[This article reveals significant spoilers from the season three finale of Yellowjackets, titled “Full Circle.” ]
The Season Three Finale: A Closer Look
The co-creators of Yellowjackets promised revelations, and the season three finale, “Full Circle,” did not disappoint. This episode marked a pivotal moment for the series, unraveling long-held secrets and deepening character arcs.
A Recap: The Journey So Far
Since its debut in 2021, the Showtime series captured widespread attention with its compelling storyline about a high school girls’ soccer team whose plane crashes in an isolated wilderness. The narrative cleverly juxtaposes two timelines: the traumatic 1996 crash and the present-day lives of the survivors, portrayed by a talented cast. A striking opening scene introduces a mysterious girl, known as “Pit Girl,” who meets a horrific fate that leaves viewers questioning her identity and the circumstances that led the group to cannibalism.
Revealing Pit Girl’s Identity
In a shocking twist, the identity of Pit Girl is revealed as Mari, portrayed by Alexa Barajas. Earlier in the season, Mari encounters a deadly trap set by Coach Ben (Steven Krueger), only to tragically find herself ensnared once again, leading to her gruesome hunt. Co-creators Ashley Lyle and Jonathan Lisco explained to The Hollywood Reporter that the episode’s flashbacks juxtaposed the adult survivors’ recollections with the brutal reality of their experiences, emphasizing the differing perspectives on trauma.
This reframing of past events also sheds light on Misty’s (Samantha Hanratty) enigmatic smile observed in the pilot, which now conveys her satisfaction over orchestrating a secret rescue plan alongside Nat (Sophie Thatcher). The episode culminates with Nat making a crucial contact that signifies the end of their harrowing wilderness ordeal, lasting 19 months in the Canadian wilderness.
Shocking Revelations in the Present
The current storyline pivots dramatically after Van’s (Lauren Ambrose) tragic demise. Following this event, the surviving characters, as well as the audience, learn of Lottie’s (Simone Kessell) shocking death at the hands of Shauna’s (Melanie Lynskey) daughter, Callie (Sarah Desjardins). When Misty connects the dots, she reveals to Shauna that her daughter has pushed Lottie down a staircase in New York City, igniting a fresh wave of chaos and emotional turmoil.
Now faced with her daughter’s actions and a tumultuous family dynamic, Shauna finds herself liberated from her monotonous existence, reawakening the once-dominant Antler Queen persona. The season closes with Shauna documenting her journey to reclaim her powerful identity. Meanwhile, Taissa (Tawny Cypress), in her grief, proposes a precarious alliance with Misty to confront Shauna.
Inside the Finale: Insights from Creators
In an exclusive conversation with THR, Nickerson, Lyle, and Lisco delve into the monumental events of the finale. Topics of discussion include their long-standing knowledge of Mari’s identity as Pit Girl, the complexities of Callie’s actions in Lottie’s death, their ambitions for Season 4, and the difficult choices surrounding character deaths.
Bart, when we spoke at the beginning of the season, you told me something made you gasp in the edit. Ashley said that was rare. Now I want to know what that was.
BART NICKERSON Oh man, I don’t remember!
JOHNATHAN LISCO Bart, was it when Shauna [Sophie Nélisse] gets hit with the stick by Melissa [Jenna Burgess] in the finale?
ASHLEY LYLE I think I know what it was. We found the finale particularly impactful when connecting it to the pilot for the Pit Girl scene, offering a fresh perspective. Seeing Mari [Alexa Barajas] dragged through the snow touched us deeply; we had only previously shown the bloody hair. Her depiction in that moment was immensely powerful.
Exploring Trauma and Togetherness
This season’s poignant narrative arc culminates in the episode’s final moments. As the survivors wrestle with guilt and betrayal, every character faces their instinctual survival choices. As they contend with the weight of their actions, the series masterfully captures the layered psychological complexity inherent in human behavior and traumatic experience.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Yellowjackets
With Season 3 now concluded, the creators hint at an exciting array of narratives ahead focused on the characters’ reintegration into society and the lingering shadows of their pasts. Lyle emphasized the opportunity to explore horror beyond the wilderness, hinting at the psychological battles awaiting the characters as they reconcile with their traumatic histories.
As fans eagerly await news of a Season 4 renewal, the writers remain committed to depicting the harrowing yet fascinating journey of these women. With significant character dynamics reset, the future of Yellowjackets promises to explore complex themes surrounding identity, trauma, and survival.
Catch all episodes of Yellowjackets Season 3 now streaming on Paramount+ with Showtime, and enjoy the captivating storytelling that continues to evolve.