Carol Burnett Makes Historic Cameo in 'Hacks' Season 4

In Season 4, Episode 4 of Hacks, comedy icon Carol Burnett makes a memorable cameo as herself, sharing a pivotal scene with Jean Smart's character, Deborah Vance, who is grappling with anxiety before her late-night show debut. Burnett offers heartfelt advice, drawing from her own experience with stage fright, suggesting Deborah focus on one person in the audience to regain composure—a tactic that helps Deborah succeed in her performance. The exchange serves as a symbolic passing of the torch between two generations of female comedic trailblazers and highlights the under-recognized contributions of women in comedy. Burnett's participation is further enriched by being filmed at Television City, home of her legendary variety show, adding historical significance. The episode also pays tribute to the victims and first responders of the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires, tying personal resilience to broader themes of loss and recovery. Burnett's celebrated career and ongoing influence underscore the episode's homage to both comedy's past and its evolving present.