Kaitlin Olson’s standout performance in ‘Hacks’ season 3

A masterclass in comedic timing

It takes a unique talent to match the sharp wit and snarkiness of Jean Smart’s Deborah Vance on Hacks. Kaitlin Olson, portraying D.J., Deborah’s daughter, does just that with remarkable finesse. Olson’s ability to expose the intricate layers of her character’s relationship with her mother is nothing short of extraordinary. She embodies the essence of a chip off the old, humorously sarcastic, and cynical block.

Olson’s moment to shine

Season 3, episode 3 of the Max comedy series was Olson’s time to shine, and she did so brilliantly. This episode, titled The Roast of Deborah Vance, showcases Olson’s exceptional ability to balance genuine emotion with scene-stealing humor. Her performance in this episode earned her a guest acting Emmy nomination, a testament to her prowess.

The setup: A deal with Deborah

The episode begins with Deborah asking D.J. to join the dais of people roasting her at a significant Vegas event. D.J. agrees, but only if Deborah attends one of her Narcotics Anonymous meetings. Deborah consents, and what follows is a rollercoaster of emotions and comedy.

At the meeting, Deborah starts with a heartfelt tribute to D.J.’s five years of sobriety. However, she quickly shifts gears, seizing the opportunity to entertain the attentive audience with jokes. This shift infuriates D.J., leading to a heated confrontation where she reveals her pregnancy, adding, “I wasn’t supposed to tell anybody because of the anatomy scan because, technically … it’s a geriatric pregnancy.” The tension escalates as D.J. warns her mother, “Don’t you dare say a goddamn word!”

The roast: A comedic triumph

Days later, at the roast, D.J. takes the podium with prepared jokes on index cards. Initially awkward, she gains confidence with each joke, culminating in the repeated punchline, “What a cunt!” Olson’s delivery of these three words, each time with a different inflection, brings the house down, earning her cheers and a standing ovation.

A deeper understanding

At the roast afterparty, D.J. is still basking in the applause. When Deborah approaches her with praise, D.J. has an epiphany. She realizes that her mother’s obsession with comedy is akin to her own struggle with addiction. “I finally get it — why comedy was always the most important thing to you. I spent my whole life thinking you were a narcissist but turns out you’re actually an addict like me. You’re addicted to getting laughs … I can go to group to stay sober, but you can’t — your addiction is the group. There’s no hope for you.”

Olson’s comedic mastery

Kaitlin Olson is no stranger to comedy, having honed her craft over several decades. However, her work on Hacks elevates her skill set to new heights. She demonstrates an impeccable command over every syllable, understanding the nuances of rhythm, tone, and volume. Olson’s performance is a masterclass in comedic timing and emotional depth.

Behind the scenes: A special connection

Series creator Paul W. Downs recalls one of Olson’s first days on set with Jean Smart. Before they had been formally introduced, Smart would finish a scene with Olson and then run around the set to watch her continue. This is a rare occurrence, highlighting the special connection and mutual respect between the two actresses. Smart sees something extraordinary in Olson, and it’s high time the TV Academy does too.

Final thoughts

Kaitlin Olson’s portrayal of D.J. in Hacks is a testament to her exceptional talent and versatility. Her ability to navigate the fine line between genuine emotion and comedic brilliance makes her a standout performer. As viewers, we are fortunate to witness such a masterful display of acting. For those who haven’t yet experienced Olson’s magic, The Roast of Deborah Vance is a must-watch episode that encapsulates her brilliance.

In the world of cinema and TV series, performances like Olson’s remind us of the power of storytelling and the impact of well-crafted characters. As we continue to explore new narratives and characters, let us celebrate the artists who bring these stories to life with such passion and skill.