Slow Horses Finale Looms as River and Sid's Improvised Kiss Signals Romantic Turn

Key points

• The kiss between River and Sid was improvised by actors Jack Lowden and Olivia Cooke, according to co-producer Gaby Chiappe.
• Diana Taverner faces a committee hearing regarding her budget constraints and the unauthorized assassination in Kazan.
• Sid escapes her captors using a license plate trick, leading to a rescue by River.
• The season finale is scheduled for October 21, with Chiappe warning of a high body count.
• Taverner attempts to trade Sid to the GRU to de-escalate tensions, but River intervenes to prevent her transfer.

Background

Slow Horses has been marked by significant character deaths, including J.K. Coe in the previous episode and David Cartwright in the season premiere. Sid Baker was presumed dead in Season 1 but returned in Season 6 Episode 3. The series is based on Mick Herron's novels and is known for its gritty tone and high stakes.

How outlets are covering it

TV Insider emphasizes the improvisation of the romantic moment and Chiappe's approval of it. Vulture focuses on Taverner's political incompetence and the suspenseful chase sequences, rating the episode four stars. Decider highlights the brutal cold open and the death of the assassin Jim, noting the show's pattern of killing core characters. All sources agree on the high stakes and the impending finale, but differ in their focus on romance versus political intrigue and action.

Why it matters

The improvised kiss signals a significant shift in the River-Sid relationship, adding emotional depth to the action-heavy narrative. The finale's promise of a high body count raises the stakes for remaining characters, making the outcome uncertain and engaging for viewers.

What to watch

The Season 6 finale airs on October 21 on Apple TV. Chiappe hints that many characters may die, and the outcome of the confrontation in Taverner's vacation home will be a key focus.