The Arconia’s favorite sleuthing trio is back—and the stakes are higher than ever. Hulu’s hit murder mystery comedy Only Murders in the Building returns for its highly anticipated fifth season, with production already underway and a premiere expected in August 2025.
With returning favorites, new celebrity faces, and a fresh case that shakes the heart of the building, Season 5 promises to blend the show’s signature wit with deeper emotional stakes and fresh intrigue.
Season 5 Overview
Following the critical and commercial success of its fourth season, Hulu officially renewed Only Murders in the Building for Season 5 in early 2025. Filming began in New York City in March, with all signs pointing to a summer 2025 release—likely in August, consistent with the show’s previous seasonal debuts.
The upcoming season will span 10 episodes and continue to follow the unique blend of cozy crime-solving and showbiz satire that has made the series a cultural phenomenon. Once again, the narrative will weave together a central murder mystery, character-driven subplots, and laugh-out-loud moments, all anchored by the chemistry of its leads.
Season 5 Plot: A New Murder in Familiar Territory
Season 4 ended on a gut-punch cliffhanger: the discovery of Arconia’s longtime doorman, Lester, floating dead in the building’s fountain. Now, Season 5 opens with Charles, Mabel, and Oliver diving into the mystery behind Lester’s murder—a case that could be more personal than any they’ve tackled before.
Adding another layer to the drama is Sofia Caccimelio, a sharp-tongued, mysterious widow played by Téa Leoni. She turns to Charles and Mabel to help uncover the truth about her husband’s recent death, one she believes is part of a growing web of secrets involving the city’s high society and long-buried Arconia history.
According to co-creator John Hoffman, the season will explore “past versus present New York,” offering commentary on generational shifts in the city while tying it all back to the building’s own hidden legacy. The central mystery is expected to delve deeper into the lives of supporting characters, including Arconia’s long-time residents, revealing how the building itself may be holding more secrets than anyone realized.
Cast: Fan Favorites and A-List Newcomers
Returning for Season 5 are the iconic trio:
- Steve Martin as Charles-Haden Savage
- Martin Short as Oliver Putnam
- Selena Gomez as Mabel Mora
Also confirmed to return are:
- Meryl Streep as Loretta Durkin, now Oliver’s wife
- Jane Lynch as Sazz Pataki (in flashbacks)
- Michael Cyril Creighton as Howard
- Jackie Hoffman as Uma
- Da’Vine Joy Randolph as Detective Donna Williams
The new season also welcomes a star-studded cast of guest stars:
- Renée Zellweger – in a recurring mystery role
- Christoph Waltz – expected to bring a darker edge to the ensemble
- Logan Lerman, Keegan-Michael Key, Beanie Feldstein, and Jermaine Fowler – all joining in undisclosed but reportedly pivotal roles
This all-star lineup adds gravitas and comic flair, raising expectations for the most dynamic season yet.
Behind-the-Scenes Highlights
Filming for Season 5 has already sparked buzz among fans and tabloids alike. Meryl Streep and Martin Short were spotted sharing a romantic on-set kiss, suggesting Oliver and Loretta’s relationship will be a major subplot. Meanwhile, Selena Gomez gave fans a behind-the-scenes look via TikTok, featuring a playful dance with her co-stars set to her new single, “Bluest Flame”—a move that doubled as subtle promotion for her music career and the upcoming season.
The show’s creators have also teased that the podcast-within-a-show format will continue to evolve, possibly incorporating video or live elements to reflect real-world podcast trends.
Awards and Recognition
Only Murders in the Building continues to rack up awards and critical acclaim. The series recently took home the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series, and Martin Short received the SAG Award for Outstanding Male Actor in a Comedy Series. The show’s consistent presence in major awards conversations has cemented it as one of the most successful original comedies in Hulu’s history.
Where to Watch
If you’re new to the show or need a refresher, all four seasons of Only Murders in the Building are currently available for streaming on Hulu. Season 5 is expected to drop weekly starting August 2025, continuing the platform’s successful summer rollout strategy.
Season 5 promises an emotional, suspenseful, and highly entertaining ride. With a fresh case, expanded cast, and more secrets buried within the Arconia’s walls, Only Murders in the Building continues to be one of TV’s most engaging whodunits.
Only Murders in the Building: Season 4 Recap
The hit comedy-murder series “Only Murders in the Building” returns with its highly anticipated fourth season. Fans of Charles, Oliver, and Mabel’s amateur sleuthing adventures have been eagerly waiting to see how the trio tackles their next case. Season 4 of “Only Murders in the Building” premiered on August 27, 2024, on Hulu with new episodes releasing weekly.
