How Hannah Einbinder reacted when 'Hacks' co-star Jean Smart got a new assistant who looks like her

Jean Smart’s Co-star Hannah Einbinder Shares Amusing Anecdote on “Hacks” Set

Jean Smart’s appreciation for Hannah Einbinder extends beyond the screen, as evidenced by a recent humorous encounter shared by Einbinder.

Einbinder’s Surprise Encounter with Smart’s Doppelganger Assistant

Einbinder, who stars as young comedy writer Ava opposite Smart’s veteran comedian Deborah in the acclaimed HBO series “Hacks,” recounted a surprising incident involving Smart’s new assistant. According to Einbinder, the uncanny resemblance between herself and the assistant led to a comical exchange at Smart’s residence.

During a Tuesday appearance on “TODAY with Jenna & Friends,” Einbinder described visiting Smart’s home for a card game when she was met at the gate by Smart’s “new assistant.” Einbinder elaborated, “And she opened the door, and it is a red-headed queen named Molly with a bob,” gesturing to her own similar appearance.

The actress continued, depicting the ensuing confusion, “And Jean’s at the front door, and I’m going, ‘Are you kidding me?’ And she’s like, ‘She means nothing to me.’ And poor Molly doesn’t understand our dynamics. And she’s like, ‘Should I go?’”

Real-Life Camaraderie Mirrors On-Screen Chemistry

Despite their characters’ often conflicting dynamic on “Hacks,” Einbinder emphasized the genuine affection and close bond she shares with Smart.

“I love Jean,” Einbinder affirmed. “Yes, we are thick as thieves.”

This sentiment aligns with Einbinder’s previous remarks about the swift development of their rapport after “Hacks” debuted in 2021.

“We really did have an instant connection and an instant trust because I think we had to be in this very close, tight-knit relationship with these characters,” she explained in a prior interview with TODAY.com. “It also is so innate, to her and myself, to just be kind of open as people. And so, that felt really compatible.”

Einbinder’s Heartfelt Tribute to Smart at Hollywood Walk of Fame Ceremony

Einbinder, a three-time Emmy nominee for her performance in “Hacks,” further demonstrated her admiration for Smart, a three-time Emmy winner for the same series. She delivered a speech honoring Smart when the veteran actress received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2022.

Einbinder playfully began her tribute, quipping, “What can I say about Jean Smart that hasn’t been type-screamed in capital letters by every lesbian with an internet connection?”

She then continued with sincere praise, “Well, there’s actually a lot I can say about Jean Smart because whether you’re with her for a day or a couple years, like I’ve been, you’re sure to leave carrying something she’s given you. Everyone knows that Jean is an enchanting performer with a God-given gift for storytelling. What I’d like to focus on today is how beautiful a human being she is.”

“Hacks” Season 4 Premiere Date Announced

The highly anticipated fourth season of “Hacks,” starring Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder, is set to premiere on April 10 on HBO.