Apple TV’s series Slow Horses, featuring Gary Oldman in the lead, has emerged as an unprecedented streaming success, challenging even the iconic James Bond franchise. Premiering in 2022, the show follows a group of disgraced MI5 agents relegated to mundane desk duties who discover a real threat to the United Kingdom, forcing them back into action. Slow Horses’ unique narrative and star-studded cast, including Kristin Scott Thomas, have driven its remarkable popularity.
Critical Acclaim and Award Achievements
Based on Mick Herron’s novels, Slow Horses has steadily gained critical acclaim, securing two Primetime Emmy Awards to date: Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series awarded to Adam Randall in 2025, and Outstanding Writing recognized to Will Smith in 2024. Overall, the series has received 14 Emmy nominations, with Gary Oldman earning two nods for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. The show’s acclaim is also reflected by its 97% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Record-Breaking Longevity in Streaming Rankings
Approaching the season 5 finale set for October 29, Slow Horses has spent a remarkable 503 non-consecutive days in Apple TV’s domestic Top 10 charts for television, according to tracking by FlixPatrol. Anticipation for the upcoming conclusion is expected to increase viewership further, although the momentum may taper following the finale. This sustained presence highlights the show’s consistency in maintaining audience interest across multiple seasons.
Renewals and Future Prospects for Slow Horses
After a slow initial reception, the show’s growing recognition has translated into renewed confidence from Apple TV, with seasons 6 and 7 already confirmed, including the completion of season 6’s production. This extension underscores the platform’s commitment to continuing the story of the “Slow Horses,” responding to ongoing viewer demand for more espionage drama with a distinctive tone.
Gary Oldman’s Continued Dedication to the Series
Following his Best Lead Actor Oscar for 2017’s Darkest Hour, Gary Oldman initially balanced film roles such as those in Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard and Oppenheimer while Slow Horses was gaining traction. Now, he appears to be concentrating predominantly on Slow Horses and related projects, including video games connected to the series, signaling a strategic focus on this franchise moving forward.
Slow Horses’ Place Amidst Emerging Spy Thrillers
As the James Bond franchise, now under Amazon MGM’s direction with Denis Villeneuve involved, prepares for Bond 26 and potentially new streaming content, Slow Horses could face direct competition. Unlike traditional spy thrillers, Slow Horses offers an “anti-James Bond” approach, blending dark comedy with espionage. Its success validates a shift toward unconventional and subversive storytelling within the genre, resonating strongly with audiences seeking fresh narratives.
Character Dynamics and Ensemble Cast
The series centers around Jackson Lamb, portrayed by Gary Oldman, the embattled yet cunning leader of the MI5 team, with Jack Lowden playing River Cartwright, another pivotal character. Together, they navigate complex threats while delivering moments of tension, irony, and dark humor that distinguish Slow Horses from typical spy dramas.
“Slow Horses is a unique breath of fresh air in the espionage genre, blending grit with wit in a way few shows do.” – Will Smith, Writer
“The show’s long run in the charts reflects how audiences crave stories about the less glamorous side of intelligence work.” – Adam Randall, Director
