Netflix’s psychological thriller, “You,” finally gave the ending that Joe Goldberg (Penn Badgley) deserved. Over the five seasons, “You” explored ideas of obsession and violence through Joe’s dark, twisted love. The show isn’t just about a serial killer, it’s about the terrifying ways people lie — to others and themselves. Season five of “You” delivers a dark, fitting conclusion to one of Netflix’s complex sociopaths, earning its place alongside “Dexter.”
From the start, “You” pulled viewers in through Joe’s twisted story by presenting him as a charming literary enthusiast who stalked and killed the women he “loved.” Season one framed his obsession with Guinevere Beck (Elizabeth Lail) through unreliable narration, while season two and three escalated the chaos with Love Quinn (Victoria Pedretti), Joe’s equally dangerous partner. Season four recognized Joe’s violence and obsession and embraced them with his partner Kate Lockewood (Charlotte Ritchie).
This final season brings the show back in a full circle. Joe returns to New York wealthier, with influence and a public image to protect. With the mistakes of his past erased, Joe appears to have it all figured out, but beneath all the lies he’s created, his delusions and violence remain part of him. Now, he must face the ghosts of his past and his dark desires that threaten his “perfect family.”
What made “You” loved by fans was its unique perspective through compelling inner monologues. The audience was able to hear Joe’s inner dialogue — a mix of romance and dangerous conspiracy. This unique feature swept us away as the plot began to reach the end, where Joe might not escape from his flaws.
This season continued to please me with its cinematography. The show remained consistent with its moody aesthetics, dangerous narration and moments of true romance and pure horror. The supporting cast added emotional weight to Joe’s increasingly chaotic journey.
Although season five brought the closure needed for Joe, it felt unrealistic. Joe, an intelligent, charming and manipulative killer continuously making the same mistake after getting everything he ever wanted is just impractical. In previous seasons, Joe was always one step ahead of everyone else. His tendency toward obsession and violence made him a character who could never be trusted and one who resorts to killing to avoid the truth. I was disappointed when this season began weakening his intuitions to bring closure.
The ending doesn’t offer redemption or romanticize Joe’s crimes. Instead, it forces him to confront the truth: he is the monster of his story. His trauma and abuse do not justify his actions. He was the villain, never the victim.
Season five tied up all loose ends and brought the show back to life. While everyone’s aware of the horrors Joe is capable of, smart, damaged young women with troubled pasts continue to fall for him, much like how viewers are drawn to the anti-hero. The conclusion feels justified and brings proper closure to Joe’s run and the women whose lives he shattered.
Goodbye, You.
