Slow Horses: Apple TV’s Alternative to James Bond

Spy enthusiasts, listen up! While the world might be debating the next James Bond, there’s an Apple TV gem that should definitely be on your radar. Slow Horses, based on Mick Herron’s novels, is a top-rated spy show that’s flying under the radar compared to its peers like The Night Agent and The Agency.

Set in MI5’s Slough House, a less-than-elite sector where failed agents are banished, Slow Horses follows a crew of overlooked talents who find themselves embroiled in high-stakes conspiracies beyond their pay grade. Led by the cantankerous Jackson Lamb (masterfully played by Gary Oldman), the team includes the impulsive River Cartwright (portrayed by Jack Lowden) with a family legacy to uphold.

Intriguingly, River’s character draws parallels to James Bond, especially the younger version seen in the video game 007: First Light. Fans have even suggested Lowden as a possible 007 contender, given his charisma and heroic aura.

What sets Slow Horses apart is its brisk pacing across six episodes per season, adapting Herron’s novels with precision and purpose. The show boasts a star-studded cast featuring the likes of Kristin Scott Thomas, Hugo Weaving, and Olivia Cooke, ensuring that viewers are in for a thrilling ride.

And the accolades speak for themselves: Slow Horses boasts a stellar 97% critical approval rating and an 87% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. With Season 6 slated to premiere on September 16, 2026, now is the perfect time to catch up on the spy show that’s taking the genre by storm. Whether you’re a fan of sharp dialogue, rich characters, or gripping mysteries, Slow Horses promises a binge-worthy experience that’s second to none.