Gayety

Tag: Hacks

  • Megan Stalter Brings Unfiltered Chaos and Comedy to ‘The Late Show’ Wig, Merch Corset and All

    Megan Stalter Brings Unfiltered Chaos and Comedy to ‘The Late Show’ Wig, Merch Corset and All

    Megan Stalter may be promoting a new Netflix series, but when she showed up on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert, it quickly became clear she brought more than just talking points. The Too Much and Hacks star transformed her segment into a comedic fever dream filled with absurd anecdotes, questionable fashion choices, and the kind of chaotic energy that only she can master.

    The Art of the Entrance

    Stalter arrived on Colbert’s stage sporting a floor-grazing, butter-yellow wig that could double as a vintage mop, crimped in places, fraying at the ends, and anchored by a choppy fringe that barely grazed her brows. Paired with her DIY-style strapless top emblazoned with “Meg Stalter. Prettiest Girl in America” and flared denim, the look screamed kitschy Americana meets late-night surrealism.

    While there’s no confirmation whether celebrity stylist Clayton Hawkins (known for working with Olivia Rodrigo and Rachel Zegler) was behind this particular hair moment, the two recently teamed up for the Too Much premiere, where Stalter rocked a 1960s-inspired ponytail with flipped ends. Their collaborations clearly embrace a maximalist, anything-goes approach, and Tuesday night was no exception.

    Breakfast in London and a One-Table Waitress

    What followed was less of an interview and more of a ride. Stalter and Colbert barely touched down on any topic for longer than 30 seconds. She talked about her new life in London, where her character Jessica relocates in the Netflix series after a breakup, and offered her take on being a server with just one table.

    “That’s how I like to waitress,” she deadpanned. “You give more attention. You really get to know them. Sometimes too well.”

    The two veered into stories about her self-designed corset made from tour merch, the perils of carrying a purse with ombré acrylic nails, and how her publicist was probably having a meltdown backstage.

    All Eyes on Too Much

    While the interview may have spiraled in every direction, it still served its purpose: drumming up buzz for Too Much, the Lena Dunham-created romantic dramedy now streaming on Netflix. In the show, Stalter plays Jessica, a heartbroken workaholic who accepts a job in London only to fall for Felix (played by The White Lotus’s Will Sharpe). The cast also includes Emily Ratajkowski, Michael Zegen, Rhea Perlman, Adèle Exarchopoulos, and Andrew Rannells, with Dunham pulling double duty as both creator and supporting actor.

    From Chicago improv stages to viral Instagram reels, Stalter has long played characters who thrive in awkwardness, and Too Much seems like a natural next step. But her Colbert appearance makes one thing clear: no matter the platform, she’s going to keep things weird, and we wouldn’t want it any other way.

  • Mark Indelicato Shines in ‘Hacks’ Season 4 with Poppers, WeHo, and Work-Life Woes in the Mix

    Mark Indelicato Shines in ‘Hacks’ Season 4 with Poppers, WeHo, and Work-Life Woes in the Mix

    Things get unexpectedly personal—and hilariously unhinged—in the latest episode of Hacks as Jean Smart’s Deborah Vance finds herself abandoned on premiere night and turns to a very familiar face: her longtime assistant, Damien, played by Mark Indelicato.

    In Season 4, Episode 4, titled “I Love LA,” Deborah’s big debut as a late-night host is off to a rough start. Her staff is too exhausted to celebrate, her musical guest Randy Newman is a no-show, and the network stands her up at dinner. Left with a fully booked reservation and an empty chair, Deborah dials the one person she knows will answer: Damien.

     

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    A post shared by Mark Indelicato (@markindelicato)


    What follows is an unexpectedly heartfelt—and laugh-out-loud—episode that finally gives Indelicato the spotlight. While Damien has been a key background player since Hacks began, this episode cracks open his world. Over a slightly awkward dinner and a wild night out in West Hollywood, viewers get a peek at Damien’s vulnerability, his thirst for approval, and his conflicted relationship with LA gay culture.

