Slow Horses, the Apple TV spy series featuring Gary Oldman, Jack Lowden, and Kristin Scott Thomas, faced uncertainty when Will Smith stepped down as lead writer and de facto showrunner following the completion of season five. Smith’s exit raised concerns about the direction of the critically acclaimed series, which films in Britain and does not operate with a traditional showrunner structure.
Executive producer Doug Urbanski indicated that the show’s collaborative creative foundation allowed the team to navigate Smith’s departure successfully. Urbanski stated that the production team resolved the transition and expressed confidence in the resulting sixth season, noting that some viewers have already praised it as the show’s strongest installment to date. The sixth season is scheduled to premiere Sept. 16.
Slow Horses has grown significantly in recognition over recent years, earning nine Emmy nominations for its fifth season, including nods for Oldman and Lowden as well as outstanding drama series. Urbanski emphasized that while the awards recognition is appreciated, the show is not created with accolades as a primary consideration.
Co-executive producer Gaby Chiappe was appointed as lead writer for season six, which will mark the first season to adapt two books from author Mick Herron’s source material into a single six-episode season. Urbanski explained that combining the sixth and seventh novels made creative sense given their individual lengths, while Herron’s writing continues to serve as the foundation for the series’ dialogue and scenes.
With seven seasons in production or completed and nine books published by Herron, questions remain about the show’s long-term runway. Urbanski stated the creative team is committed to continuing the series as long as the delicate tone can be maintained and all parties—including Apple and Oldman—remain interested. He also noted that Herron continues writing, leaving open the possibility of additional source material becoming available.
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