Edie Britt, the iconic Wisteria Lane temptress, meets her tragic end in Season 5, Episode 18, “A Spark. To Pierce the Dark.” Her untimely demise left a lasting impact on the show and its devoted fanbase.
The Circumstances Surrounding Edie’s Death
Edie Britt, portrayed with captivating charisma by Nicollette Sheridan, wasn’t killed off in a dramatic murder plot, as some might expect from Desperate Housewives. Instead, her death was more nuanced and, some would argue, controversial. In “A Spark. To Pierce the Dark,” Edie is shown packing her bags, preparing to leave Wisteria Lane after a heated argument with her husband, Dave Williams.
As she drives away, she encounters Orson Hodge, Susan Mayer’s ex-husband, who is attempting to strangle Mike Delfino. Edie swerves to avoid hitting them, crashing her car into a utility pole. While she initially survives the accident, seemingly unharmed, she later succumbs to a heart attack.
The episode ends with Edie slumped over in her car, adding a layer of tragedy to her departure. Her death wasn’t a direct result of the accident itself, but rather the shock and underlying health issues that contributed to her sudden cardiac arrest. It marked the end of an era for Desperate Housewives, leaving a void that many fans felt was never truly filled.
Analyzing the Impact of Edie’s Departure
Edie Britt was arguably one of the most pivotal characters on Desperate Housewives. She was the catalyst for many plotlines, bringing conflict and humor to Wisteria Lane in equal measure. Her absence significantly altered the dynamic of the show.
Her cutthroat business acumen, coupled with her unapologetic pursuit of love (or at least marriage), made her a compelling and unpredictable force. While her methods were often questionable, she possessed a certain vulnerability that resonated with viewers. Edie’s death not only removed a key character but also shifted the show’s tone. It became less about the comedic drama and more about the exploration of deeper, more introspective themes. The show never quite recaptured the spark that Edie brought, proving her irreplaceable role in the series’ success.
FAQs: Unveiling the Details of Edie Britt’s Death
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the circumstances surrounding Edie Britt’s death and its impact on Desperate Housewives:
What season and episode does Edie Britt die?
Edie Britt dies in Season 5, Episode 18, “A Spark. To Pierce the Dark.”
What caused Edie Britt to crash her car?
Edie crashed her car while swerving to avoid hitting Orson Hodge, who was attempting to strangle Mike Delfino in the street.
Did Edie Britt die directly from the car accident?
No, Edie survived the initial car accident. She later died from a sudden heart attack.
Why did Edie Britt leave Wisteria Lane before her death?
Edie was packing her bags to leave Wisteria Lane after a volatile argument with her husband, Dave Williams.
How did Dave Williams react to Edie’s death?
Dave, already emotionally unstable, was visibly shocked and distressed by Edie’s death. It further fueled his already simmering resentment and vengeful plans.
Was Nicollette Sheridan happy with the way Edie Britt was written off the show?
No, Nicollette Sheridan publicly expressed her displeasure with the decision to kill off her character and filed a lawsuit against ABC alleging wrongful termination.
What was the fan reaction to Edie Britt’s death?
The fan reaction was largely negative, with many viewers expressing disappointment and sadness at the loss of such a pivotal and beloved character.
Did Edie Britt have any underlying health issues that contributed to her heart attack?
While not explicitly stated, the implication was that the stress of the car accident, combined with pre-existing conditions or vulnerabilities, triggered the fatal heart attack.
How did Edie Britt’s death affect the other housewives?
Edie’s death profoundly affected the other housewives. While their relationships with her were often complex and fraught with conflict, they all felt her absence deeply. It forced them to reflect on their own lives and relationships, adding a layer of introspection to the show.
Who bought Edie Britt’s house after her death?
After Edie’s death, her house was eventually purchased by Renee Perry, a former college friend of Lynette Scavo.
Did Edie Britt appear in any episodes after her death?
While Nicollette Sheridan did not appear in person, Edie did make a brief appearance in the series finale through flashback scenes, showcasing pivotal moments from the show’s history.
Is Edie Britt considered one of the most iconic characters on Desperate Housewives?
Absolutely. Edie Britt’s scheming personality, sharp wit, and undeniable sex appeal solidified her status as one of the most memorable and iconic characters in the history of Desperate Housewives. Her presence is still fondly remembered by fans of the show.