder noted, “With so many individuals facing repercussions for their freedom of speech, it was disheartening but not shocking to witness this happen in our industry.”
Einbinder commended the creators of ‘Hacks’—Paul W. Downs, Lucia Aniello, and Jen Statsky—for their ability to weave real-world issues into the show’s narrative. She remarked, “I am incredibly proud of the team for tackling such critical topics in a way that feels genuine and earned, rather than forced or preachy. They manage to ground these themes in reality, offering insightful commentary without losing the essence of the show.”
The journey of a stand-up comedian
In addition to her reflections on censorship, Einbinder shared her journey from stand-up comedy to acting in ‘Hacks’. She described her early experiences in comedy as tumultuous, recalling nights where she faced tough crowds, including being booed at a small venue in rural Washington. “There were moments when I thought about returning to my barista job, questioning if I made a mistake pursuing this path,” she admitted. However, her passion for the art form kept her motivated.
The bravery of comedy
When discussing the bravery often attributed to comedians, Einbinder offered a nuanced perspective. “I hesitate to label it bravery; rather, I see stand-up as a desperate act for those seeking connection and expression. Yet, it’s this very desperation that fuels my love for comedy. It’s an incredible experience to share a moment with an audience, to connect through laughter and vulnerability,” she reflected.
As ‘Hacks’ prepares to tackle more contemporary issues in its upcoming season, Einbinder expressed excitement for the direction the show is heading. She noted, “We are continuing to face current events and societal challenges head-on, and it fills me with pride to be part of a project that resonates with reality while also providing entertainment.”