    “I was very jazzed that no one really knew about Damien’s personal life,” Indelicato told Queerty in a recent interview. “I kind of liked him being this enigma—this workhorse. And then in Episode 4, we get to see him wiggling!”

    And wiggle he does. Damien drags Deborah to a silent disco-style gay club in WeHo, surrounded by shirtless men, flashing lights, and a very accidental poppers moment. (Yes, that kind of poppers.) It’s peak Hacks chaos—absurd, poignant, and somehow deeply relatable.

     

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    A post shared by Mark Indelicato (@markindelicato)

    Filming the scene was just as surreal as it sounds. “It’s so weird to shoot those because they’re like, ‘Okay, dance!’ and there’s no music,” Indelicato said. “Thank God I had the great Jean Smart just wiggling beside me.” He also couldn’t help but recognize some of the background extras. “They were like, ‘You’re going to dance with this guy,’ and I was like, ‘I’ve seen too much of you…’” he joked, referencing a few ahem familiar faces from the adult film world.

    The real heart of the episode, though, is the dinner scene between Damien and Deborah—a rare moment where the two get to interact without any distractions. For Indelicato, it was actually his first scene filmed this season, which helped him tap into Damien’s anxiety.

    “I was nervous! When you go on hiatus and come back, you’re like, ‘Do I remember how to act?’” he said. “But Jean is such an easy scene partner. She plays with you, sets you up for every laugh—it’s such a gift.”

    Later in the episode, Damien spills his thoughts about trying to fit into LA’s image-obsessed gay scene. “There is definitely an industry standard of what a desirable archetype is in Los Angeles cis-gay culture,” Indelicato shared. “I’m just really happy that I don’t have to subscribe to it anymore.” Cue a flash of his engagement ring: “Bling, bling, bling!”

    And yes, the infamous poppers moment—Deborah sniffing them mid-dance floor—is already a standout in the show’s legacy of chaotic brilliance. “If you told me a few years ago that Jean Smart would be in a go-go cage sniffing poppers, I would’ve said you’re insane,” Indelicato said. “And yet, here we are.”

    In a recent interview, Smart herself leaned into the absurdity. Asked what she’s learned from the queer community, she answered simply: “Poppers.”

    Fans have already declared the episode a standout, and Indelicato’s performance is earning plenty of praise for adding depth and nuance to a character often relegated to comic relief.

    Hacks Season 4 is currently streaming on Max, with new episodes dropping every Thursday.

  • Hannah Einbinder Wants ‘Hacks’ Characters Ava Daniels and Deborah Vance to Kiss Too, But Fans Might Have to Wait

    Hannah Einbinder Wants ‘Hacks’ Characters Ava Daniels and Deborah Vance to Kiss Too, But Fans Might Have to Wait

    Fans of the popular comedy Hacks have been clamoring for a romantic twist between the show’s central characters, Ava Daniels and Deborah Vance. Now, it seems that one of the show’s stars, Hannah Einbinder, might be just as eager to see these two iconic characters get together. Appearing recently on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Einbinder, who plays Ava, opened up about the possibility of a romantic relationship between her character and Deborah (played by Jean Smart), revealing that she too is rooting for the fan-favorite pairing.

    Hacks, the critically acclaimed HBO Max series, follows the dynamic between Ava Daniels, a young, bisexual comedy writer, and Deborah Vance, a legendary stand-up comedian. The two form a complex, often volatile mentor-mentee relationship, with plenty of tension, humor, and heartfelt moments throughout the series. However, it’s the subtle romantic tension between Ava and Deborah that has captured the attention of many fans, sparking a wave of fan fiction and wishful thinking about a potential kiss between the two women.

     

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    A Fan’s Wish Come True?

    When Colbert asked Einbinder about the fans who have been vocal about wanting Ava and Deborah to become romantically involved, the actress couldn’t help but laugh at the request but also sympathized with their desires.

    “I appreciate you giving me a platform to speak about this,” Einbinder started, addressing Colbert’s question. “Girls, you know that I want what you want. Where can I look into a camera?” she joked, leaning into the playful nature of the topic.