This season follows our beloved podcast hosts as they investigate the shocking murder of Sazz Pataki, Charles’ longtime stunt double played by Jane Lynch. The death occurred at the end of Season 3, setting up a personal connection to the case that will test Charles (Steve Martin) in particular. The show continues to blend comedy and mystery as the trio digs deeper into the circumstances surrounding Sazz’s death.
Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez return to their roles as the unlikely friends united by their love of true crime and their tendency to find themselves in the middle of real murders. Season 4 maintains the show’s signature charm while introducing new twists and guest stars to keep viewers guessing throughout the investigation.
Season 4 Recap and Key Details:
- The Murder: Season 4 focused on the murder of Charles’s stunt double and friend, Sazz Pataki (Jane Lynch). The killer was revealed to be Marshall P. Pope/Rex Bailey, Sazz’s former protégé, who stole her screenplay.
- The Big Twist: In a shocking turn of events, the shot that ultimately killed Marshall came from none other than Jan (Amy Ryan), Charles’s ex-girlfriend and Season 1 villain, who had been hiding in the Arconia’s secret passageways.
- Hollywood Plot: The season also explored the trio’s journey to Hollywood for a potential film adaptation of their hit podcast, introducing guest stars like Eugene Levy, Eva Longoria, and Zach Galifianakis playing fictionalized versions of themselves as the actors portraying Charles, Mabel, and Oliver.
- New Mystery for Season 5: The Season 4 finale ended with the discovery of the Arconia’s beloved doorman, Lester, dead in the courtyard fountain, setting up the new mystery for Season 5. Téa Leoni was also introduced as Sofia Caccimelio, whose missing husband has ties to the Arconia, hinting at a connection to the new murder.
Key Takeaways
- Season 4 premiered on August 27, 2024, with episodes releasing weekly on Hulu.
- The new season centers on solving the murder of Charles’ stunt double Sazz Pataki.
- The original trio of Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez returns to continue their amateur detective work.
Season 4 of “Only Murders in the Building” premiered on August 27, 2024, on Hulu, taking viewers on a fresh mystery journey with our favorite trio of amateur sleuths. The new season brings exciting plot developments, introduces notable guest stars, and welcomes back familiar faces.
Plot Development and Themes
The fourth season follows Charles, Oliver, and Mabel as they tackle a new murder mystery that extends beyond their usual Arconia setting. The story begins with “Once Upon a Time in the West,” taking the trio to Hollywood where a film adaptation of their podcast is being produced.
This season explores themes of fame, authenticity, and the blurring lines between fiction and reality. The Hollywood backdrop creates new challenges for our podcasters as they navigate the entertainment industry while still trying to solve crimes.
Episodes release weekly on Tuesdays, with a total of ten episodes planned for the season. The structure maintains the show’s signature blend of comedy and mystery, while expanding the world beyond New York.
The murder plot this season connects to their previous investigations, creating a more complex narrative web that tests the trio’s detective skills and friendship.
New Characters and Guest Stars
Season 4 boasts an impressive lineup of new faces. Eugene Levy joins the cast in a significant role, alongside Eva Longoria and Molly Shannon who bring fresh energy to the series.
Zach Galifianakis and Melissa McCarthy make notable appearances, adding their comedic talents to the already stellar ensemble. Their characters become entangled in the season’s central mystery.
Kumail Nanjiani takes on a role connected to the Hollywood production of the trio’s podcast story. His character adds an interesting layer to the show’s exploration of how true crime stories are adapted and commercialized.
The guest stars don’t just serve as cameos – they’re integral to the season’s plot, with each bringing distinct personalities that challenge and complement the main characters in unexpected ways.
Returning Cast Members
Selena Gomez, Steve Martin, and Martin Short return as the core trio – Mabel Mora, Charles-Haden Savage, and Oliver Putnam. Their chemistry continues to be the heart of the show as they face new challenges.
Tina Fey reprises her role as podcast rival Cinda Canning, while Meryl Streep returns following her well-received appearance in Season 3. Their characters gain additional depth and development this season.
Da’Vine Joy Randolph returns as Detective Williams, becoming more involved in the trio’s investigation. Her official position creates interesting tension with their amateur sleuthing.
