Phil Keoghan says ‘Hacks’ star asked to be on ‘Amazing Race’ during crossover episode — then backtracked
During the filming of a 'Hacks' crossover episode with 'The Amazing Race,' Kaitlin Olson expressed interest in competing on the reality show but later backed off after learning about the demanding production schedule. Phil Keoghan, host of 'The Amazing Race,' revealed that multiple cast and crew members showed interest, though many were surprised by the show's rigorous logistics. The crossover idea originated from 'Hacks' creators, who are fans of the CBS series, and Keoghan collaborated on the script to ensure authenticity.
- ▪Kaitlin Olson asked Phil Keoghan about being on 'The Amazing Race' during the 'Hacks' crossover episode but reconsidered after hearing about the show's demanding format.
- ▪Phil Keoghan said many people on the 'Hacks' set, including crew members, expressed interest in appearing on 'The Amazing Race.'
- ▪The 'Hacks' crossover episode features a fictional celebrity version of 'The Amazing Race' with Jean Smart, Kaitlin Olson, the Property Brothers, and Trisha Paytas.
- ▪Keoghan consulted on the script to ensure the portrayal of 'The Amazing Race' was accurate and authentic to the real show.
- ▪The idea for the crossover was initiated by 'Hacks' creators Paul W. Downs, Lucia Aniello, and Jen Statsky, who are fans of the long-running reality series.
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TV exclusive Phil Keoghan says ‘Hacks’ star asked to be on ‘Amazing Race’ during crossover episode — then backtracked By Eric Todisco Published April 30, 2026, 10:10 p.m. ET Kaitlin Olson asked Phil Keoghan to be on “The Amazing Race” when they filmed the “Hacks” crossover episode that aired Thursday night. “Kaitlin, who plays [Jean Smart’s] daughter, she had expressed some interest in going,” Keoghan told Page Six in an exclusive interview. “And I started talking through it all with her.” But Keoghan, 58, said the “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” actress backtracked once she heard “what’s really involved” in appearing on the CBS reality show.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Page Six.