[Warning: This article contains major spoilers from the season three finale of Yellowjackets, entitled “Full Circle.” ]
Learning about their character’s demise on Yellowjackets can lead to some emotionally charged conversations for the cast, particularly with co-star Melanie Lynskey, who has become a confidante of sorts. The ongoing killing spree depicted in season three has resulted in Lynskey receiving quite a few heart-wrenching calls from her fellow actors.
“They know I’m the most emotional one,” Lynskey shared candidly with The Hollywood Reporter. “So everyone felt like they had to deliver the news as if it were a personal tragedy.”
The bond among the cast of Yellowjackets is palpable, and they even host celebratory gatherings whenever one of their characters is written off. Centered around teenagers stranded in the wilderness post-plane crash, the series delves deep into the survival instincts of its characters, exploring their transformation across two timelines: the fraught days of 1996 and their current adult lives. In the thrilling finale, Lynskey’s character, adult Shauna—who claimed the title of the “Antler Queen”—faces new harrowing challenges after last season’s shocking loss of Juliette Lewis’ character, adult Natalie.
Reflecting on Natalie’s exit from the series, Lynskey recollects, “Juliette initially told me to keep my composure, but then she quickly softened and said it was okay to let my tears flow.” The emotional bond is evident, as Lynskey added, “I was devastated by each of their departures.”
This season has seen the departure of Lottie and Van, following the introduction of new characters in season two. Despite these losses, Lynskey expresses her confidence in the creative decisions made by showrunners Ashley Lyle, Bart Nickerson, and Jonathan Lisco. Nevertheless, the emotional toll of the endings is difficult to shake off. “Thinking about never wrapping up earlier to enjoy a dinner with Lauren and Simone makes me tear up,” she admits.
In an insightful discussion with The Hollywood Reporter, Lynskey explores Shauna’s complex evolution, including the shocking moment when she takes a bite out of Hilary Swank’s character’s arm. She also reflects on whether it’s justifiable for her remaining friends, Tai (Tawny Cypress) and Misty (Christina Ricci), to turn against her, and shares her thoughts on the season’s ominous voiceover: “Honestly, none of us are safe.”
What shocked you the most at the start of this season?
The intensity escalated significantly. I was particularly taken aback by that moment when Shauna bit into a living person’s arm. Observing Shauna’s relentless pursuit of her goals despite having just partial information is fascinating, showing how she shifts her beliefs so rapidly based on new revelations.
Shauna’s character underwent significant transformations this season. What were your initial discussions with the showrunners regarding her arc?
We had some discussions at the season’s outset. They indicated, “Shauna will strive to be a better wife and mother; she’s looking to make an effort.” I found that intriguing, considering her past. However, that motivation quickly spiraled into chaos, with the creators hinting that things would take a dark turn without revealing specifics, keeping me on my toes.
I wasn’t informed about the characters’ deaths; I learned about them from my co-stars directly.
How did it feel to hear the news directly from your co-stars?
It was incredibly touching. Everyone chose to tell me personally, knowing my emotional investment in each character. For instance, when Juliette shared Natalie’s fate, she reassured me, saying, “It’s okay to cry,” which I did, bursting into tears. Whenever someone like Alexa brought me sad news, I felt heartbroken. Each actor brought something special to their roles, and the thought of losing them was quite distressing.
While I take pride in my colleagues’ success, the bonds we’ve formed made their departures harder. Simone and I are working on a project together back in New Zealand, which offers an exciting future, but I trust that the showrunners are crafting the best story possible, and they’ve given us rich material to work from. But on a personal note, I find it hard to accept that I won’t have casual dinner plans with Lauren and Simone anymore; it really chokes me up.
Kailey Schwerman/Paramount+ with SHOWTIME.
With heightened stakes, do you ever get anxious about your character’s safety? It’s hard to imagine they would eliminate Melanie Lynskey at this point, right?
Truly, none of us feel secure. The unpredictability of the show keeps all of us on edge, and anything is possible. Rumors surfaced that the producers take cast members out for brunch to deliver the news of their demise, but I don’t believe that. (Laughs)
Is the phone call the standard method of delivering news?