Jane Lynch appears again as Charles’ stunt double Sazz Pataki, bringing continuity to the expanding “Only Murders” universe. Paul Rudd and Cara Delevingne also make return appearances, connecting past storylines to the current mystery.
Production and Release Details
Season 4 of “Only Murders in the Building” premiered on August 27, 2025, with Hulu handling distribution duties. The production expanded beyond the familiar Arconia setting to embrace new creative directions.
Filming Locations and Schedule
Production for Season 4 took place across multiple locations, significantly departing from previous seasons. While the Arconia (specifically the West Tower) remained the show’s anchor, filming expanded to Los Angeles for portions of the season. This bicoastal approach reflected the storyline’s Hollywood connections.
Principal photography began in January 2025 and wrapped in late spring. The season follows the investigation into Sazz Pataki’s (Jane Lynch) murder, Charles-Haden Savage’s stunt double. This Hollywood connection created narrative opportunities to explore new settings beyond the familiar New York backdrop.
Richard Kind joined the cast alongside returning favorites like Michael Cyril Creighton and Amy Ryan, bringing fresh dynamics to the established ensemble.
Anticipation and Promotional Efforts
Hulu launched an extensive marketing campaign in June 2025, beginning with a teaser trailer that highlighted the season’s Hollywood elements. Full trailers followed in July, showcasing the Broadway connections that remain central to Oliver Putnam’s character arc.
Fan anticipation built steadily through strategic social media reveals, including behind-the-scenes content featuring the lead trio – Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez.
Press events included a red carpet premiere in New York City, followed by a Los Angeles screening event that emphasized the season’s bicoastal storyline. The promotional strategy cleverly played up the “murder mystery goes Hollywood” angle that defines this season’s unique approach.
Viewing Platforms and Availability
“Only Murders in the Building” Season 4 maintains its home on Hulu for U.S. viewers, while international audiences can access it through Disney+ in select regions. The release follows a weekly episode schedule rather than a full-season drop.
New episodes release every Tuesday, with the first two episodes premiering simultaneously on August 27. The full season consists of ten episodes, with the finale scheduled for October 22.
The streaming platforms offer all previous seasons for viewers looking to catch up before diving into the new season. Hulu also provides enhanced viewing options, including behind-the-scenes features and commentary tracks for premium subscribers.
Both Hulu and Disney+ have promoted the series as one of their flagship original productions for 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
Season 4 of Only Murders in the Building brings many exciting changes and developments. Fans have been eagerly waiting for answers about the upcoming season.
What is the scheduled premiere date for season 4 of Only Murders in the Building?
Season 4 of Only Murders in the Building premiered on Tuesday, August 27, 2024. The show continues its tradition of weekly episode releases rather than dropping all episodes at once.
New episodes come out each Tuesday following the premiere date. This release schedule allows fans to discuss theories and developments throughout the season.
Are there any new cast members joining Only Murders in the Building for its fourth season?
Season 4 features several new cast additions. Notable newcomers include Meryl Streep returning after her season 3 appearance, and Eugene Levy joining the ensemble.
Other additions include Zach Galifianakis, Melissa McCarthy, and Eva Longoria. These actors bring fresh energy to the show’s already stellar cast lineup.
Can viewers expect a fifth season of Only Murders in the Building?
Hulu has not officially confirmed a fifth season as of March 2025. However, the show continues to enjoy strong viewership and critical acclaim.
The series creators have expressed interest in continuing the story beyond season 4. Final renewal decisions typically come after the current season concludes and ratings are evaluated.
Have any trailers or teasers been released for the upcoming season of Only Murders in the Building?
Yes, Hulu released an official trailer for season 4 ahead of the August 27 premiere. The trailer showcases the trio’s new murder investigation and teases the Hollywood adaptation storyline.
Additional promotional materials including character posters and behind-the-scenes content were also shared on social media platforms. These materials helped build anticipation for the new season.
How many episodes will season 4 of Only Murders in the Building have?
Season 4 consists of 10 episodes, maintaining the same episode count as previous seasons. This follows the established pattern from seasons 1-3.
Each episode runs approximately 30 minutes in length. The finale is scheduled to air in late October 2024.
Will there be any notable guest appearances in the new season of Only Murders in the Building?
Season 4 features several high-profile guest stars. Meryl Streep returns to her role as Loretta Durkin, while Eugene Levy appears in a mysterious new role.
The season also includes appearances by Eva Longoria, Kumail Nanjiani, and Molly Shannon. The series continues its tradition of attracting top talent for guest roles.
