Jean Smart claimed her fifth Emmy Award for Best Actress in a Comedy for her role as Deborah Vance in the final season of “Hacks,” making her the first actor to win an Emmy every year for a series that lasted more than three seasons. The 75-year-old actress, who has now won eight Emmys overall, accepted the award at the 78th Emmy Awards held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. What a ride this has been,
Smart said, receiving a standing ovation. Her performance in the HBO Max series, which follows an aging stand-up comedian navigating industry challenges, has been a career-defining role.
Jean Smart Secures Fifth Emmy for ‘Hacks,’ Marks Career Milestone
“Hacks” was the top nominee among all comedies, but it faced competition from the rookie series “Widow’s Bay,” which won two acting awards. Smart’s fifth Emmy for the show brings her total to eight, including three non-Hacks Emmys for roles in “Samantha Who?” and “Frasier.” The series itself has won 12 Emmys across four seasons, with Smart securing four of those accolades.
Reveals Missing Emmy Trophy in Candid Interview
The missing trophy adds a quirky twist to Smart’s record, which includes a career spanning decades. Her other Emmys, outside of “Hacks,” were earned for guest roles in “Frasier” and a lead role in “Samantha Who?” She has also been nominated for other projects, including “Fargo” and Mare of Easttown.
Other Notable Winners and Competition Highlights
Noah Wyle secured his second Emmy for Best Actor in a Comedy for his role in “The Pitt,” HBO Max’s emergency room drama. Rhea Seehorn won Best Actress in a Drama for her lead role in Apple TV’s “Pluribus,” while Kate O’Flynn and Stephen Root took home supporting acting awards for “Widow’s Bay.” The latter show, which had previously won eight Emmys in earlier ceremonies, was a strong contender for top comedy honors.
Despite “Hacks”’s dominance, “Widow’s Bay” emerged as a notable challenger, with O’Flynn’s performance as a demonic-possessed city worker earning critical acclaim. Meanwhile, “The Pitt” led the drama category but lost key supporting acting awards. Allison Janney joined Smart as an eight-time Emmy winner, taking home Best Supporting Actress in a Drama.
The 78th Emmy Awards, broadcast on NBC, featured performances by Mariska Hargitay, who opened the telecast with a musical tribute to television. The event also highlighted the legacy of NBC, which celebrated its 100th anniversary.