‘Monsieur Spade’ on AMC Reminds Us That Clive Owen’s Toned Tush Is A Valuable Asset

Sam Spade, the legendary detective from Dashiell Hammett’s novel The Maltese Falcon, isn’t the only exciting element AMC’s new crime drama Monsieur Spade is bringing back to screens. Viewers of the limited series — which premiered on January 14 — will also be graced by the sight of Clive Owen’s bare bum again!

With 80 IMDb credits and counting, the 59-year-old English actor has been flexing his incredible acting chops for decades. But as hardcore Owen stans will recall, several roles over the years also required him to flex…his butt muscles. Owen’s rear end has appeared on screen numerous times before — with fine-ass scenes in Shoot ‘Em Up, Close My Eyes, and more springing to mind. In our year 2024, I’m pleased to report that the butt is back, baby! And in case you had any doubt, Owen’s still got it!

The first episode of Monsieur Spade shows the detective arriving in Bozouls on a mission, then meeting and falling in love with wealthy local vineyard owner, Gabrielle (Chiara Mastroianni). Eight years later, retired and widowed, Spade spends his days resting, soaking up the sun on Gabrielle’s gorgeous estate, and taking daily swims in the nude — as one does.

In present day, Spade grabs a teal robe from the back of a chair inside, wraps it around his body, and heads out to the pool. Next thing we know, his backside is on full display as he’s swimming laps, and when he comes up for air, he’s greeted by an unexpected visitor, George Fitzsimmons (Matthew Beard). The chipper, delightfully awkward artist hopes to paint Gabrielle’s picturesque property, just as his father did years ago. After Spade tells George his wife is no longer with them, he emerges from the pool stark naked — much to the discomfort of his guest — and flashes his toned tush to the camera.

Spade walks towards his towel, dries his glistening skin, and eventually covers himself with his robe once again. But the naked swims continue throughout the season, and in a touching twist, the dashing detective’s derrière proves to be much more than a salacious sight.

In the presence of George Fitzsimmons, Owen’s bum is a vehicle for humor, a reminder of property ownership, and the ultimate symbol of retirement. The detective’s off the clock! He’s given up the grind! He’s a widower! It’s his pool now, and he can swim naked if he wants! But in solitude, away from prying eyes of acquaintances and camera lenses, Spade’s skinny dips showcase a deeper vulnerability; an exploration of his past, a love story cut short, and the intimate ways he clings to his late wife’s memory.

The nudity may initially feel unnecessary — like a calculated creative choice designed to keep Clive Owen’s ass-issance going strong or ensure that a handsome actor shows some skin on screen. (It’s worth noting this isn’t the only butt we see in the series!) But without spoiling the story, viewers can rest assured there’s a meatier meaning behind Clive Owen’s behind in Monsieur Spade. You’ll just have to watch and see.

Monsieur Spade is now streaming on AMC+ and Acorn TV, with new episodes airing Sundays at 9:00 p.m. ET on AMC.