Gary Oldman's 'Slow Horses' Season 5 Pays Tribute to Heath Ledger's Iconic Joker (2025)

The world of entertainment is full of surprising connections, and the latest one will leave you in awe. Prepare to be amazed as we uncover a hidden homage in the Apple TV series 'Slow Horses' that will make fans of 'The Dark Knight' do a double take!

A Pencil-Pushing Tribute

In a recent episode of 'Slow Horses,' season 5 to be precise, a subtle yet brilliant nod to Heath Ledger's iconic Joker performance was unveiled. Gary Oldman, who starred alongside Ledger in 'The Dark Knight,' seemingly paid tribute to his late co-star in a scene that will leave viewers scratching their heads in delight.

The scene in question, from the episode titled 'Incommunicado,' sees Aimee-Ffion Edwards' character, Shirley Dander, escape a dangerous encounter and meet up with Oldman's Jackson Lamb and Christopher Chung's Roddy Ho. Ho's question about note-taking prompts a response that sends shivers down the spine of any 'Dark Knight' enthusiast. Oldman's character, the cynical spy Jackson Lamb, delivers a line that echoes the infamous pencil trick from the Joker's arsenal.

The Magic of Homage

In 'The Dark Knight,' the Joker's pencil trick is a memorable moment where he jams a pencil into a countertop and promises to make it disappear. This leads to a brutal encounter with a mob lackey, leaving a lasting impression on viewers. The writers of 'Slow Horses' have either intentionally crafted a clever callback or stumbled upon a coincidental parallel, but either way, it's a delightful connection between these two projects starring Gary Oldman.

Whether intentional or not, this homage is a testament to the enduring impact of 'The Dark Knight.' It showcases how a simple reference can create a unique link between two seemingly unrelated works.

A Legacy That Endures

'The Dark Knight' remains a masterpiece in the world of comic book adaptations, setting a high bar that even the mighty Marvel Cinematic Universe struggles to match. Its influence is felt even after almost two decades and numerous MCU films. The film's impact is evident in the cultural discourse, with moments like the Joker's brutal murder with a writing implement leaving an indelible mark.

As for 'Slow Horses,' Oldman's portrayal of Jackson Lamb is a far cry from his clean-cut Commissioner Gordon in the 'Dark Knight' trilogy. The contrast between these characters adds another layer to the homage, showcasing the versatility of both Oldman and the world of entertainment.

And this is the part most people miss... the subtle genius of these references!

So, what do you think? Is this a deliberate homage or a happy accident? Let us know in the comments! We'd love to hear your thoughts on this intriguing connection.

Gary Oldman's 'Slow Horses' Season 5 Pays Tribute to Heath Ledger's Iconic Joker (2025)
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