On September 30, 2025, fans of Only Murders in the Building were treated to a dramatic shift in tone with the release of Season 5, Episode 6, titled "Flatbush." Known for its clever blend of comedy and whodunit intrigue, the Hulu series took a step back from its signature murder mystery formula in this installment, instead shining a spotlight on the personal challenges and tangled relationships of its beloved trio: Oliver (Martin Short), Mabel (Selena Gomez), and Charles (Steve Martin).
This episode kicks off with the highly anticipated return of Loretta Durkin, played with charm and wit by Meryl Streep. After her apartment is destroyed by a fire—a disruptive event that sends shockwaves throughout the Arconia building—Loretta finds herself homeless and seeking refuge with Oliver. The resulting cohabitation leads to one of the most talked-about moments of the season: a sweet, unexpected kiss between Loretta and Oliver. Fans lit up social media, calling the moment a highlight and praising the chemistry between Streep and Short. According to coverage by Only Murders in the Building's official Instagram, the kiss "thrilled fans" and offered a rare glimpse into Oliver's softer, more vulnerable side.
But Oliver's troubles don't end with a new roommate. The episode sees him grappling with a housing crisis of his own. Threatened with eviction, Oliver’s anxiety is palpable, and the uncertainty surrounding his living situation adds a layer of urgency and stress to the story. As reported by Only Murders in the Building recaps, "Oliver faces a housing crisis with the threat of eviction, adding stress and urgency to the storyline." The possibility of losing his home not only creates tension for Oliver but also impacts his relationships with Mabel, Charles, and the other residents of the Arconia, highlighting how personal issues can ripple through a tight-knit community.
Meanwhile, Mabel is forced to confront her own emotional turmoil with the reappearance of Althea, a friend from her middle school days, played by Beanie Feldstein. Althea’s return stirs up old tensions and unresolved issues, casting a shadow over Mabel’s otherwise composed exterior. As detailed in Only Murders in the Building episode summaries, "Mabel must deal with the return of Althea, bringing old tensions and unresolved issues to the forefront." Their interactions, filled with subtle glances and unspoken words, add emotional depth and complexity to the episode, reminding viewers that sometimes the hardest mysteries to solve are the ones rooted in our past relationships.
Adding to the episode’s suspense is the aftermath of Loretta’s apartment fire. While the blaze is suspicious, the show avoids pointing fingers, instead using the event to explore how disasters—whether accidental or intentional—can bring a community together or drive wedges between neighbors. The fire serves as a catalyst for character-driven suspense, as residents of the Arconia react in their own unique ways. Some rally around Loretta, offering support, while others grow wary, their suspicions quietly simmering beneath the surface. As noted by Only Murders in the Building recaps, "Loretta Durkin's apartment fire causes disruption in the Arconia building, creating suspense and affecting neighborhood dynamics."
But it wouldn’t be Only Murders in the Building without a little mystery. Episode 6 introduces the tantalizing thread of missing evidence—objects and clues that create suspense but stop short of providing answers. No suspects are revealed, and no conclusions are drawn, leaving viewers and characters alike in a state of restless anticipation. According to the episode summary, "Unresolved mysteries, such as the fires and missing evidence, keep viewers guessing about what will happen next." This clever narrative choice keeps the audience hooked, eager to see how the seemingly minor mysteries will eventually tie back into the larger story.
What truly sets "Flatbush" apart, however, is its focus on the social and emotional dynamics of the Arconia’s residents. The episode moves beyond the confines of a traditional murder mystery, instead exploring how personal crises—like Oliver’s potential eviction or Loretta’s sudden homelessness—can test the bonds of friendship and community. Interpersonal tensions flare as characters navigate shifting allegiances, past grievances, and the ever-present pressure of living in close quarters. As summarized by Only Murders in the Building coverage, "The episode emphasizes social dynamics, personal crises, and minor mysteries rather than the central murder plot."
The show’s signature humor is present throughout, with recurring and guest stars delivering moments of levity that balance the episode’s heavier themes. Loretta’s witty banter and Oliver’s theatrical flair provide comic relief, even as the characters face significant challenges. The episode’s ability to blend drama, mystery, and humor is a testament to the strength of its writing and performances. As one review put it, Only Murders in the Building "strikes the ideal balance of mystery, drama, and comedy."
Social media buzzed with reactions following the episode’s airing. Fans were particularly invested in the growing tension between Mabel and Althea, as well as the blossoming romance between Loretta and Oliver. Many praised the show for its skillful balancing act, keeping viewers engaged in both the characters’ personal journeys and the overarching mysteries. One fan commented, "The episode kept me invested in the character's personal storyline and the main mystery by skillfully balancing suspense with humor."
Yet, for all its dramatic turns and unresolved questions, "Flatbush" is ultimately a meditation on vulnerability. Whether it’s the threat of losing a home, the pain of rekindled old wounds, or the uncertainty of what tomorrow might bring, the episode reminds viewers that the most compelling stories often emerge from the everyday struggles we all face. The Arconia’s residents may be amateur detectives, but in this episode, they’re also just people—flawed, funny, and fiercely human.
By the time the credits roll, viewers are left with more questions than answers. Who set Loretta’s apartment on fire? What secrets does the missing evidence hold? And will the main trio’s friendship survive the mounting tensions and crises? As the season continues, one thing is certain: Only Murders in the Building remains a must-watch, skillfully weaving together the threads of mystery, drama, and comedy to create a tapestry that’s as unpredictable as it is entertaining.
Sometimes, the real intrigue isn’t about solving a murder—it’s about discovering what makes us tick, and how we come together when everything seems to be falling apart.
