Paul W. Downs

Paul W. Downs, an actor, writer, and director known for co-creating the hit series Hacks, shares his journey with Conan O’Brien. They dive into the amusing dynamics of writing for a fake late-night show and the unique challenges of blending personal and professional lives with his creative partner, Lucia Aniello. Paul recounts a missed encounter with Bon Jovi at a lavish hotel and reflects on his childhood as a Girl Scout, sparking humorous banter about cookie sales and scouting antics.

In this insightful discussion, Paul W. Downs and Jen Statsky, the creative minds behind HBO Max's 'Hacks', dive into the intricate dance between artistic vision and commercial success. They reflect on the show's portrayal of the comedy landscape, shedding light on their collaborative writing process and the pressures of the final season. Additionally, they explore the emotional bond audiences form with characters, while navigating the evolving dynamics of the television industry. Expect candid insights and behind-the-scenes stories that highlight the challenges of bringing humor to life!

Join Paul W. Downs, a talented creator behind Hacks, and Jen Statsky, a collaborative writer on the same series, as they dive into the art of balancing comedy with emotional depth. They explore the struggles of female comedians in a male-dominated industry and share humorous insights from juggling writing and parenting. Their discussion reveals how Ava and Deborah's relationship serves as a creative anchor, showcasing the complexity of crafting mixed-tone narratives while collaborating in a dynamic writers' room.

Join acclaimed actor Colman Domingo, known for his roles in 'Euphoria' and 'Fear the Walking Dead', as he shares insights on his film 'Sing Sing'. Documentary filmmaker Lauren Greenfield discusses her impactful series 'Social Studies', revealing the darker side of social media's effect on youth mental health. Actor Paul W. Downs dives into the world of late-night television and the evolving landscape of comedy, peppering the discussion with humor and personal stories. It's a delightful blend of art, friendship, and the nuances of modern media!

In this discussion, showrunners Paul W. Downs and Jen Statsky share insights from their HBO Max series, "Hacks". Downs, an actor and showrunner, talks about the delicate balance between art and commerce in entertainment. Statsky, with her late-night writing background, examines how the industry's evolution impacts comedy. They delve into the challenges of writing collaboratively, pitching shows, and maintaining artistic integrity amidst corporate influence. The conversation highlights the creative dynamics that shape modern comedy while addressing the pressures of a changing landscape.