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Only Murders in the Building has captured audiences not only through its stellar primary cast but also by featuring a diverse array of guest stars each season. Notable appearances in Seasons 3 and 4 include Meryl Streep, while Season 4 also showcased talent such as Zach Galifianakis, Eugene Levy, Eva Longoria, Molly Shannon, Kumail Nanjiani, Melissa McCarthy, and Richard Kind.
One character that left a significant mark was Paul Rudd’s Ben Glenroy, who met a tragic end in Season 3, with his death foreshadowed in the finale of Season 2. Interestingly, Rudd’s return in Season 4 has ignited debates among fans about whether the show has taken an unexpected turn. While some applaud this creative choice as brilliant, others believe it signals a moment when the show has “jumped the shark.”
How Was Paul Rudd Brought Back in Only Murders in the Building?
Initially, viewers were led to believe that Ben Glenroy was killed prior to the events of Season 3. However, he reappeared briefly after a miraculous survival, only to be definitively killed later in the season—an event that served as the crux of Season 3’s narrative. Rudd played a prominent role in flashbacks, revealing the circumstances leading to his demise. The resolution of this murder allowed the characters to celebrate the success of Oliver’s (Martin Short) play, Death Rattle Dazzle.
When Rudd reemerged in a bar during Season 4, where Charles (Steve Martin) and Mabel (Selena Gomez) were investigating the murder of Sazz Patecki (Jane Lynch), viewers were initially confused. To their surprise, he was not reprising his role as Ben, but instead portraying his doppelganger, Glen Stubbins, a stunt double who resembles Ben. The twist reveals that Rudd can showcase a new character with a contrasting personality, characterized by a thick Irish accent and erratic behavior.
Although Glen’s physical appearance mirrors that of Ben, his psychological state diverges significantly. Struggling with the grief of losing his friend and experiencing a career setback, Glen becomes part of a broader narrative about a community of stunt doubles mourning Sazz’s death. His unhinged demeanor is evident, emphasizing his eccentricity while drawing attention to the unresolved status of the murder investigation.
Is This a Jump the Shark Moment?
“Jumping the shark” is a term used to describe a pivotal moment in a show’s storyline that seems bizarre or illogical, marking a decline in quality. Fans are questioning whether the introduction of Glen qualifies as such a moment.
However, it can be argued that Only Murders in the Building thrives on its whimsical approach. The ongoing theme of murders occurring in the same location, the Arconia, allows the main characters—true crime aficionados turned amateur sleuths—to delve into investigations while navigating their quirky lives. This absurdity is part of the charm of the series, and the storyline has consistently embraced outlandish elements.
Given the show’s penchant for humor and exaggeration, Rudd’s transition to portraying a stunt double fits seamlessly with its overall tone. Previous plot lines have included bizarre occurrences, from a character living in a theater attic to uncovering a murderous bassoonist. With this in mind, Rudd’s participation adds a comedic twist, allowing him to maintain a presence in the series despite his character’s previous demise.
It’s also worth noting that the show’s creator, John Hoffman, has hinted that more stunt doubles will appear in the current season. This opens the door for characters played by other guest stars, suggesting a potential for comedic interplay as they navigate their exaggerated personas within the show.
While some viewers express concerns that the influx of celebrity guests may detract from the focus on the core trio, Rudd’s comedic flair could reinforce the season’s dynamic rather than distract from it. His outlandish portrayal of Glen has sparked mixed opinions, but overall, many agree that his wit enhances the viewing experience.
How Does Glenn Fit Into the Only Murders Plot So Far?
Oliver, Mabel, and Charles investigate Sazz’s death by visiting the bar frequented by stunt performers, where they meet Glenn. Initially agitated by their presence, he eventually aids them by introducing them to Dr. Maggie (Veanne Cox), Sazz’s chiropractor. In return for their support, Charles agrees to participate in a ritual honoring Sazz, humorously lying on a pool table as her friends commemorate their lost colleague by playfully smashing a bottle on his head—an awkward tribute that, at one point, accidentally turns serious.
As the plot progresses, the trio supports Glenn’s desire for work in their film project, leading to a series of slapstick demonstrations showcasing his skills. This routine, which includes quirky antics, suggests that Glenn will be a recurring character, further weaving him into the ongoing narrative.
Paul Rudd himself has described acting alongside comedy legends like Martin Short and Steve Martin as a surreal experience, capturing a sense of joy and excitement. His ability to embody the quirky Glenn provides an opportunity for Rudd to continue engaging with the series while contributing to its dynamic storyline. Despite doubts from some fans about the show’s trajectory, it’s clear that Only Murders in the Building thrives on its lighthearted absurdity, maintaining a devoted following in the process. Stream Only Murders in the Building on Hulu.
Source
movieweb.com