    She continued, acknowledging the enthusiastic fan base that has rallied behind the idea: “I have heard you, okay? And we want the same things. And I have relayed your message to the powers that be, okay?” Despite her understanding of the fans’ desires, Einbinder had a blunt but humorous reality check: “But, I don’t think it’s gonna happen, and that’s the truth.”

    Despite her playful tone, Einbinder was quick to emphasize that while she shares in the fans’ wishes, the reality of the situation is quite different. “And again, like, I want you to express yourself in the fan fiction, and that is beautiful. We’re not gonna get it, and we need to focus up.”

    Fans, however, haven’t let up. Einbinder went on to describe how, despite posting about serious topics on her Instagram—like advocating for environmental legislation or climate change—her followers are almost always fixated on one thing. “I’ll get like, sixteen replies that are like, ‘Make them kiss!’” she shared with Colbert. “I’m like, ‘girls, we gotta focus!’ We gotta focus, cause there’s no kissing on a dead planet, you know what I’m saying?”

    While Einbinder’s humor and charm clearly shine through in her response, it’s evident that the Hacks star understands the deep connection fans have with her character’s dynamic with Deborah. The pairing, however, remains a figment of fans’ imagination for now, as Einbinder doesn’t see it happening on-screen anytime soon.

    A Glimpse of What Could Have Been

    While the romantic possibilities between Ava and Deborah might be on the back burner, fans did get a taste of what that relationship might look like during the first season of Hacks. In one memorable scene, Ava dreams that she and Deborah wake up in bed together and share a passionate kiss. However, this fleeting moment was quickly interrupted when Ava wakes up, leaving fans wondering what could have been. Despite this brief on-screen fantasy, the show has largely kept Ava and Deborah’s relationship firmly rooted in the mentor-mentee dynamic, with a deep emotional bond but no explicit romantic gestures.

    The lack of a romantic storyline between the two doesn’t diminish the power of their relationship on the show, which has captivated audiences for its sharp wit, complex characters, and emotional depth. Deborah and Ava’s push-and-pull relationship has been a cornerstone of the show’s success, allowing for a delicate balance between comedy and drama.

    The Fourth Season of Hacks

    As for what’s to come in the fourth season, fans of the show are eager to see how the relationship between Ava and Deborah continues to evolve. The new season of Hacks, which premieres on April 10 on Max, promises more laughs, emotional growth, and of course, more drama between the two women as they continue to navigate their careers and personal lives.

    Einbinder, Smart, and the rest of the talented cast will return for another round of laughs and poignant moments. The series has been a critical success, with Smart earning numerous accolades for her portrayal of Deborah, and Einbinder’s performance as Ava earning praise for its sharp humor and emotional complexity.

    The fourth season of Hacks is expected to delve deeper into Ava’s personal and professional growth, as well as her complicated relationship with Deborah. However, despite the heartfelt connection between the two characters, fans will likely have to continue imagining the possibility of a romance between them.

    Mark Indelicato Joins the Fun

    Einbinder’s not the only one who’s shared her thoughts on the potential for an Ava-Deborah romance. Hacks co-star Mark Indelicato, who plays Deborah’s assistant Damien, also chimed in on the discussion. In response to an Instagram post featuring the interview with Colbert, Indelicato humorously commented, “Ok I agree but also KISS.” His playful endorsement of the fan-favorite pairing only further fueled speculation and excitement among fans.

    With the return of Hacks on the horizon, fans can expect even more heartwarming moments, hilarious antics, and a deepening of the characters’ relationships. While the romantic kiss fans crave may not be in the cards just yet, there’s no denying the strong bond between Ava and Deborah that continues to captivate audiences.

  • Max to Host ‘House of Vance’ Event at Coachella in Celebration of ‘Hacks’ Fourth Season with Trixie Mattel

    Max to Host ‘House of Vance’ Event at Coachella in Celebration of ‘Hacks’ Fourth Season with Trixie Mattel

    Attention, fans of Hacks and all things fabulous: Max is bringing the glamour, luxury, and wit of the hit Emmy-winning series to Palm Springs in a special celebration of its fourth season. The event, titled House of Vance by Deborah Vance, will take place on Friday, April 11, 2025, at the Casa Chino Estates in Palm Springs, perfectly timed with the excitement of the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival.

