Hacks co-creator Paul W. Downs discusses potential spinoff

During an appearance on ‘Watch What Happens Live’ with Andy Cohen, ‘Hacks’ co-creator Paul W. Downs expressed interest in a potential spinoff series centered on his character, Jimmy LaSaque Jr., and Megan Stalter’s character, Kayla Schaefer. While Downs noted that such a project would be enjoyable, he emphasized a desire to respect the original series' conclusion, stating, “It does feel like the ending... let’s leave it like that.”

Cohen also used the appearance to address a Season 5 joke involving his personal life. Downs explained that the remark, delivered by Jean Smart’s character, was a result of Smart’s improvisational style, noting, “We can never rein her in.”

The series has achieved significant critical success, with its fifth season earning 24 Emmy nominations, the most for any comedy season in history. This includes nominations for Outstanding Comedy Series and individual acting nods for Jean Smart, Hannah Einbinder, Megan Stalter, and Paul W. Downs.