The final episode of Unforgettable, titled “We Can Be Heroes,” offered a bittersweet conclusion: Carrie Wells, leveraging her hyperthymesia, successfully exposes the corrupt police commissioner, Elliott Darrow, while simultaneously navigating the emotional fallout of Al Burns’s unexpected heart attack. Despite the victory, the episode left several threads dangling and many viewers with unanswered questions about the future of Carrie and the rest of the team.
The Downfall of Darrow and the Cost of Justice
The central narrative of “We Can Be Heroes” revolved around Carrie’s investigation into a series of increasingly suspicious actions by Police Commissioner Elliott Darrow. Darrow, long suspected of being a “bad apple,” finally reveals his true colors, entangled in a web of corruption involving drug trafficking and evidence tampering. Carrie, using her extraordinary memory, pieces together seemingly disparate fragments of information, connecting Darrow to a murdered informant and a conspiracy that reaches the highest echelons of the NYPD.
The tension builds as Carrie meticulously gathers evidence, working with Al and the Major Crimes Unit to build an airtight case. Her unwavering determination, fueled by her commitment to justice and her photographic memory, proves instrumental in uncovering Darrow’s complex scheme. The final confrontation is a tense showdown, where Carrie confronts Darrow with irrefutable proof of his crimes. Darrow’s downfall is particularly impactful, showcasing the power of truth and the consequences of abusing power.
However, the episode doesn’t offer a completely triumphant ending. The victory comes at a cost. The intense pressure and stress take a toll on Al, leading to a sudden and devastating heart attack.
Al Burns’s Fate: Ambiguity and Emotional Impact
Al’s heart attack is arguably the most significant and heartbreaking event of the finale. The scene is masterfully crafted, emphasizing the close bond between Carrie and Al. His collapse leaves Carrie devastated, and the episode ends on a cliffhanger, leaving Al’s survival uncertain. This ambiguity significantly impacts the overall tone of the finale, shifting from a clear-cut victory to a more nuanced and somber reflection on the sacrifices made in the pursuit of justice.
The final scene, featuring Carrie at Al’s bedside, praying for his recovery, leaves the audience grappling with the potential loss of a beloved character. It effectively highlights the emotional toll of their demanding work and the fragility of life, even for the most dedicated and resilient individuals.
Lingering Questions and Unresolved Threads
While “We Can Be Heroes” delivers a satisfying resolution to the Darrow storyline, it also leaves several loose ends, partly due to the series’ unexpected cancellation. The future of the Major Crimes Unit, Carrie’s personal life, and the potential ramifications of Darrow’s exposure remain largely unexplored.
The Future of the Major Crimes Unit
With Darrow exposed and potentially facing prosecution, the future leadership and direction of the Major Crimes Unit are left uncertain. The episode hints at internal power struggles within the NYPD as various individuals vie for Darrow’s position. The team’s cohesion, already strained by recent events, is further challenged by this ambiguity.
Carrie’s Personal Life and Relationships
Carrie’s personal life, always intertwined with her professional life, remains a source of intrigue. The finale doesn’t offer any significant closure regarding her romantic relationships or her future aspirations beyond solving crimes. The episode suggests a deep connection with Al, but his uncertain fate leaves her emotionally vulnerable and facing an uncertain future.
The Ramifications of Darrow’s Exposure
While Darrow’s exposure is a victory for justice, the full extent of his corruption and the potential consequences for the NYPD are not fully explored. The episode leaves viewers wondering about the depth of the rot within the department and the efforts required to restore public trust. The ripple effect of Darrow’s actions could potentially destabilize the entire institution.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Unforgettable Finale
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding the final episode of Unforgettable, “We Can Be Heroes”:
H3 Did Al Burns Die?
The episode deliberately leaves Al’s fate ambiguous. We see Carrie at his bedside in the hospital, but his condition and prognosis are not explicitly revealed. Therefore, Al’s survival is left to the viewer’s interpretation.
H3 Why Was Unforgettable Cancelled?
Unforgettable faced several cancellations and revivals throughout its run. Ultimately, lower ratings and declining viewership are generally cited as the primary reasons for its final cancellation. The show struggled to maintain a consistent audience despite its unique premise.
