Only Murders in the Building season 5 proves once again that the show’s biggest hook isn’t just the whodunits—it’s the community inside the Arconia. The Hulu hit returns to its New York roots on September 9, 2025, and immediately sets up a battle between “old New York” traditions and “new New York” power players.
A Murder Close to Home
The season begins with tragedy: beloved Arconia doorman Lester Coluca (Teddy Coluca) is discovered dead in the building’s fountain. Police dismiss it as an accident, but Charles (Steve Martin), Oliver (Martin Short), and Mabel (Selena Gomez) aren’t convinced. Their amateur sleuthing soon uncovers grisly clues—including a severed finger—and suspicions that Lester’s death may be tied to the long-missing mobster Nicky Caccimelio (Bobby Cannavale).
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The Rise of the New Mob
While investigating, the trio encounters three billionaire suspects who embody “new New York”: Sebastian “Bash” Steed (Christoph Waltz), an internet mogul chasing immortality; Camila White (Renée Zellweger), a hotel magnate with a taste for beige minimalism; and Jay Pflug (Logan Lerman), a pharmaceutical heir determined to downplay his wealth. These figures clash with the Arconia’s traditions, even suggesting robot doormen as the future of the city. The tension between old-world mobsters and modern billionaires adds thematic depth, even as the mystery itself becomes increasingly convoluted.
Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez in “Only Murders in the Building.” Credit: Disney / Patrick Harbron
The Arconia as a Character
Season 5 continues the series’ tradition of exploring the Arconia as more than a backdrop. The building’s new secrets—from hidden tunnel systems to its storied history with long-time staff—bring a lived-in richness to the narrative. A standout second episode spotlights Lester’s decades at the Arconia, offering poignant insight into overlooked lives. The introduction of new staff like Randall (Jermaine Fowler) expands the ensemble while reinforcing the building’s evolving ecosystem.
Steve Martin and Teddy Coluca in “Only Murders in the Building.” Credit: Disney / Patrick Harbron
Fresh Challenges for the Trio
Beyond the mystery, the season gives each lead actor new ground. Charles grapples with comedic side effects of a new medication, showcasing Steve Martin’s physical comedy chops. Oliver, newly married to Loretta (Meryl Streep), revels in domestic bliss, with Streep delivering multiple accent-filled moments. Meanwhile, Mabel reunites with her middle school friend Althea (Beanie Feldstein), now a pop star, sparking insecurities and self-reflection. These storylines keep the character dynamics lively, even as the murder mystery fades to the background.
Steve Martin, Selena Gomez, and Martin Short in “Only Murders in the Building.” Credit: Disney / Patrick Harbron
A Comforting Return
Critics note that the season’s central mystery doesn’t land with the same punch as earlier years. Yet the magic remains in the banter, camaraderie, and cozy atmosphere. As one review put it, “Only Murders’ mysteries may not be hitting the same as they did in the first season, but the show’s team of amateur detectives and the building they live in are the TV gift that keeps on giving.”
With its premiere on September 9, 2025, and new episodes every Tuesday, Only Murders in the Building returns for season five with style, nostalgia, and the promise of more laughs, secrets, and Arconia lore. For fans, the vibe is as immaculate as ever—and that’s reason enough to tune in.
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