The Final Reckoning: Why the “You” Finale Was a Bold and Necessary Conclusion
The conclusion of “You” wasn’t just a season finale; it was a statement. It was a purposeful dismantling of the romanticized image many viewers had constructed around its protagonist, Joe Goldberg.this finale didn’t offer easy answers or a satisfying escape for a troubled anti-hero. Instead, it delivered a stark, uncomfortable truth about obsession, accountability, and the dangers of glorifying darkness.
For five seasons, we’ve watched Joe navigate a twisted path of stalking, manipulation, and murder, always justifying his actions through a warped sense of love. He consistently positioned himself as the victim, a man driven to extremes by flawed women. However, the finale decisively rejects this narrative.
A Descent into Despair
We find Joe stripped of his charm, physically and emotionally broken within the confines of prison. He’s gained weight, his head is shaved, and a profound depression has settled over him. This isn’t the confident, calculating Joe we’ve come to know. It’s a pathetic figure lamenting his perceived unfair treatment, a man unable to accept obligation for his actions.
This portrayal is intentional. It’s a direct response to the unsettling phenomenon of “Joe fan girls” – those who actively romanticized his behavior and celebrated his twisted pursuits. These viewers missed the point entirely, focusing on the allure of the stalker rather than the devastation he left in his wake.
A Direct confrontation with the Audience
The series takes a remarkably risky step by directly addressing this problematic fanbase.Joe receives a letter from a follower detailing disturbing fantasies mirroring his own crimes. He visibly recoils, crumpling the letter and delivering a chilling message.
He doesn’t blame the letter writer alone. Instead, he extends the accusation to all who idolized him, questioning whether the problem lies with him or with you – the viewer who found his behavior captivating. This is a powerful and unusual move for a show to critique its own audience.
refuting Romanticization and Honoring Victims
Throughout the finale, the show meticulously refutes the idea that Joe’s actions are justifiable or romantic. It’s a deliberate effort to center the victims, acknowledging their pain and loss. The episode interweaves strong character moments with nail-biting tension and poignant farewells.
Ultimately, the finale is dedicated to dismantling Joe Goldberg as a figure of fascination. It’s a rejection of the easy path - the one that would have catered to a vocal segment of the audience craving a happy ending for their dark hero.
A Bold Choice That Pays Off
The creators could have easily succumbed to the pressure of satisfying this fanbase. They could have offered a redemption arc or a ambiguous ending. Instead, they chose to challenge viewers, essentially saying, “I don’t think you get it.”
For most shows, such a gesture could come across as pretentious or hostile. However, in this context, it feels profoundly effective. It redeems and re-contextualizes a series that could have easily fallen into the trap of glorifying dangerous behavior.
why This Matters
The “You” finale is a significant moment in television. It’s a reminder that entertainment has a responsibility to address complex issues thoughtfully and ethically. It’s a warning about the dangers of romanticizing violence and the importance of empathy for victims.
By refusing to offer Joe a satisfying conclusion, the show delivers a powerful message: monsters aren’t glamorous, and their actions have devastating consequences. This finale isn’t just about ending a story; it’s about starting a conversation. It’s about challenging yoru own perceptions and recognizing the real-world harm caused by obsession and violence.
