Hannah Einbinder & Jesse McCartney Decode Ava’s Surprise Party in ‘Hacks’
Season 5 of Hacks continued its final run with Episode 2, titled “Number One Fan.” The installment centers on Deborah (Jean Smart) arranging an elaborate surprise for Ava following a New York City push to land Madison Square Garden. The party scene features a surprise guest performance by Jesse McCartney, who sings “Beautiful Soul.”
How the cameo originated
The idea dated back to Season 1. Showrunners Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs, and Jen Statsky asked about posters in Ava’s childhood room. Hannah Einbinder told them she imagined a Jesse McCartney poster.
That detail later appeared on screen during a scene where Deborah comforts Ava after her father’s funeral. A fan discovery led McCartney to notice the poster after a friend suggested a rewatch.
From a direct message to a TV appearance
McCartney contacted Einbinder after spotting the poster. They did not know each other before that message. Einbinder confirmed she had been a longtime fan and had attended one of his early shows.
McCartney offered to collaborate if an opportunity arose. Five seasons later, producers invited him to appear. He accepted, fitting the shoot into a three-day window between tour dates.
On-set chemistry and extra moments
The on-camera performance produced a visible emotional response from Einbinder. McCartney described the reaction as genuine and meaningful. They met at the show’s premiere and forged a friendly connection.
Einbinder praised McCartney for being kind and reliable. Cast and crew also enjoyed off-camera jams, reportedly including “Body Language” and “How Do You Sleep?”
Episode details and viewing
“Number One Fan” includes nods to Ava’s Massachusetts roots, like references to Bertucci’s and Papa Gino’s. The episode is part of Hacks’ fifth and final season on HBO Max.
The series airs Thursdays at 9/8c on HBO Max. For more coverage and reactions, visit Filmogaz.com.
- Actors: Hannah Einbinder, Jean Smart, Jesse McCartney
- Showrunners: Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs, Jen Statsky
- Highlighted song: “Beautiful Soul”
- Setting: New York City, Madison Square Garden
