Tue Sep 23 22:50:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Will Smith, the lead writer for the hit Apple TV+ spy drama “Slow Horses,” is stepping down after five seasons due to scheduling conflicts. In an interview, Smith discusses his background, his love for spy thrillers, and the challenges of adapting Mick Herron’s novels. He praises the cast, particularly Gary Oldman’s portrayal of Jackson Lamb, noting the actor’s deep understanding of the character. Smith reflects on the show’s unique blend of humor and darkness, its cynical take on British politics, and the surprising ways it resonates with audiences. He is moving on to new writing projects but acknowledges the special experience of working on “Slow Horses” and will miss the show and the cast.

**News Article:**

**”Slow Horses” Writer Will Smith Departs After Five Seasons**

**London, UK** – Will Smith, the lead writer behind the critically acclaimed Apple TV+ spy drama “Slow Horses,” has announced his departure after five seasons. Smith, known for his sharp wit and insightful adaptations of Mick Herron’s bestselling novels, cited scheduling conflicts as the reason for his exit.

“It was either I’m going to suffer or the show is going to suffer, or probably both,” Smith explained. “I’ll miss it, and I wish I could continue, but it’s not something I regret because it wasn’t possible.”

Smith, who previously worked on comedies like “The Thick of It,” brought a unique blend of humor and suspense to “Slow Horses,” drawing praise for his character development and witty dialogue. He spoke highly of the cast, especially Gary Oldman’s portrayal of the slovenly spymaster Jackson Lamb, and credited Oldman with adding depth to the character.

“He feels that Lamb is lower-middle class, grammar school, maybe not Oxbridge, high-level redbrick; smarter than anyone else, constantly underestimated, sort of a chameleon, because he’s such an acute reader of people psychologically … He could chat to a bricklayer or a duke,” Smith commented, praising Oldman’s detailed backstory he added to Lamb.

Gaby Chiappe (“Vera,” “Shetland”) will be taking over as lead writer for future seasons. Smith is already working on adapting two new TV series.

Despite his departure, Smith expressed his fondness for the show and its cast, acknowledging that he “might never get to do a thing as good as this again.” He added that he will be watching it as a fan now.

Season 5 of “Slow Horses” is set to premiere on September 24th on Apple TV+.

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