Andy Cohen Confronts ‘Hacks’ Creator Over Joke on Live TV

Andy Cohen confronted “Hacks” co-creator Paul W. Downs on live television after the HBO Max comedy made a joke about him in its fifth season.

During Tuesday’s episode of Bravo’s “Watch What Happens Live,” Cohen showed a clip in which Jean Smart’s character, Deborah Vance, says she has repeatedly turned down Cohen, comparing him to “every twink on Fire Island.”

Cohen jokingly demanded an explanation from Downs. Costar Meg Stalter said she had warned Downs not to use Cohen’s name, while Downs blamed Smart, saying she often improvises her lines.

The conversation also turned to a possible spinoff focused on Downs’ character, Jimmy, and Stalter’s Kayla. Stalter said they are interested but are not planning to make one. Downs said they would “love to do it,” but felt the original series ended well and should be left as it is.

“Hacks” concluded its five-season run recently, though discussions about its future have continued.