Only Murders In The Building Is A Love Letter To New York Wrapped In A Murder Mystery

Source: Hulu

About The Show

Few shows capture the essence of New York City quite like Only Murders in the Building. With its charming mix of comedy, mystery, and heartfelt storytelling, the series perfectly blends old-school Manhattan elegance with the modern true crime obsession.

Created by Steve Martin and John Hoffman, the Hulu hit follows three unlikely friends—played by Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez—who bond over their love of true crime podcasts and their shared residence in the Arconia, a fictional but undeniably classic Upper West Side apartment building. As they investigate murders within their own building and document their findings in a podcast, the trio’s dynamic keeps the series both hilarious and deeply engaging.

Quintessentially NYC

At its heart, Only Murders in the Building is quintessentially New York. It revels in the quirks of Manhattan living, from its eccentric residents to its historic pre-war buildings filled with secrets. The show films at real NYC establishments, giving it a level of authenticity that resonates with locals and lovers of the city alike. One notable example is Mansion Diner on the Upper East Side, which, while rebranded for the series, remains unmistakably the same beloved neighborhood spot. The show’s settings aren’t just backdrops—they’re characters in their own right, adding to the immersive, lived-in feel of the series. Whether it’s a cozy diner booth, a dimly lit jazz club, or the grand hallways of the Arconia, every location reinforces the show’s deep affection for New York.

Casting

The chemistry between Martin, Short, and Gomez is the heart of Only Murders in the Building. Their generational differences make for sharp comedic moments, while their evolving friendship adds unexpected warmth to the whodunit format. The series also boasts an impressive rotating cast of guest stars, from Nathan Lane to Meryl Streep, further cementing its place in the cultural zeitgeist.

As the mysteries grow more elaborate and the podcast garners more attention, the stakes rise, but the show never loses its wit or charm. With four seasons under its belt and a fifth on the way, Only Murders in the Building continues to prove that New York City—and its many mysteries—will always be the perfect setting for a great story.