    Known for its sharp humor, unforgettable performances, and its fabulous, larger-than-life characters, Hacks has become a fan favorite, particularly among the LGBTQ+ community. With Jean Smart as the iconic Deborah Vance, the show has earned critical acclaim and a loyal following. As the show returns for its highly anticipated fourth season, the House of Vance pop-up event offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for fans to immerse themselves in the world of Deborah Vance and celebrate the incredible achievements of the series and its cast.

    A Perfect Setting for Celebration

    What better place to honor Hacks than in Palm Springs, one of the most beloved LGBTQ+ destinations in the United States? The town’s vibrant, inclusive atmosphere makes it an ideal backdrop for an event that is sure to be a fabulous fusion of luxury, fashion, and queer culture. The House of Vance by Deborah Vance pop-up will be held at the Casa Chino Estates, a striking Palm Springs venue that embodies the luxury and allure associated with Deborah’s character.

    An Exclusive Celebration for Hacks Fans

    In collaboration with Palm Springs Pride, the House of Vance event is set to offer a day full of memorable experiences for fans of the series. From the first moment, attendees will be immersed in the world of Hacks, with exclusive merchandise, live performances, and plenty of interactive experiences.

    The headline act for the event is none other than drag superstar DJ Trixie Mattel, who will keep the energy high with an unforgettable DJ set. Known for her sharp wit, creativity, and show-stopping performances, Mattel will bring her unique flair to the event, ensuring that the House of Vance is a celebration of not just the show, but of queer culture and artistry. Deborah-approved playlists, filled with music that embodies the essence of the show, will make for a truly high-energy atmosphere that promises to keep guests on their feet.

    Event Highlights and Attractions

    The House of Vance event will feature several exciting attractions and interactive moments for guests, allowing fans to experience the glamor of Deborah Vance in real-time.

    • Exclusive Deborah Vance Swag: Attendees will have the chance to grab limited-edition Hacks merchandise, including sleek House of Vance totes, stylish tank tops for the “Little Debbies,” and other iconic memorabilia. Whether you’re looking for a keepsake to remember the event or want to show off your Hacks pride, there will be plenty of high-fashion items to add to your collection.

    • Drag Extravaganza & Performances: The heart of the event will be a stunning drag and DJ performance by Trixie Mattel. Guests will enjoy a high-energy set that blends pop culture, queer artistry, and, of course, a touch of Deborah’s signature comedic charm. The show will be a celebration of the queer community’s creativity, leaving attendees with lasting memories of the event’s electric atmosphere.

    • Poolside Bliss: With the desert sun shining, guests can cool off poolside while sipping handcrafted cocktails inspired by Deborah Vance’s witty one-liners. The pool area will offer gourmet snacks and DJ sets to keep the good vibes going. Whether you’re lounging by the water or dancing under the sun, this poolside oasis will be a perfect space for relaxation and connection.

    • Blackjack with Deborah’s Flair: For those looking to channel Deborah’s Vegas roots, there will be an exclusive blackjack table featuring branded Hacks playing cards. Guests can test their luck at the tables while vying for special prizes, adding an extra layer of fun and competition to the event.

    • Deborah’s Wardrobe on Display: Fashion lovers will have the opportunity to take photos and explore curated wardrobe displays featuring iconic looks from Deborah Vance’s closet. These pieces, pulled directly from the show, will give fans an up-close look at the high-fashion outfits that have defined Deborah’s on-screen presence.

    • Interactive Moments: Fans will be able to step into Deborah’s world in a variety of ways. From personalized tarot readings to a portrait lounge styled after some of Deborah’s most iconic moments on the show, these interactive experiences will make attendees feel as if they’ve stepped right into the glamorous life of Deborah Vance. Whether you’re looking to get your future read or snap the perfect photo, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

    RSVP for a Glamorous Day

    For fans eager to attend the House of Vance event, RSVPs are now open for general admission. The event is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the return of Hacks and connect with other fans in a setting that embodies the show’s signature luxury and humor. With its mix of high-energy performances, exclusive merchandise, and interactive moments, this one-day pop-up will offer a truly unforgettable experience.

