Slow Horses Season 4 Finale Explained: What Happens to Frank?

The Season 4 finale of Slow Horses kicks off with an atmosphere of tension. Emma Flyte, injured and disoriented, receives a distressing phone call from Diana Taverner. Emma reveals that a single assassin has eliminated four members of the Dogs and abducted River, which understandably alarms MI5’s Second Desk.

Simultaneously, River is brought to his biological father, Frank, by Patrice. Utilizing River’s cleverness, the Horses and Dogs manage to pinpoint his whereabouts. Upon their arrival, a high-speed pursuit ensues, ultimately leading to Frank’s capture. However, by the conclusion of Season 4, Taverner and her team are forced to set Frank free.

The finale premiered on Apple TV+ on October 9, 2024. The episode, titled “Hello Goodbye,”features a summary that states:

“Season finale. Impossible decisions are faced and sacrifices are made.”

This episode wraps up many story arcs and character developments from the season while still leaving numerous unresolved threads, hinting at another exciting season for the beloved series.

Slow Horses Season 4 finale: Frank’s Capture and Release

The sixth episode begins with Patrice leading River to a restaurant where Frank awaits. As they meet, Frank acknowledges their father-son connection by greeting River warmly.

Frank attempts to recruit River into his world of assassins, asserting that River is undervalued at Slough House. He presents a mix of personal and practical arguments to entice River into joining him, but River remains unconvinced.

During their conversation, River contacts Louisa using Catherine’s phone, which he’s had since his visit to France. This leads Ho to trace River’s location, a move that the Dogs also manage to accomplish thanks to some CCTV footage.

As the Slow Horses rush to rescue River, the Dogs prepare to shoot him, operating under Whelan’s shoot-to-kill directive. Upon arrival, both teams aim to apprehend Frank, who employs River as a shield in his escape.

A pursuit for Frank follows. Remembering an earlier piece of advice from Frank, River stops fleeing and enters a diner, where he discovers Frank hiding. The latter is quickly apprehended.

In the interrogation room, Frank assures Taverner that she will soon have to release him. True to his claims, Lamb warns Taverner that Frank intends to expose MI5’s cold bodies scandal online if he is not set free within twelve hours.

During the season finale of Slow Horses Season 4, Frank tells Taverner that this is merely the beginning. His insight into MI5’s dubious dealings may lead to significant public uproar if disclosed, indicating that fans can anticipate more of Frank in future seasons.

Marcus’s Tragic End in Slow Horses Season 4 Finale

After bringing River to Frank, Patrice leaves to handle unfinished business — namely, the elimination of David Cartwright. He storms into Slough House, and a fierce gunfight erupts between him and the Horses.

The Slough House agents struggle against Patrice’s skills, with their situation worsening as most of them, apart from Marcus, are unarmed. Marcus attempts to counter Patrice’s onslaught by returning fire.

Meanwhile, the others scramble to locate Lamb’s weapon, which they find just in time. A tense standoff ensues, then Patrice invades Lamb’s office, threatening Shirley with a gun. In a crucial moment, Lamb incapacitates Patrice using a wine bottle.

Upon realizing Marcus has died in the conflict, Shirley nearly kills the captured Patrice but is halted by J.K., who takes it upon himself to deal with Patrice.

What Happens to David?

In the closing scenes of the Slow Horses Season 4 finale, River drives David to a nursing home. With David’s mental health declining, River believes this is the best option, as he cannot dedicate enough time to care for him.

David, however, suspects River is upset for concealing the truth about his father. He pleads with River to take him back home. River reassures his grandfather that he will visit the following day before he departs.

Slow Horses has been confirmed for a fifth season, which will adapt the book titled *London Rules*. The finale of Season 4 gives a glimpse into upcoming developments, notably featuring a collaboration between Taverner and Lamb.

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