Paul W. Downs Addresses Andy Cohen’s Live Call-Out Following ‘Hacks’ Joke

Paul W. Downs, co-creator of the HBO Max series Hacks, recently found himself at the center of a live television exchange with Andy Cohen. During an episode of Watch What Happens Live, Cohen confronted Downs about a joke that targeted the Bravo host, leading to a heated yet humorous interaction.

In an exclusive interview with E! News at the 28th Television Academy Hall of Fame ceremony on August 13, Downs expressed his surprise at Cohen’s remarks, stating, “I can’t believe he went there.” He further noted the seriousness of the situation, mentioning, “And all I have to say is my lawyers don’t want me speaking about it because we are taking action.”

The controversial joke was crafted by Downs along with writers Lucia Aniello and Jen Statsky, and was performed by series star Jean Smart in a previous episode of the award-winning show. In that episode, Smart’s character, Deborah Vance, made a quip about reality shows, saying, “The problem with reality shows is you cannot control the narrative. I mean, that’s why I’ve turned down Andy Cohen more than every twink on Fire Island.”

Downs and his co-star, Meg Stalter, appeared on Cohen’s Bravo talk show on August 11, where Cohen challenged Downs regarding the specific line referencing him.

Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Eonline