H3 Did Carrie and Al Ever Become a Couple?
The relationship between Carrie and Al was complex and multifaceted, characterized by deep affection, mutual respect, and unwavering loyalty. While their dynamic hinted at romantic potential, they never officially became a romantic couple. Their connection remained primarily professional and deeply platonic, built on shared experiences and a profound understanding of each other.
H3 What Happened to Eliot Darrow After Carrie Exposed Him?
The episode doesn’t explicitly show Darrow’s immediate fate. However, the evidence Carrie presented was irrefutable. It’s highly probable that Darrow faced arrest, prosecution, and likely imprisonment for his involvement in drug trafficking, evidence tampering, and other corrupt activities.
H3 What Is Hyperthymesia, and How Accurate Is Its Depiction in Unforgettable?
Hyperthymesia, also known as Highly Superior Autobiographical Memory (HSAM), is a rare condition that allows individuals to recall specific details from their past with remarkable accuracy. Unforgettable took creative liberties in its portrayal of Carrie’s hyperthymesia, often exaggerating its capabilities for dramatic effect. While the show highlights the potential benefits of such a memory, it also touched upon the emotional burdens it can impose.
H3 What Crimes Did Darrow Actually Commit?
Darrow committed a range of serious crimes, including:
- Drug Trafficking: He was implicated in facilitating the distribution of illegal drugs.
- Evidence Tampering: He altered or destroyed evidence to protect himself and his associates.
- Obstruction of Justice: He actively interfered with investigations to shield corrupt individuals.
- Conspiracy: He participated in a criminal conspiracy with other corrupt officers and individuals.
H3 What Was the Significance of the Episode Title “We Can Be Heroes”?
The title “We Can Be Heroes” is multifaceted. It refers to the heroism Carrie demonstrates in bringing down Darrow, but also highlights the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers in their pursuit of justice. The title underscores the idea that even ordinary individuals can achieve extraordinary feats when driven by a strong moral compass. It also subtly suggests the cost of such heroism.
H3 What Other TV Shows Are Similar to Unforgettable?
Several TV shows share thematic similarities with Unforgettable, including:
- The Mentalist: Features a protagonist with exceptional observation skills.
- Castle: Combines crime-solving with a compelling romantic dynamic.
- Without a Trace: Focuses on missing persons investigations and the intricacies of memory.
- Cold Case: Explores unsolved crimes from the past, often relying on memory and forensic evidence.
H3 Did Dylan Walsh’s Character, Al Burns, Know About Carrie’s Condition Before They Started Working Together?
While never explicitly stated, it’s implied that Al knew about Carrie’s hyperthymesia before they reunited and began working together again. Their shared history and Al’s familiarity with her unique abilities suggest that he was aware of her condition. His recruitment of Carrie was likely based, at least in part, on her exceptional memory.
H3 What Was the Most Challenging Case for Carrie Wells to Solve?
While numerous cases tested Carrie’s abilities, the one that arguably posed the greatest challenge involved her sister’s murder. This personal connection complicated the investigation and triggered deep emotional turmoil. Solving her sister’s case was not just about finding a killer; it was about confronting her own past and finding closure.
H3 How Did Carrie Use Her Memory to Overcome Obstacles?
Carrie frequently used her memory to:
- Recall minute details: This allowed her to identify inconsistencies and uncover hidden clues.
- Reconstruct crime scenes: Her ability to mentally revisit events provided valuable insights into the sequence of events.
- Identify suspects: She could remember faces, voices, and other identifying characteristics with remarkable accuracy.
- Connect disparate pieces of information: She could link seemingly unrelated events and details to form a cohesive narrative.
H3 What Is the Legacy of Unforgettable?
Unforgettable‘s legacy lies in its unique premise and its portrayal of a strong, capable female protagonist. The show highlighted the fascinating world of hyperthymesia and explored the complexities of memory and its impact on human experience. While the show faced cancellation challenges, it remains a memorable and engaging crime drama with a dedicated fan base. The enduring appeal stems from its intriguing characters, captivating mysteries, and thought-provoking exploration of the human mind.