LOS ANGELES (AP) — Jean Smart made history Monday night, winning her fifth Emmy Award for lead actress in a comedy series for her role as Deborah Vance in HBO Max’s acclaimed series “Hacks.” This victory marks a groundbreaking achievement, making her the first woman to win an Emmy for every season of a television series.
Smart, 75, completed an undefeated run with her win, having taken home an Emmy for each of the show’s five seasons. The audience gave her a standing ovation as she walked to the stage, where she cleverly quipped, “Just the men stay standing. The girls get to sit down.”
This award is Smart’s eighth Emmy overall, tying her with Cloris Leachman and Julia Louis-Dreyfus for the most acting trophies in Emmy history. Her previous wins include guest spots on “Frasier” and a supporting role in “Samantha Who.”
“Hacks” debuted in 2021 and concluded in May, with Smart dedicating her win to the show’s creative team. She expressed gratitude to HBO, Universal, her representatives, and her children, calling them her “anchor.”
In her closing remarks, she reflected on her journey, stating, “What a ride!” before playfully tossing her Emmy into the air and catching it.
Throughout “Hacks'” run, Smart’s only competitor for lead comedy actress was Quinta Brunson for “Abbott Elementary” at the January 2024 ceremony when “Hacks” was not eligible. Smart’s final win highlights her exceptional talent and the show’s enduring impact in the comedy genre.
