The 78th Primetime Emmys proved a lot of things: People really love Widow’s Bay, and Apple has a stranglehold on voters, with Pluribus taking home wins as well as the little show that could, Slow Horses.
Over the past three Emmy telecasts, voters have awarded Will Smith’s (not THAT one) show with three Emmys, one each year: Drama Writing in 2024 and Drama Directing in 2025 and 2026. So, if Slow Horses can break into the writing and directing categories three years in a row, why can’t it win in other places? Nine nominations this year speaks to some serious love from voters.
Having caught up to the new Slow Horses season, which is very enjoyable, I have a few thoughts on this.
Thoughts on Slow Horses Season 6 and Why It Hasn’t Showed Up Big at the Emmys
First, it’s a total ensemble show. The same way people can’t choose between The Pitt men and women in the supporting categories, voters probably have the same issue here, with actors like Kristin Scott Thomas and Saskia Reeves delivering strong performances, in addition to other Season 6 actors who might be spoilers! I even debate whether Jack Lowden isn’t the lead and Gary Oldman isn’t the supporting actor.
Second, Gary Oldman is 100% delivering a comedic performance. His quips are hilarious, and even in the most dramatic moments, he provides levity. Of course, the comedy-versus-drama debate is topical across shows like Widow’s Bay and The Bear, but it’s pretty rare for a comedic performance to exist in a drama. (Oldman plays opposite a child this season, and it’s pretty funny.)
Finally, its episodes typically drop pretty early within the new Emmy window. After all, Season 6 drops today, and the Emmy Awards were just on Monday. It’s hard for an understated little British spy show with only six episodes to stay top of mind for eight to nine months. (Yet, funnily enough, Season 1 dropped in spring of 2022, right in the Emmy sweet spot, and that year it received no nominations.)
Slow Horses Season 6 Emmy Chances
There are a few surprises in this new season, which finds Jackson Lamb (Oldman) trying to find the person who’s knocking off all the former Slow Horses. But in terms of possible nominations, here’s where I think it will land at the Emmys 2027:
Outstanding Drama Series
Outstanding Drama Actor (Gary Oldman)
Outstanding Drama Supporting Actor (Jack Lowden)
Outstanding Music Composition
Outstanding Production Design for a Narrative Contemporary Program (there’s a shot this season of a house that’s reminiscent of Parasite)
Slow Horses Season 6 drops on Apple on September 16.
What about olivia cooke? Does she have a chance of getting a nomination for supporting actress or guest actress?
I didn’t want to spoil that, but she’s great in the new season! She’s great in most everything she does. Would love to see her get in!