Meryl Streep Signs On for the Third Season of Only Murders in the Building

Only Murders in the Building Season Three: A Guide to the Award-Winning Cosy Crime Series

By

August 7, 2023

Introduction

Murder mystery series Only Murders in the Building has returned for a highly anticipated third season, and this time it features the legendary Meryl Streep. With a career spanning decades and numerous accolades, Streep’s involvement has garnered excitement among fans and critics alike. For those unfamiliar with the show, this guide will provide a quick overview of the star-studded and critically acclaimed comedy-drama that taps into the popular “cosy crime” genre.

What’s Only Murders in the Building about?

Only Murders in the Building is a comedy-drama that serves as a critique of the culture of true crime as entertainment. The series has garnered multiple Emmy Award and Golden Globe nominations. Set in the exclusive Upper East Side apartment building known as the Arconia, the show follows three New Yorkers – Charles (played by Steve Martin), Oliver (played by Martin Short), and Mabel (played by Selena Gomez) – who bond over their shared obsession with true crime. When a murder occurs in the Arconia, the trio takes it upon themselves to record their own podcast and solve the case.

Where are we up to in season three?

Without giving away any spoilers, the premise for season three was set up in the finale of the second season. In the last few minutes of the previous season, a new character named Ben (played by Paul Rudd) is introduced. As the curtain is about to go up on Oliver’s Broadway show, tensions rise between Ben and Charles, leading to a dramatic cliffhanger. Season three delves into the aftermath of this incident, exploring the mystery surrounding Ben and his connection to the murder.

How does Meryl Streep fit into all of this?

Meryl Streep’s involvement in season three has been shrouded in secrecy. Even Streep herself was kept in the dark about the fate of her character during filming. While details about her role remain undisclosed, the show’s co-creator, John Hoffman, expressed his admiration for Streep’s performance and her curiosity about her character’s trajectory. Streep’s character is introduced as an actor in the Broadway production, adding another layer of intrigue to the series.

What is the “cosy crime” genre?

The “cosy crime” or “cosy mystery” genre refers to a subgenre of crime and thriller novels that take a more whimsical approach to storytelling. Unlike intense and violent crime stories, cosy mysteries focus on lighter, more charming whodunit tales. These stories often take place in small communities where the characters know each other, and amateur sleuths use their knowledge of the town and its gossip to solve mysteries. Only Murders in the Building incorporates many elements of the cosy crime genre, including its quaint setting, warm color palette, and off-stage murder scenes.

Where can I watch Only Murders in the Building?

The first two episodes of season three were released on Disney+ on August 8, with new episodes dropping weekly thereafter. As for the possibility of a fourth season, the show’s co-creator, Hoffman, hinted at the potential for ongoing mysteries and a continuation of the series, noting the rich tradition of murder mysteries that often span multiple volumes.

Conclusion

Only Murders in the Building has captivated audiences with its star-studded cast, clever storytelling, and exploration of the “cosy crime” genre. The addition of Meryl Streep to the cast further enhances the show’s prestige and excitement. As the third season unfolds, viewers can expect more twists, turns, and intriguing mysteries that showcase the talents of this exceptional cast. So, grab your detective hat and join the crime-solving trio as they navigate the captivating world of Only Murders in the Building.