    Hacks will return for its fourth season on April 10, 2025, on Max, with all previous seasons available to stream now. For fans who can’t attend the event in person, the season premiere will be an exciting reminder of why Hacks has become one of the most beloved queer television shows of recent years.

    This year’s House of Vance event promises to be the ultimate celebration of Hacks—a show that has captured the hearts of LGBTQ+ viewers and beyond. As Palm Springs gears up to host the event, fans can expect a day full of glamor, fun, and, of course, Deborah-approved antics. Don’t miss out on this chance to immerse yourself in the world of Hacks and celebrate one of the most iconic TV characters of all time.

  • ‘Hacks’ Season 4 Trailer: Deborah and Ava’s Tension Escalates in Battle for Late-Night Success

    ‘Hacks’ Season 4 Trailer: Deborah and Ava’s Tension Escalates in Battle for Late-Night Success

    Max has dropped the trailer and key art for the highly anticipated fourth season of Hacks, which is set to premiere with a dual-episode release on April 10 at 6 p.m. PT.

    Season 4 picks up with increasing tension between the dynamic duo, Deborah Vance (Jean Smart) and Ava Daniels (Hannah Einbinder), as they continue to build their late-night show. The official logline for the upcoming season teases, “Tensions rise as Deborah and Ava endeavor to get their late-night show off the ground and make history doing it.”

    The newly released trailer hints at a deeper rift between the two as they navigate their complex professional and personal relationship. In a tense moment, Deborah and Ava are seen leaving a conference room after a heated exchange. “Well, aren’t you a big brave girl?” Deborah sneers at Ava, to which Ava responds with a quick-witted comeback, “I guess I am. It’s for the best.” Deborah stares Ava down, her voice calm but pointed as she responds, “We’ll see.”

    The trailer sets the tone for a season filled with high stakes and high drama as the two women continue their journey through the unpredictable world of show business. As their late-night project inches closer to reality, both Deborah and Ava must confront their own personal and professional challenges, all while trying to outsmart the industry’s many obstacles.

    The fourth season of Hacks promises to build on the sharp wit, humor, and tension that have made the show a fan favorite since its debut. Jean Smart has received critical acclaim for her portrayal of Deborah, a legendary comedian struggling to adapt to a changing industry. Hannah Einbinder has also garnered praise for her role as Ava, the sharp-tongued writer who helps Deborah navigate this new chapter of her career.

    Season 4 is expected to explore the evolving dynamic between Deborah and Ava as they try to balance their creative differences while pursuing their ambitious goals. The emotional tension between the characters is only heightened by their complicated history, making for an exciting season ahead.

    Fans can expect the new season to continue delivering the sharp, incisive humor that has made Hacks one of the most critically acclaimed shows in recent years. Alongside the laughs, Hacks has never shied away from exploring deeper themes of aging, career reinvention, and the complexities of female friendships in a tough industry.

    The premiere of Season 4 of Hacks is set for April 10 at 6 p.m. PT, with two episodes available to stream on Max. With a mix of comedy, drama, and sharp commentary, the upcoming season is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

    As Deborah and Ava continue to clash and collaborate, fans can expect plenty of twists and turns in this highly anticipated new season. Whether or not their show will be the success they hope for is anyone’s guess, but one thing is certain: the drama between Deborah and Ava is far from over.

  • Megan Stalter Opens Up About a Former Audition for ‘Saturday Night Live’ and The Challenges of Fame

    Megan Stalter Opens Up About a Former Audition for ‘Saturday Night Live’ and The Challenges of Fame

    In a candid conversation with Katya Zamolodchickova, actress and comedian Megan Stalter opened up about her journey through comedy, her role in Hacks, and the trials of navigating both personal and professional relationships in the entertainment world.

    When asked about her favorite comedian on Grindr’s Who’s The A**hole podcast, Stalter’s enthusiasm was palpable. She mentioned Maria Bamford, a personal favorite, along with the dynamic duo of John Early and Kate Berlant, who she admires not just for their talent but also as close friends.

