Jean Smart bids farewell to ‘Hacks’
Summary
Jean Smart joins Fresh Air to discuss her record-breaking Emmy nominations for the final season of HBO’s Hacks. She reflects on the show’s complex female dynamics, her transformative role in Fargo, and her personal life, including her late husband and adoption. The episode also features a review of Daniel Mason’s novel Country People.
Topics discussed
Introduction: Jean Smart and the record-breaking success of Hacks
The lesbian cruise episode and the evolving Deborah-Ava relationship
Jean Smart's mentorship of co-star Hannah Einbinder
Playing matriarchal roles in Fargo and Designing Women
Jean Smart's ancestor accused in the Salem witch trials
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Jean Smart's 35-year marriage and late-life adoption
The series finale: Deborah's cancer diagnosis and Paris trip
Reflections on the show's planned five-season arc
Book review of Country People and closing credits
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