The sixth season of Apple TV+’s spy thriller, Slow Horses, premiered on 16 September, but it arrives to a mixed critical reception even as the show’s future has been confirmed through an eighth season. Gary Oldman, who stars as Jackson Lamb, also recently revealed that the series counts Queen Camilla and Prince William among its dedicated fanbase.
Critical Reception for Season Six
The latest instalment marks a notable shift for the series, being the first season not guided by creator Will Smith, whose “unusually sharp comic tongue” previously defined the espionage saga. According to The Guardian, the absence of Smith’s “drollery is discernible in a more straight-faced new story”, with Gaby Chiappe taking over as lead writer.
Critics suggest the show, now “old”, is starting to “run out of ideas” despite remaining “slick and confident”. The Guardian highlights a move towards a “more conventional thriller”, with “geopolitical machinations almost entirely on mute”. The plot for season six, which adapts two books, “Joe Country” and “Slough House”, reportedly centres on a “long chase” as “old friends unexpectedly reappear” and past team members are targeted by “frighteningly confident, black-clad killers” played by MyAnna Buring and Kyle Soller.
Concerns were raised about the plot’s reliance on returning characters like Rosalind Eleazar (Louisa), Joanna Scanlan (Moira), and Hugo Weaving (Frank), suggesting it “feels like something that might be done by a show that finds itself short of ideas”. The review also noted instances where antagonists “suddenly become incompetent” to prolong the story, and the “vicious banter” is “not quite as piercing as it used to be”. However, the casting of Lenny Rush as a civilian caught in the crossfire was praised for immediately improving the show.
Future Seasons and Royal Fans
Despite the critical notes on the latest season, the future of Slow Horses is secure. While a seventh season has already been filmed, Radio Times confirmed ahead of the season six premiere that an eighth season has also been commissioned. The eighth season will adapt Mick Herron’s ninth book, “Clown Town”.
Gary Oldman is set to return as Jackson Lamb for season eight, with Kristin Scott Thomas “almost certainly” reprising her role as Diana Taverner. The synopsis for season eight promises their “most explosive confrontation yet”, with Lamb tasked to “unravel one of MI5’s darkest secrets” after a “botched attempt to blackmail the Park” puts Taverner on the offensive. Jay Hunt, creative director, International, Apple TV, expressed delight that “Jackson Lamb and his gang of lovable misfits will be back for an eighth season”.
Meanwhile, Sir Gary Oldman revealed on the Happy Sad Confused podcast that members of the Royal Family are avid viewers. He shared that Queen Camilla is “a big fan”, having personally asked him if the show would be returning. Prince William also expressed his fondness for the character of Jackson Lamb, telling Oldman that “every time you come on the screen, I just want to give you a good wash”, referencing Lamb’s famously crude appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When did Slow Horses season six premiere?
Slow Horses season six premiered on Apple TV+ from 16 September. - Who is the new lead writer for season six?
Gaby Chiappe is the new lead writer for season six, taking over from Will Smith who guided the first five seasons. - How many future seasons of Slow Horses have been confirmed?
Seasons seven and eight of Slow Horses have been confirmed, with season seven already filmed. - Are any members of the Royal Family fans of Slow Horses?
Sir Gary Oldman has revealed that Queen Camilla and Prince William are “big fans” of the series.
