You Season 5 brought the chilling saga of Joe Goldberg to its conclusion in a way that sparked strong reactions across the fandom. As the series finale aired, many viewers were left reflecting on whether justice had truly been served or if Joe had once again slipped through the cracks of morality and consequence. I will break down the actual ending of You and explores how the story could have concluded in other impactful ways.
How Season 5 Ends
In the final moments of the series, Joe finds himself back in New York City. Not as the haunted man he once was, but seemingly at peace with the darkness that has defined his life. After orchestrating the deaths of key figures who knew too much or posed a threat to his new identity, Joe sheds his layers of remorse and regret. He embraces his sociopathic nature fully, discarding any pretense of being a "good guy who does bad things."
His final monologue reveals a disturbing clarity. Joe no longer struggles with guilt. He accepts that he is a killer, a manipulator, and someone who thrives on obsession. Rather than being punished or forced into exile, he thrives. Wealth and power now shield him from consequences. In an eerie moment of self awareness, he turns to the audience with a knowing smile. The show leaves viewers with the haunting implication that Joe is no longer running from himself, rather he has become himself completely.
Why the Ending Feels Controversial
Many fans expected a different kind of justice. Some hoped Joe would face trial, or at least be exposed for the trail of destruction left behind. Others wished for a psychological breakdown or even redemption through self sacrifice. But the show took a bold stance by denying both punishment and redemption. It offered something more unsettling victory.
This choice reflected one of the show's central themes. Sometimes monsters win. Sometimes evil does not hide. It simply smiles back at you.
Alternate Endings That Could Have Made Sense
While the official ending delivered a strong thematic punch, there were several alternate conclusions that could have added depth or closure:
1. The Cycle Repeats
Showing that he never changes. He becomes obsessed with a female guard, prison doctor, prison therapist, or someone similar. It all ends with her walking in towards him in slow motion and the last line being "hello you." which emphasizes that he is broken and can never truly change.
2. A Self Destructive Ending
Joe's inner conflict and guilt have been central throughout the series. An ending where his guilt finally overtakes him could have brought the story full circle. A descent into madness, or even a final act of confession followed by self-imposed isolation or death, would have underscored the psychological themes at the heart of the show.
3. Flash Forward to the Future
A flash forward showing the long term consequences of Joe's actions on a new generation perhaps his son Henry could have offered a broader reflection on legacy and trauma. Does evil pass on through bloodlines or environment? This kind of ending could leave viewers pondering deeper questions about nature, nurture, and accountability.
4. Love Returns as a Twist
Though presumed dead, Love Quinn's character had the charisma and unpredictability that could have allowed for a dramatic return. An ending where Love fakes her death and reappears to confront Joe would have been both poetic and shocking. Their toxic dynamic, reignited one last time, could have led to mutual destruction.
5. Marianne, Kate, Nadia Should Have Ended Him
The trio of Marianne, Kate, and Nadia should have been the team to end him. Their combined history with him made them the perfect candidates to bring a final and satisfying conclusion to his story.
Final Thoughts
You Season 5's ending was bold, unsettling, and thematically consistent. Yet it leaves a trail of "what ifs" that fans will likely discuss for years. Whether Joe's rise to power felt earned or disturbing, the show succeeded in making its audience think. Not just about the story, but about our own attraction to charismatic villains.
In the end, maybe the real twist is not what Joe became. It is how easy it was for us to follow him there.