- HACKS finale for season 4 filmed at iconic Singapore locations with InfoComm Media and Singapore Tourism support.
- IMDA and STB’s media partnership with Max and Universal Studio Group boosts Singapore’s image as a top filming and tourism spot.
- Singapore On-Screen Fund highlights local talent in global media productions.
Singapore’s bright cityscape takes the global stage in a hit Emmy-winning series, shining a spotlight on local talent, famous locations, and the power of advanced media partnerships.
Partnership Announcement
In a press release by STB, the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) and Singapore Tourism Board (STB) partnered with Max and Universal Studio Group for a special project.
This collaboration was for the HACKS finale (S4), an Emmy-winning comedy series.
The episode was filmed in Singapore and made its debut on 30 May 2025 at 9:00am SGT in Singapore and on 29 May 2025 in the USA.
- Debut time in USA: 6:00pm PT / 9:00pm ET
- Debut time in Singapore: 9:00am SGT
According to STB, this is the first time HACKS filmed outside the United States.
HACKS Finale Filming Details
HACKS usually films in Los Angeles.
This new season follows the main character, Deborah Vance, played by Jean Smart, as she is forced to travel and perform abroad.
This plot brought the cast and crew to Singapore, where they used several iconic locations for filming.
- Benjamin Sheares Bridge
- Changi Airport
- Gardens by the Bay
- NOVA at One Raffles Place
- Resorts World Sentosa – Casino and Ocean Restaurant
- The Clifford Pier
- The Fullerton Bay Hotel
- The Fullerton Hotel
- Victoria Theatre
- WingsOverAsia’s Hangar66 Cafe
This episode allows viewers to see the city’s skyline and unique spots.
As quoted in STB, Eileen Lee, Senior Vice President at STB, Americas, said, Our city’s distinctive and dynamic cityscape provided the perfect backdrop for Deborah and Ava’s adventures, and this partnership reinforces Singapore’s position as a world-class filming destination while offering viewers a glimpse of our vibrant city.
The production team picked sites that showcase the best of modern Singapore.
Support and Funding
The filming got help from the Singapore On-Screen Fund, a joint move by IMDA and STB.
The fund supports global film and TV projects and aims to shine the spotlight on Singapore for tourism and movie-making.
It also helps develop local talent and gives media workers chances to work with big players from overseas.
- Backs local artists and crew
- Boosts skills of Singaporeans
- Connects local media industry to international groups
As quoted in STB, Yvonne Tang, Assistant Chief Executive of Media Industry Group at IMDA, mentioned, This exciting partnership with Max and Universal Studio Group for the HACKS season four finale is a great example of how Singapore can support global media productions – with skilled talent, reliable infrastructure, and creative capabilities.
This support makes Singapore more popular as a world-class filming location.
Statements from Organisations and Creators
The project saw strong support from IMDA and STB leaders.
IMDA said the partnership highlights Singapore’s digital transformation for media and helps lift local skills with new global links.
STB said the show gives a fresh view of Singapore, showing off city life and famous landmarks to the world.
| Organisation | Role |
|---|---|
| IMDA | Develops digital and media industry. Provides support for global partnerships. |
| STB | Promotes Singapore as a tourist spot. Shapes events to boost the economy. |
| Max | Streaming platform. Hosts HACKS and other big-name shows. |
Paul W. Downs, Lucia Aniello, and Jen Statsky from HACKS were quoted by STB as saying, We had such a blast shooting an episode of HACKS S4 in Singapore. Everyone was so warm and welcoming, and we couldn’t have done it without the Infocomm Media Development Authority and Singapore Tourism Board’s support.
Series and Cast Information
HACKS stars Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder.
The episode also features Paul W. Downs, Megan Stalter, Carl Clemons-Hopkins, and many more.
- Jean Smart: Six-time Emmy winner
- Hannah Einbinder: Three-time Emmy nominee
- Paul W. Downs: Co-creator and actor
The series is executive produced by Paul W. Downs, Lucia Aniello, Jen Statsky, Michael Schur, David Miner, Morgan Sackett, and Joe Mande.
It has won multiple Emmy awards and features award-winning talent.
Organisations Involved
IMDA leads Singapore’s digital growth and brings new ways for the media sector to thrive.
It works with top technology, strong regulations, and pushes talent and infrastructure growth.
STB drives local tourism, creates joint projects, and uses the Passion Made Possible brand to attract visitors.
Max is the streaming home for large brands like HBO, DC, and Warner Bros.
Max offers top rated shows, movies, and documentaries including HACKS and Friends.
Broader Impact: Media Partnership and Tourism
This media partnership shows how strategic collaboration and smart use of local funds can help Singapore stand out worldwide.
It brings jobs, skills, and global attention to our local film industry and key tourism spots.
Singapore’s advanced support and creative crew helped make the HACKS finale possible.
- Raises Singapore’s profile.
- Strengthens international links in media and tourism.
- Opens new opportunities for local talent.
Do you think more global TV shows should film in Singapore to boost tourism and jobs? Click Agree or Disagree below.
