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Austin Film Festival's On StoryAuthor: Austin Film Festival
Austin Film Festival's On Story Podcast is the companion to Austin Film Festival's television show, On Story. Get an uncensored inside look at the creative process of film making through the eyes of some of the entertainment industry's most prolific writers, directors and producers. Language: en Genres: Arts, TV & Film, Visual Arts Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Inside the Writers Room: Hacks
Episode 19
Wednesday, 9 September, 2026
This week on On Story, a conversation on Hacks with its co-creator and co-showrunner Jen Statsky. Hacks follows the odd-couple antics of trailblazing standup comedian Deborah Vance, played by Jean Smart, and struggling up-and-coming comedy writer Ava Daniels, played by Hannah Einbinder, who's hired to help Deborah breathe new life into her worn-out routine. The pair form a close bond as Ava pushes Deborah to take risks and pursue her lifelong dream of hosting a late night talk show. Hacks is packed with scene stealing supporting and guest performances by Meg Stalter, Paul W. Downs, Julianne Nicholson, Laurie Metcalf, and more. The final season received a record-breaking 24 Emmy nominations, including a nomination for Outstanding Comedy Series. Jen Statsky co-created Hacks alongside Lucia Aniello and Paul W. Downs. Statsky previously worked as a writer for Late Night With Jimmy Fallon, Parks and Recreation, Broad City, and The Good Place. I sat down with Jen Statsky for a conversation on crafting the pitch document for Hacks, building Ava and Deborah's explosive relationship, and the meta-challenge of writing a show that's all about the writing process.
