Slow Horses has returned with its fifth season. This time, the spotlight shifts from Gary Oldman’s Jackson Lamb to Christopher Chung’s Roddy Ho. While the Apple TV+ spy drama has long been praised for blending dark humor with espionage intrigue, critics are divided. They question whether the bold narrative shift succeeds in revitalizing the series or risks derailing it.
Roddy Ho Steps Into the Lead
Season 5 places Roddy Ho at the heart of the story. The once-comedic character evolves into a fully fleshed-out lead, forcing viewers to take him seriously for the first time. Christopher Chung’s portrayal has been praised for capturing both Roddy’s arrogance and his vulnerability. This gives the series a new layer of depth.
A Polarizing Critical Response
Not all critics are convinced the shift works. The Guardian described the season as “a TV mess,” arguing that even Gary Oldman’s consistently strong performance as Jackson Lamb cannot salvage the weaker writing and tonal inconsistencies. The review suggests that focusing on Roddy Ho may alienate longtime fans. These are fans who tuned in for Oldman’s acerbic presence.
By contrast, Yahoo Entertainment called season 5 “invigorating.” It highlights how the show’s pivot brings fresh energy to a formula that risked becoming predictable. This perspective frames the season as a necessary reinvention. It keeps the series relevant in a crowded TV landscape.
Slow Horses in the Broader TV Landscape
TV Insider placed the show in the context of the fall 2025 television lineup. They note how Slow Horses competes with returning franchises and reality juggernauts. Despite mixed reviews, the series continues to stand out. This is due to Oldman’s star power and the audacious choice to hand the narrative reins to Roddy Ho.
What’s Next for the Series?
While a sixth season has not been confirmed in these reports, the gamble of centering on Roddy Ho raises questions about the show’s future trajectory. Will audiences embrace this unlikely hero, or will they clamor for more of Lamb’s cutting remarks and chaotic leadership? What is clear is that Slow Horses season 5 focuses on Roddy Ho’s storyline, and the creative team has committed to shaking up expectations rather than repeating past successes.
Ultimately, Slow Horses season 5 is proving to be one of the show’s most divisive outings yet. Some viewers may relish the reinvention, while others see it as a misstep. Either way, the series continues to spark conversation—a hallmark of any long-running television drama.
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