Only Murders in the Building has become as seasonal and reliable as pumpkin spice lattes and fall leaves. Since its 2021 debut, the Hulu hit has thrived on a formula that blends classic comedy, twisting mysteries, and high-profile guest stars, carried by the impeccable timing of its core trio: Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez.
A Familiar but Comforting Formula
If you believe the series has overstayed its welcome, Season 5 won’t change your mind. For the first time, it feels like maybe the Arconia mystery train should slow down. Yet, the undeniable charm of the leads keeps things watchable. This season balances familiar beats with a few bold new swings.
The Setup: Murder and Missing Mobsters
Season 5 picks up after the shocking fountain death of doorman Lester (Teddy Coluca). Officially ruled an accident, the OMITB podcast team suspects foul play, especially after discovering something suspicious in a leftover shrimp cocktail from Oliver’s wedding.
Meanwhile, Sofia Caccimelio (Tea Leoni) hires the trio to find her missing husband, a mobster played by Bobby Cannavale. The big question: how are the mobster’s disappearance and doorman’s death connected?
Guest Stars and Social Commentary
This season quickly ramps up with the introduction of Logan Lerman, Renée Zellweger, and Christoph Waltz as billionaire disruptors. Waltz plays a tech mogul riffing on Elon Musk, leaning into themes of AI surveillance and automation. Lester is even replaced by a robot doorman, LESTR, offering a satirical take on technology’s role in human lives.
While the tech commentary feels surface-level, it provides a sharp contrast to the timeless humor of Martin and Short, comedians who have worked together for four decades. The result: moments of meta commentary on comedy’s survival in the age of AI.
Too Many Characters, Not Enough Time
Like Season 4, this season sometimes feels overcrowded:
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Beanie Feldstein as Mabel’s pop star friend doesn’t quite land, though it highlights Gomez’s strongest season yet.
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Da’Vine Joy Randolph remains an MVP in every scene.
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Keegan-Michael Key and Jermaine Fowler shine but are underutilized.
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Dianne Wiest as Lester’s widow brings depth, especially when paired with Meryl Streep.
Despite the clutter, the performances are strong enough to keep things engaging.
Verdict
Only Murders in the Building Season 5 may not reinvent itself, but it doesn’t have to. It remains comfort TV, powered by a blend of fast-paced mystery, sharp comedy, and A-list talent. Could it be better? Yes. But as comfort food TV, “good enough” still works.
Nine episodes were screened for review. The season premieres today, September 9th, on Hulu.
