Hulu's 'Only Murders' Returns: Doppelgängers, Meta-Comedy, and a Darker Tone

The fourth season of Hulu's acclaimed series "Only Murders in the Building" is set to premiere on August 27, 2024, continuing its weekly episode release schedule. This season promises a blend of familiar meta-humor and a surprising tonal shift, as the show delves deeper into the complexities of storytelling and identity.

The season opens with a shocking twist: the death of Sazz Pataki, played by Jane Lynch, Charles' longtime stunt double. This event sets the stage for a darker, more introspective journey for the main characters. The tragic incident occurs just as the trio - Charles (Steve Martin), Oliver (Martin Short), and Mabel (Selena Gomez) - celebrate solving their previous case.

In a meta twist characteristic of the show, the podcasting sleuths find themselves at the center of a Hollywood adaptation of their adventures. This plot device allows for clever commentary on the entertainment industry, with Molly Shannon portraying an eccentric executive overseeing the project. The casting choices for the in-universe movie provide ample opportunity for self-referential humor, with Eva Longoria, Zach Galifianakis, and Eugene Levy playing exaggerated versions of the main characters.

The theme of doppelgängers permeates the season, extending beyond the movie adaptation. From twin directors to a bar frequented by stunt doubles, the show explores the concept of identity and representation. This motif is further emphasized by the introduction of the "Westies," a group of eccentric Arconia residents who serve as foils to the main characters.

"Isn't that the poor boy from 'Home Alone'?"

The season also promises to address lingering plot holes from the first season, an ambitious undertaking that demonstrates the show's commitment to its overarching narrative. However, the true strength of "Only Murders in the Building" lies not in its mystery-solving, but in its witty observations on fame, friendship, and the nature of storytelling itself.

As the series enters its fourth season, it continues to build on the chemistry between its lead actors. The show's intergenerational appeal, combining the comedic talents of Steve Martin and Martin Short with Selena Gomez's millennial perspective, remains a key factor in its success. This dynamic has contributed to the show's multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations since its 2021 debut.

While the new season takes on a more somber tone, it retains the charm and meta-commentary that have made "Only Murders in the Building" a standout in the crowded streaming landscape. As the characters navigate the blurred lines between reality and fiction, viewers are invited to reflect on the nature of storytelling and the price of fame in the digital age.