Welcome aboard, fellow sleuths! Every time a new season of Only Murders in the Building (2021–) drops, I brace myself. Is this it? The moment the magic fizzles and I’m left holding onto my emotional support podcast mic, whispering “remember season one”? This time, we’re putting that fear to the test! You’re about to eavesdrop on a conversation between me and my managing editor — two die-hard fans here to rave, theorize, and maybe even solve a murder or two.
Terrones: Cassie, I’m putting you on the record now — not as a journalist, just as a prime suspect in loving this show way too much. What is it about OMITB that makes you a repeat offender?
Williams: Oh man, the wit, the coming-together of obscure things, the plot, and Martin Short are just a few reasons why I am obsessed with Only Murders in the Building. I absolutely adore the dynamic between the three main sleuths, Mabel Mora (Selena Gomez), Oliver Putnam (Short), and Charles Haden-Savage (Steve Martin). These three have an effortless chemistry that carries the plot and they never fail to make me chuckle.
I am someone who loves a good murder mystery, but nothing too dark or too obvious — and this one serves all the right beats. It’s cozy and confusing, and keeps you thinking. I am also a sucker for a show that is able to weave threads in a tangled mess the entire season then with one last 30-minute stretch to go, untangles everything in a beautiful, rewarding breath.
Terrones: Cozy and confusing is the best way I’ve heard anyone describe this show, haha! Not to turn this super dark, but did I ever tell you I’ve had close experience with murder? Close enough to understand its devastating effects and the frustration of unanswered questions. Much more information on this, and I might have to kill you (kidding)… But the reason I mention this is that it relates to one of the things I appreciate most about this show. The way our main trio learns about the life of the victim isn’t just clever storytelling — it’s a gentle exploration of grief that isn’t overwhelming. I’m not usually drawn to murder mysteries, but this one leaves me feeling grateful for life and comforted by a strange sense of closure.
Not to mention, the casting is brilliant, and the show knows it. Remember that season 4 episode where Professor Dudenoff (Griffin Dunne) lectures on casting? He references the “Westies” residents in the second Arconia tower, explaining that great casting isn’t just about talent — it’s about understanding the dynamics and personalities of the people involved. And this show does that, especially this season. What a brilliant meta-commentary on the series itself, huh?
Williams: Couldn’t agree more! One of my favourite elements casting-wise is the star-studded entourage that never feels overwhelming. They’re able to tread this line of still keeping the plot fresh and the overall quality of the show intact even as they pump in so much starpower. In earlier seasons, we had Meryl Streep (!!), Paul Rudd, Tina Fey, Eva Longoria, and in this newest season we have Reneé Zellweger as Camila White and Keegan-Michael Key as the mayor.
Terrones: Ahh, Zellweger… I know they already explored the whole Broadway setting with the characters breaking into song and actually producing a musical in season 3 (obviously, my favourite season so far), but if I don’t hear at least a single verse from Chicago (2002)’s very own Roxie Hart, I might stage a major riot.
But enough gushing, Williams — time to grab our Clue boards and get to it. Who killed our beloved doorman, Lester?
Williams: Every theory I’ve cooked up? Toast. A key feature of this show is its constant revolving door of side characters and this season is packed full with elusive billionaires, a mayor too slick for his own good, mob wife Sofia Caccimelio (Teà Leoni), and Mabel’s cryptic old pal Althea/TH?. My initial thought was Caccimelio but honestly, after five episodes, I’m still at a loss and the question lingers: who was in the courtyard with the elevator crank? Either way, these new additions are sure to make for an exciting ride.
Terrones: Can we take a moment to revel in the show’s not-so-subtle dig at the oligarchy? They literally called the billionaires the new mob — and I’m so here for it. A roast dressed in charm, delivered with just enough bite to make you laugh before you wince.
I’m feeling confident in my final guess now. Alas, I won’t confirm nor deny anything, but I have hidden my suspicions as clues in this article. With shadows deepening, motives twisting and sharp wit delivered by a perfectly cast ensemble, this season proves the show still knows how to play the long game.
Here’s to secrets, suspects, the thrill of the chase, and the reader who solves it before the finale — may the best detective win.
