Spoiler Alert: Insights from “Only Murders in the Building” Season 4, Episode 4, “The Stunt Man”
In an unexpected twist, series showrunner John Hoffman sheds light on Paul Rudd’s return in the fourth episode of “Only Murders in the Building” Season 4. Initially introduced in the Season 2 finale, Rudd portrayed Ben Glenroy, whose untimely demise fueled the mystery of Season 3. However, in this latest season, Charles-Haden Savage (Steve Martin), Oliver Putnam (Martin Short), and Mabel Mora (Selena Gomez) find themselves in a bar frequented by stunt workers called Concussions, where they encounter a familiar face—Ben’s doppelgänger.
The Return of Paul Rudd: A Behind-the-Scenes Look
In a conversation with TheWrap, Hoffman explained the rationale for Rudd’s comeback, this time as Ben’s Irish stunt double, Glenn Stubbins. Hoffman revealed that Rudd improvised a segment of a eulogy for Sazz Pataki (Jane Lynch), referencing Steve-O and Lucky Charms. This spontaneous addition so impressed Hoffman that he opted to forego parts of the scripted dialogue in favor of Rudd’s improvisation. Here’s what Hoffman had to say:
“I love Paul Rudd, and Paul Rudd loves being on the show. We’re exploring a theme about stunt doubles this season. Considering Ben Glenroy’s death last season, the question of his stunt double naturally arose. We have doppelgängers throughout the season, and it felt like the perfect opportunity to bring Paul back. This storyline parallels beautifully with Charles and Sazz, creating a poignant moment. Plus, Glenn’s character has more to reveal in upcoming episodes.”
Implications of Paul Rudd’s Return for Season 4
The Introduction of Glenn Stubbins
The introduction of Rudd’s character, Glenn, signifies much more than a mere cameo. Having known Sazz, Glenn provides Charles, Oliver, and Mabel with a gateway into the exclusive world of stunt doubles. His connections and insights could prove crucial as they probe deeper into Sazz’s mysterious death. Furthermore, Glenn’s future appearances seem likely, thanks to a promise of work on a Hollywood film about the trio—a promise he seems eager to pursue.
By introducing Glenn, the series cleverly maintains Rudd’s influence despite Ben’s resolved storyline from Season 3. Rudd has consistently featured in every season since Season 2. Although Glenn’s role may not be as central as Ben’s was, his presence remains significant. While Glenn appears helpful, his true motives remain a question mark.
Our Perspective on Paul Rudd’s New Role
A Brilliant Reintroduction Strategy
Rudd’s new character exemplifies the show’s knack for keeping each season vibrant and innovative, while still honoring its history. Glenn’s character doesn’t overshadow Ben’s narrative but rather enriches the unfolding mystery. Through Glenn, Charles, Oliver, and Mabel gain fresh insights into the stunt double universe, which could be pivotal in solving Sazz’s murder. While Glenn isn’t expected to become a series regular, his ongoing involvement promises to add intrigue and depth to the story.
Source: TheWrap
Only Murders in the Building
- Comedy
- Mystery
- Crime
Starring Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez, Only Murders in the Building follows an unlikely trio of true crime fans living in an affluent New York apartment building, who attempt to solve the murder of one of the building's residents and document it on their own true crime podcast. The three amateur sleuths soon find out that real crime solving isn't as simple or as glamorous as their favorite podcasts make it seem, and that all of their lives are inextricably linked to the mysteries they are pursuing.