    She shared, “I was fans of them before becoming friends,” admitting that it’s always a bit surreal when people you admire become successful. However, the relationship isn’t without its complexities, as Stalter reflected, “Isn’t it weird when your friends become really successful?”

    The conversation soon shifted to Hacks, the popular HBO series where Stalter plays Kayla, a character who has captured the hearts of viewers for her quirky energy. Katya, a self-proclaimed Hacks superfan, praised the chemistry between Stalter’s character and Jimmy, played by Paul W. Downs. “Jimmy and Kayla’s dynamic is one of the most charming, lovely, funny relationships on TV in history,” Katya said. Stalter, with a laugh, responded, “That’s so nice,” but didn’t shy away from offering her thoughts on the fictional relationship, suggesting that Kayla, despite her affection for Jimmy, never sees him in a sexual light. Instead, “She’s hungry for his attention,” Stalter quipped, encapsulating the odd, almost sibling-like tension that defines their relationship.

    The excitement surrounding the show’s upcoming season was palpable during their conversation. While Stalter couldn’t spill too many details, she teased, “It’s a wild, unpredictable time.” When asked about her character’s appearance, she mentioned that Kayla would have a more “mature” look, though she added with a laugh, “I sound like I got a boob job or something.” Fans of the show can expect surprises, though Stalter kept the specifics under wraps.

    Stalter’s reflections on Hacks weren’t just about her character’s evolution but also about the joy of performing. “I think a dream job is just being on stage because I like to live perform a lot,” Stalter shared. The thrill of a live audience, she noted, is unparalleled. Despite her success on television, Stalter remains deeply passionate about live performance, admitting that nothing compares to the energy of being in front of an audience.

    However, not all her experiences in entertainment have been glamorous. Stalter revealed that she had once auditioned for Saturday Night Live but didn’t make the cut. While she confessed that it would have been a dream to be a part of the iconic show, she jokingly added that today, she might hesitate, especially if the pressure was as intense as Katya’s hypothetical scenario: “Gun to my head?” Stalter quipped, showing her comedic sensibility even in the face of challenging questions.

    The topic of celebrity relationships took an unexpected turn when Katya asked about the dynamics between Hacks’ showrunners. Stalter shared that the three creators, Paul W. Downs, Jen Statsky, and Lucia Aniello, are a married couple. “They’re a power couple,” she said, adding with humor that they kept their romance professional on set, though “I’ve probably seen them kiss at a party.”

    Beyond her role in Hacks, Stalter has made waves with her candid, often provocative insights into social behavior. She and Katya discussed everything from bi representation to the ethics of using weight-loss drugs like Ozempic. Stalter, who is known for her no-nonsense approach, spoke critically about people using Ozempic to lose weight without acknowledging the consequences, such as the side effect of frequent bathroom trips. “I would rather be 500 pounds than shitting all day,” Stalter remarked, illustrating her disapproval of such quick fixes. The conversation veered into a humorous yet serious discussion about body image and societal expectations, as Stalter questioned why anyone would sacrifice comfort for a smaller body.

    In a more playful segment, Katya and Stalter played a game of “asshole or not asshole,” in which they debated various behaviors. Stalter shared her perspective on everything from sexual behavior to career priorities, revealing her values when it comes to relationships and work-life balance. “Life is about people,” Stalter said when discussing the importance of prioritizing loved ones over career achievements. “If you don’t prioritize the people around you, then what will you do, have your tapes to watch?”

    While her role in Hacks has catapulted her into the spotlight, Stalter’s humor and frankness about the entertainment industry, celebrity culture, and personal dynamics make her a refreshing voice. Her honesty about the struggles of fame, navigating friendships, and finding joy in live performance adds a personal touch to her career achievements, proving that Stalter’s success is as much about her authenticity as her talent.

    As Stalter continues to shine on Hacks, she remains grounded in her commitment to both the craft and the people who matter most. Whether discussing the unpredictable world of television, the complexities of relationships, or the trials of living in the public eye, Stalter proves she’s more than just a rising star—she’s a comedian unafraid to speak her truth.