The sharp-tongued rivalry that defined a generation of comedy has officially entered a new era. For three seasons, fans of the hit series Hacks have tuned in to watch the legendary Deborah Vance (Jean Smart) and her Millennial writer Ava (Hannah Einbinder) trade insults that were as brutal as they were hilarious. But after the latest episode, the internet is buzzing about a major shift: the central feud is officially dead, and “bestie” energy has taken its place.
The viral moment kicked off with a classic rug pull involving Deborah’s most obsessive fans, affectionately known as “The Little Debbies.” As Deborah attempts to claw her way back to the top with a career-defining solo gig at Madison Square Garden, she finds herself facing a room of disgruntled superfans who are livid over her recent “Hollywood” behavior.
The Little Debbies Take Over X
Social media users on X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok have been quick to clip the hilarious grievances shared by the fan group. From a man paralyzed with indecision because Deborah’s “Do’s and Don’ts” list hasn’t been updated in two years to a woman mourning the discontinued “Deborah Vance Red Light Mask,” the absurd fandom moments have become instant memes.
“The Little Debbies are the most relatable part of the show,” one fan joked on X. “I also would risk the skin burns for a Deborah Vance tan.”
The tension peaked when the fans confronted the rumor that has been gaining traction online: the theory that Deborah is actually a lizard-person. While the comedy hit its stride with these absurdities, the real emotional core of the episode was the undeniable bond between Deborah and Ava.
From Blackmail to Birthday Parties
The show has come a long way from the dark backstabbing and generational jabs that characterized the early seasons. Hannah Einbinder recently opened up to The Hollywood Reporter about how the dynamic has evolved, especially following the shocking season three finale where Ava used a dark ultimatum to get ahead.
“There were some Ava mafioso moves,” Einbinder shared, referencing her character’s blackmailing era. “But from that point on… it’s really been about being steady and solid and working toward this goal again with Deborah.”
That “solid” footing was on full display this week as Deborah threw Ava a surprisingly thoughtful th birthday party. While Ava quickly clocked that the party was partly Deborah’s way of proving she actually has friends, the genuine giggles and hugs between the two indicated a release of joy that fans haven’t seen before.
What Is Next for the Duo?
The episode ended on a high note with Deborah landing the coveted Madison Square Garden gig, even if the date is set for the notoriously complicated September th. With the feud finally killed off, the series is venturing into uncharted territory.
While “cozy” isn’t a word usually associated with the high-stakes world of Deborah Vance, the shift to a supportive partnership has fans eager to see how the duo handles the road to the Garden. The question remains: can they keep the peace, or are there still a few twists left in the bag?
One thing is for sure: the internet will be watching to see if Deborah’s “bestie” era lasts—and if those lizard-person rumors ever get addressed.
