Did Will Smith write Slow Horses? Creator and showrunner of the Apple TV series explored

Will Smith is the writer of Slow Horses (Image via Emmy
Will Smith is the writer of Slow Horses (Image via ABC)

Yes, Will Smith is the creator and showrunner of the drama-thriller on Apple TV+ Slow Horses. Will Smith is a British stand-up comedian, producer, screenwriter, novelist, and actor. Known more for his writing than acting, he gained recognition as a writer for Veep (2012–16) and The Thick of It (2009–2012).

Slow Horses debuted on Apple TV+ in April 2022, based on Mick Herron’s Slough House series of novels, it has since been renewed for multiple seasons.


Will Smith’s Slow Horses wins Emmy for Outstanding Writing

Will Smith, the creator and executive producer of Slow Horses on Apple TV+, won an Emmy for Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series in 2024. Although the show had been recognized for its writing before, this was its first win at the 76th Emmys.

When accepting the award, he humorously referenced actor Will Smith's infamous 2022 Oscars slap, saying:

“First off, relax. Despite my name, I come in peace.”

What is Will Smith’s show Slow Horses about?

Plot of Slow Horses (Image via Apple TV+)
Plot of Slow Horses (Image via Apple TV+)

The main plot of Will Smith’s show revolves around Slough House, where MI5 agents who’ve made major mistakes are sent. The agents, nicknamed "slow horses," are assigned menial tasks under their grumpy boss, Jackson Lamb, who makes their lives miserable.

Despite this, the agents frequently get entangled in high-stakes cases that endanger the country.

Based on Mick Herron's novels, the dark spy comedy gained significant attention during its first two seasons but really took off in season three, resulting in its renewal for season 4. Season three saw an increase in viewership and earned nine Emmy nominations.

Below is the main cast of Slow Horses and their characters:

  • Gary Oldman as Jackson Lamb
  • Jack Lowden as River Cartwright
  • Kristin Scott Thomas as Diana Taverner
  • Sophie Okonedo as Ingrid Tearney
  • Jonathan Pryce as David Cartwright
  • Hugo Weaving as Frank Harkness

Additional information on Will Smith and his show Slow Horses

A still from Slow Horses (Image via Apple TV+)
A still from Slow Horses (Image via Apple TV+)

With only six episodes per season, Slow Horses is easy to follow while still delivering smart, intricate storytelling. Smith’s ability to maintain the essence of Herron’s original novels while translating them into a visual format has been praised, helping the series garner critical acclaim.

Smith’s work on Slow Horses has proven his ability to create both comedic and dramatic content with equal mastery. The show has built a dedicated fanbase, with each season delivering a blend of sharp wit, suspense, and character-driven storytelling.

After winning his award, Will Smith thanked Mick Herron, the author of the original Slough House novels, European TV executive Jay Hunt, his team of writers, and the talented cast, including Gary Oldman, for bringing the characters to life.


The show is currently available to stream on Apple TV+.

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Edited by Sezal Srivastava