Slow Horses creator shares reasons for leaving Apple TV series
As the drama of "Slow Horses" continues to captivate audiences, a significant transition is unfolding behind the scenes. With the recent conclusion of its fifth season, fans are greeted with the news of creator and showrunner Will Smith stepping away from the series. This development raises questions about the future direction of the show, especially as it gears up for two more seasons. In a recent interview, Smith sheds light on the circumstances surrounding his departure, providing insights into the intense demands of production and the creative process.
Will Smith discusses his departure from Slow Horses
With the fifth season of "Slow Horses" wrapping up, the show's future remains bright, albeit with a new creative direction. Despite Apple TV's renewal for both sixth and seventh seasons, Will Smith’s exit as showrunner marks a pivotal moment for the series.
Smith has previously cited the daunting production schedule as a primary reason for his departure. His latest interview offers a deeper understanding of the factors influencing this decision and his reflections on the creative process involved in producing the series.
In his conversation with TheWrap, Smith stated:
“It wasn’t a decision. It was a practical acceptance of reality…As the deadlines for Season 6 approached, it was clear I was never going to be able to get the scripts done, because it’s kind of a juggling act working on this show. When we were doing the writers’ room for Season 5, it was at the same time we were editing Season 3 and [shooting] Season 4.” […]
“It just hit a point where it was like, ‘I’m not going to be able to do [Season 6]’ and they couldn’t move the schedule around. It was with great sadness on both sides, but I sadly couldn’t keep going.”
Smith's decision to step away completely instead of taking on a reduced role highlights his commitment to the quality of the series. He explained, “I thought it was best to just [step completely away]… I’m not very good at bringing a light touch to things. Something like this is all-consuming for me.”
Transitioning leadership for future seasons
In light of Smith's departure, Apple TV has already appointed two experienced writers from the "Slow Horses" team to take over the showrunner responsibilities. Gabby Chiappe and Ben Vanstone are set to lead Seasons 6 and 7, respectively.
Smith expressed confidence in their abilities to continue the show's legacy, stating:
“It’s an amazing team. It’s an amazing cast. It’s an amazing production. It will [keep going], and Mick is still writing amazing books, so it will continue to fly and keep getting better and better.”
This transition is designed to ensure a seamless continuation of the series, which is based on the popular books by Mick Herron. As the creative torch is passed, both Chiappe and Vanstone are expected to bring their unique perspectives while maintaining the essence of what makes "Slow Horses" resonate with its audience.
Challenges in production: A look behind the scenes
The production of "Slow Horses" has been characterized by a complex interplay of schedules and creative demands. The show operates on a tight six-episode format per season, which can lead to overlapping timelines in writing, shooting, and editing.
Smith elaborated on the challenges faced during production, including the necessity to balance multiple projects simultaneously. This juggling act can be overwhelming and often leads to the need for difficult decisions, as he experienced firsthand.
- Intensive production schedules: The fast-paced environment often requires writers and producers to work on multiple seasons at once.
- Creative burnout: The pressure to maintain high standards can lead to fatigue and a reevaluation of personal limits.
- Collaboration with creative teams: Successful shows depend on effective communication and collaboration among writers, directors, and producers.
- Maintaining quality: Ensuring that each season meets audience expectations while adhering to tight schedules can be a daunting task.
- Future-proofing the series: Preparing for new leadership while ensuring continuity in storytelling and production quality is essential.
What’s next for Slow Horses?
With Season 6 already filmed and a teaser trailer attached to the Season 5 finale, fans of "Slow Horses" can look forward to more thrilling narratives. Expected to premiere in summer or fall 2026, the new season will likely explore fresh storylines while building on the established character arcs.
Fans can catch up on the first five seasons of "Slow Horses" on Apple TV. The streaming service hosts a library of acclaimed shows, ensuring that viewers have plenty of content to enjoy.
As the show progresses under new leadership, it will be interesting to see how the narrative evolves. What are your thoughts on the changes in showrunners for "Slow Horses"? Share your opinions in the comments below.
For those interested in other popular Apple TV series, the platform offers a variety of options, including:
For a deeper dive into the creative process behind "Slow Horses," you can check out this insightful video featuring Will Smith discussing the show's dynamics:
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