In the final episode of ALF, titled “Consider Me Gone,” the alien life form Gordon Shumway, known as ALF, prepared to be rescued by his Melmacian friends Rhonda and Skip. However, at the very last moment, as their spaceship approaches, the Alien Task Force (ATF) intercepts the rescue, leaving ALF’s fate hanging precariously in the balance and the Tanners devastated.
The Cliffhanger That Echoed Through Television History
The ending of ALF remains one of the most talked-about cliffhangers in television history, largely due to the show’s abrupt cancellation after the fourth season. The cancellation occurred before the writers had a chance to resolve the storyline, leaving viewers grappling with the unsettling uncertainty of ALF’s capture and the Tanners’ heartbreak. This premature ending forever cemented the episode’s status as a frustrating and poignant piece of television.
The Build-Up to Rescue
Throughout the final season, ALF’s yearning for his home planet and the possibility of reunification with other Melmacians was a recurring theme. The episode begins with heightened anticipation. Rhonda and Skip, ALF’s friends who managed to escape Melmac’s destruction, have finally located him and are poised to arrive and take him back to a new colony. The Tanners, having risked everything to shelter ALF for so long, wrestle with mixed emotions: joy for ALF’s opportunity and grief at the prospect of losing their extraterrestrial family member.
The Cruel Interruption
The moment of truth arrives with the distinct sound of a spaceship approaching. The Tanners and ALF gather outside, brimming with excitement. But their hope is quickly dashed as dark helicopters, clearly marked with ATF insignia, swoop in and surround them. The episode concludes with a close-up shot of ALF, his face etched with fear and resignation, as the ATF agents close in. The screen fades to black, leaving audiences with the agonizing question: what happens next?
Understanding the Unresolved Fate
The lack of resolution wasn’t a creative choice, but rather a consequence of behind-the-scenes turmoil. The show’s production company, Lorimar-Telepictures, was facing financial difficulties and ultimately sold the rights to Warner Bros. The cancellation, coupled with the unresolved ending, sparked outrage among fans and solidified the episode as a symbol of unfinished storytelling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the ALF Finale
Here, we delve deeper into the specifics surrounding the final episode and address some of the most common questions that fans have pondered for decades.
What really happened to ALF after the show was canceled?
Officially, the ending remains unresolved in the original sitcom continuity. The fate of ALF, whether he was captured, experimented on, or perhaps even escaped, was never shown on screen. However, the story was resolved in the made-for-TV movie Project: ALF, discussed later.
Why was ALF canceled in the first place?
Multiple factors contributed to the cancellation, including declining ratings, high production costs (due to the complexities of operating the ALF puppet), and behind-the-scenes tensions. The show’s popularity waned in its later seasons, making it less attractive to advertisers. The demanding production requirements also made it expensive to produce each episode.
Did the actors know that “Consider Me Gone” would be the final episode?
No, the actors were not aware that the episode would be the series finale. This lack of foresight is part of why the ending feels so abrupt and unsatisfactory. They, along with the viewers, were left with unanswered questions and a feeling of incompleteness.
Was there a sequel or continuation of the ALF storyline?
Yes, there was a made-for-TV movie called Project: ALF, which aired in 1996. However, it was widely criticized by fans for its tonal shift and the absence of the original Tanner family cast. It provided a definitive, albeit unpopular, answer to what happened to ALF after his capture: he was held in a secret military base and subjected to various experiments.
Why didn’t the original Tanner family actors appear in Project: ALF?
The absence of the Tanners in Project: ALF contributed significantly to its negative reception. Reportedly, the original actors were not interested in reprising their roles due to their own mixed feelings about the show and its production. The shift in focus to entirely new characters and a different narrative style alienated many loyal fans.
Is there any hope for a reboot or revival of ALF that resolves the original ending?
There have been occasional rumblings and discussions about a potential ALF reboot. In 2018, there was talk of a reboot, but it never materialized. Whether a revival addressing the unresolved cliffhanger will ever come to fruition remains uncertain. The challenge lies in capturing the original’s unique blend of humor and heart while providing a satisfying conclusion to the storyline.
What was the Alien Task Force (ATF)?
The Alien Task Force (ATF) was a fictional government organization within the ALF universe dedicated to tracking and capturing extraterrestrial life forms. They were a constant threat to ALF and the Tanners, representing the fear and prejudice surrounding the unknown.
Did Willie Tanner ever regret taking ALF in?
While Willie Tanner certainly experienced moments of frustration and exasperation with ALF’s antics, it’s unlikely he ultimately regretted taking him in. Despite the challenges, Willie developed a strong bond with ALF and came to see him as part of the family. The show consistently emphasized themes of acceptance, tolerance, and the importance of family, regardless of its unconventional form.
How did the other members of the Tanner family feel about ALF’s departure?
Each member of the Tanner family was deeply affected by the prospect of ALF’s departure. Lynn, the teenage daughter, viewed ALF as a quirky and lovable brother figure. Brian, the younger son, considered ALF his best friend and confidante. Even Kate, the pragmatic mother, had grown to love ALF and saw him as part of the family, despite the constant risk of exposure.
What was ALF going to do on the “New Melmac”?
The “New Melmac” was a hypothetical colony where ALF, Rhonda, and Skip hoped to rebuild their civilization. While the specifics of their plans were never fully explored, it’s implied that ALF would have had the opportunity to reconnect with his heritage, learn more about his culture, and potentially start a family of his own.
Are there any behind-the-scenes stories that shed light on the ending?
Many behind-the-scenes accounts reveal the frustrations of the cast and crew with the demanding production and the show’s eventual cancellation. The abrupt end of ALF reportedly left many involved feeling disappointed and unfulfilled. The show’s star, Paul Fusco, who operated and voiced ALF, has spoken openly about his desire to provide a more conclusive ending for the character.
Why is the ALF finale still talked about today?
The ALF finale continues to resonate with audiences due to its unresolved cliffhanger, the show’s unique premise, and the nostalgia associated with 1980s television. The abrupt cancellation and the unanswered questions surrounding ALF’s fate have made it a topic of discussion and speculation for decades, solidifying its place in television history. The character’s enduring popularity and the show’s themes of family and acceptance also contribute to its lasting appeal.