Jean Smart Nears Emmy Record as 'Hacks' Final Season Dominates Comedy

Jean Smart Eyes Historic 8th Emmy for 'Hacks' Final Season

Jean Smart is the frontrunner to win her eighth Primetime Emmy for HBO Max's Hacks, which concluded its fifth and final season with a record 24 nominations. A victory on September 14 would tie her with Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Cloris Leachman for the most acting Emmys ever. Smart has already won Best Comedy Actress for all previous seasons of Hacks.

Allison Janney Could Also Tie Emmy Record

Allison Janney, nominated for Best Drama Supporting Actress, could also reach eight Emmys if she wins. If both Smart and Janney prevail, the ceremony would see two performers tying the all-time record in a single night. Janney currently holds seven Emmys, while Smart sits at seven as well (including her two for Watchmen and Samantha Who?).

'Hacks' Breaks Comedy Nomination Record

Hacks set a new record for comedy series nominations with 24, surpassing The Bear (23 in 2024). The show leads Gold Derby's predictions in multiple categories, including Best Comedy Series (54.3% odds) and Best Comedy Writing (76.2%).

Smart's Dominance in Comedy Actress Race

Smart holds a commanding 91.4% chance to win Best Comedy Actress, according to Gold Derby's odds. Her closest competitors-Lisa Kudrow (6.0%), Elle Fanning (1.4%), and Quinta Brunson (0.9%)-trail far behind. A fifth win for Hacks would make Smart the first woman to sweep every season of a series in the category.

Other Comedy Contenders: 'Widow's Bay' and 'Shrinking'

Widow's Bay has 54.3% odds for Best Comedy Series, with Matthew Rhys leading Best Comedy Actor (94.8%). Harrison Ford (Shrinking) is favored for Best Comedy Supporting Actor (59.5%), while Kate O'Flynn (Widow's Bay) leads Supporting Actress (66.8%).

Drama and Limited Series Frontrunners

In drama, The Pitt leads with 93.5% odds for Best Drama Series. Beef stars Carey Mulligan (58.5%) and Oscar Isaac (76.4%) lead the limited acting categories.

What's Next for Emmy Voters?

With voting underway, the focus is on whether Smart and Janney will make history. A Hacks sweep would cap its acclaimed run, while Widow's Bay and The Pitt aim to solidify their breakout status. The Primetime Emmy Awards air September 14 on Fox.