In the upcoming fifth episode of the 2025 drama series Smoke, Taron Egerton’s character, Dave Gudsen, and Rafe Spall’s Steven Burke finally confront each other in a scene filled with tension. This meeting, set against the backdrop of an arson investigation, promises to deepen the intrigue surrounding the series’ central conflicts. Taron Egerton Smoke Episode 5 marks a key turning point in the storyline as tensions rise and alliances strain.
Plot Developments and Character Dynamics in Episode 5
According to Apple TV+, Episode 5, titled Size Matters, follows Dave Gudsen preparing to leave town for an arson investigator conference in Leighton. Meanwhile, Michelle Calderone, played by Jurnee Smollett, works to track down Gudsen’s former partner amidst rising suspicions. The episode also introduces Freddy’s pursuit of revenge, adding further fuel to the brewing conflicts.
However, before Gudsen departs, Steven Burke visits the office and engages him in a charged interaction. Burke probes Gudsen about his ties with Calderone, creating an uneasy atmosphere with his probing questions and subtle provocations. The exclusive preview shows Burke casually sitting at Calderone’s desk while making pointed remarks, setting up a psychological chess match between the two men.
Exclusive Preview Reveals Layered Tension in Character Interaction
In a tense minute-long clip, Burke relaxes at Calderone’s desk, despite the obvious hostility that simmers between him and Gudsen. As Gudsen brews coffee, he attempts to lighten the mood by mentioning the upcoming arson conference, saying,
I got this Arson Investigator Conference out in Leighton. A little escape from the everyday.
—Taron Egerton, as Dave Gudsen
Burke responds with sarcasm, highlighting the dangers that have engulfed their jurisdiction:
From two arsonists burning your jurisdiction to the fucking ground?
—Rafe Spall, as Steven Burke
The conversation intensifies when Burke taunts Gudsen by taking Calderone’s chapstick and applying it to himself, followed by the quip,
Great. Well, I mean, at least someone’s working,
which underlines their rivalry and distrust.
The scene reaches a momentary pause with the arrival of Harvey Englehart, played by Greg Kinnear, who diffuses the tension by asking about scheduled meetings. Burke’s evasive response,
No. I, uh, I was in the neighborhood,
hints at underlying complexities in his visit. Eventually, Gudsen offers to take the coffee with him, only for Burke to refuse, commenting,
I never touch the stuff,
leaving Gudsen to reflect on the unusual exchange.
Strong Performances Deepen the Series’ Dark and Complex Tone
This installment continues to showcase Taron Egerton’s ability to convey deep unease and layered emotion through his portrayal of Dave Gudsen. His nuanced and unsettling performance stands out as a highlight of the series so far. Likewise, Rafe Spall delivers a compelling and complex interpretation of Steven Burke, showing a wide range and an authentic American accent that contributes to the character’s realism.
Fans of Apple TV+’s British comedy Trying, where Spall plays a more lighthearted role, may be surprised by his intense turn in Smoke. The growing tension between Gudsen and Burke suggests that their relationship will remain a key focus, especially considering Calderone’s suspicions about both men and her ongoing investigation into Esposito, Gudsen’s former partner.
Anticipation Builds Ahead of Episode 5 Premiere
With the fifth episode of Smoke set to premiere on Friday, July 18, viewers can expect escalating drama and new revelations as the characters navigate shifting loyalties and dangerous confrontations. This particular face-off between Egerton and Spall’s characters will likely have lasting consequences in the unfolding narrative.
New episodes of Smoke continue to be released weekly on Apple TV+. For fans seeking deeper insights, interviews with Dennis Lehane, Taron Egerton, Jurnee Smollett, and others shed light on the creative process behind the series and its intense storytelling approach.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Taron Egerton LGBTQ?
A. After rumors about his sexual orientation, Egerton clarified that he enjoys supporting his gay friends, even though he isn’t gay himself.
Q. Is Taron Egerton LGBT?
A. After his grandmother passed away from motor neuron disease, he became a spokesperson for the Motor Neurone Disease Association. When people questioned his sexuality, Egerton stated that he enjoys supporting his gay friends, even though he is not gay.