Someone joked on Instagram, “Stay away from brunch!”
Your co-stars shared their experiences of prepping emotionally for their characters’ departures. Were there scenes that required a similar depth of emotional investment for you?
Yes, and I truly value working on a show where everyone is dedicated to crafting authentic performances. I was in awe of Lauren’s final scene, as she created powerful emotional beats to convey her character’s struggles. Unfortunately, I couldn’t be there on her last filming day. In a show characterized by intense situations, I sent her comfort food—a grilled cheese truck—because I knew she would need it during such a difficult time.
Sophie’s portrayal of Shauna has always emphasized the character’s underlying confidence and danger. Before filming began, we established that while Shauna carries herself with confidence, her teenage years were characterized by a strong desire not to be underestimated.
How did you navigate the evolving dynamic between Teen and Adult Shauna?
We’ve continually illustrated Shauna’s latent thrill-seeker nature; her embracing risk dictates her actions. Even her instinct to protect her family underscores that she balances love with a willingness to act unhinged in moments of crisis. The fierce instinct towards survival is ever-present within her, which justifies those shocking moments of violence, like the bite out of Hilary Swank’s character’s arm.
After watching her transformation from the hunted to the hunter, how does it feel to see Shauna in control?
It’s fascinating! Looking back, even in the finale of season two when she was perched on the edge of danger, her motivations to hunt were strategic. Now, I think there’s a realization of power dynamics; they witnessed the unpredictability of Lottie and channeled that instinct to reclaim their control.
Given these transformations, do you see the dynamics changing in the present timeline for Shauna and her friends?
They have a shared trauma, which may foster compassion for Shauna; however, no one’s behavior is without flaws, given that Lottie brutally murdered someone and chewed his brains. The severity of their experiences binds them together, even as they struggle to navigate their history.
In the season finale, Shauna journals her thoughts and realizes she’s rediscovering her identity outside of motherhood. What significance does this hold for her?
It reflects a pivotal moment where she recognizes her power. In my understanding, I experimented with a version of the line that expressed both warrior and nightmare; it encapsulates her complicated identity. This journey is only beginning, as the transition from who she was to who she aims to be remains layered and intriguing. What’s next for her is essential to explore.
With the tension between Shauna and her daughter Callie reaching new heights—evidenced by Callie’s shocking actions—what’s your take on their relationship?
That scene was powerful; I admired how Sarah portrayed that moment with such intent. It certainly portrayed the fierce bond between mother and daughter, highlighting Shauna’s complicated feelings about Lottie and Callie’s instinctual protective responses.
Shauna obviously wants better choices for Callie, which complicates her relationship with her. Yet, witnessing the tension between them due to the wilderness experience adds further layers to their already intricate dynamics.
Did you anticipate that Callie would eventually kill Lottie, given the necklace’s significance?
I think Lottie’s intentions were misunderstood by Shauna. The depth of fear and protective instincts regarding the necklace marked a pivotal point in their relationship. Callie’s reaction was instinctual—a triggered consequence of what the wilderness represented for them all.
Would you welcome a potential reunion with your co-stars as the story unfolds, or is the narrative headed in a darker direction?
There’s something particularly special about my connections with Sarah and Warren, and it’s hard to imagine a narrative where they aren’t integral parts of Shauna’s life. Their dynamic adds depth, making every scene shine with the powerful camaraderie we’ve developed.
As we await more content from this gripping series, what is next for Yellowjackets? Has there been any indication of returning characters?
I hope to see ghost Natalie reappear. The emotional stakes remain high, especially as each component of Shauna’s character becomes more pronounced. The end of that season showcases two aligned versions of Shauna, revealing her struggle with identity, motherhood, and power.
You’ve clearly developed a deep connection with your character. What does it mean to navigate Shauna’s elation and anguish on screen?
Each moment of raw emotion showcases her turmoil and determination. By the season’s end, Shauna’s journey of aligning her identities opens avenues for exploration in the coming seasons. Her journey reflects the complexities of a woman grappling with her past and embracing her power.
Watch Yellowjackets Season 3 streaming now on Paramount+ With Showtime, with episodes airing Sundays at 8 p.m. on Showtime.