The final episode of the critically acclaimed FX series, The Americans, aired on May 30, 2018. This marked the culmination of six seasons of intricate Cold War espionage and complex character development, leaving a lasting impact on the landscape of television drama.
The End of An Era: “START”
The final episode, titled “START,” served as a poignant and often heartbreaking conclusion to the Jennings family’s saga. It masterfully tied up loose ends while also leaving some ambiguity, inviting viewers to contemplate the long-term consequences of the choices made by Philip and Elizabeth Jennings throughout their years of service to the Soviet Union. The episode name itself, a reference to the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty, underscores the complex geopolitical backdrop against which the intensely personal drama unfolded.
The Jennings’ Fate
“START” focused heavily on the emotional fallout of Paige’s decision to abandon her parents at the train station and remain in the United States. This act of defiance resonated deeply, reflecting the moral complexities and generational conflicts that permeated the entire series. The episode also featured intense scenes of Philip and Elizabeth wrestling with their own convictions and loyalties as they navigated the rapidly changing political landscape.
A Cold War Resolution
The episode’s conclusion saw Philip and Elizabeth back in Moscow, facing an uncertain future and grappling with the consequences of their actions. While they escaped prosecution in the US, they were also estranged from their children and deeply disillusioned with the Soviet system they had served for so long. This ambiguous ending perfectly encapsulated the themes of sacrifice, betrayal, and the ultimately destructive nature of the Cold War that defined The Americans.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Americans’ Finale
Below are some frequently asked questions regarding the last episode of The Americans and its broader implications.
FAQ 1: What Happened to Paige in the Final Episode?
Paige, after struggling with her parents’ true identities and the moral implications of their actions, ultimately decides to get off the train to Canada and remain in the United States. This decision signifies her rejection of her parents’ ideology and her desire to forge her own path, independent of their influence. We see her later in the episode, buying a bottle of wine and drinking alone in an apartment, suggesting a difficult and uncertain future.
FAQ 2: Did Philip and Elizabeth Get Caught?
No, Philip and Elizabeth successfully evaded capture by the FBI and made it back to Moscow. However, their escape came at a significant cost. They were forced to leave Paige behind, and their relationship with Henry remained strained. The fact that they weren’t caught legally doesn’t mean they escaped the consequences of their actions. The emotional and familial toll was immense.
FAQ 3: Why Was the Ending So Ambiguous?
The ambiguous ending was a deliberate choice by the show’s creators, Joe Weisberg and Joel Fields. They wanted to avoid a simplistic, Hollywood-style resolution and instead reflect the messy realities of espionage and the Cold War. Leaving some questions unanswered forced viewers to consider the long-term impact of the Jennings’ actions and the complexities of their moral compromises.
FAQ 4: How Did Stan Beeman React to Discovering Philip and Elizabeth’s True Identities?
Stan Beeman’s reaction was one of profound shock and betrayal. He had been a close friend and neighbor to Philip and Elizabeth for years, and their deception cut deeply. In a crucial scene at the train station, he chose to let them go, recognizing the complexity of their situation and perhaps acknowledging a level of personal connection despite their betrayal. This act of mercy and understanding highlighted Stan’s own evolving moral compass.
FAQ 5: What Happened to Martha Hanson?
Martha Hanson, the FBI secretary who was manipulated and married by Philip (under the alias Clark Westerfeld), had been safely relocated to Russia several seasons earlier. While she didn’t appear in the final episode, her story was a tragic reminder of the human cost of espionage and the collateral damage inflicted by the Jennings’ actions. Her absence served as a constant, unspoken reminder of their past deeds.
FAQ 6: How Did the Finale Impact the Show’s Legacy?
The finale significantly enhanced the show’s legacy. Its nuanced portrayal of complex characters, morally ambiguous situations, and the human cost of ideological conflict resonated deeply with critics and audiences alike. The ambiguous ending sparked countless discussions and solidified The Americans‘ place as one of the greatest television dramas of all time.
FAQ 7: Was a Spin-Off Ever Considered?
While there were some discussions about potential spin-offs focusing on other characters or aspects of the Cold War, ultimately no spin-off series was ever produced. The creators felt that the story of the Jennings family had reached its natural conclusion and that attempting to continue the narrative would dilute the impact of the original series.
FAQ 8: How Long Was The Americans on the Air?
The Americans ran for six seasons, premiering on January 30, 2013, and concluding on May 30, 2018. Each season typically consisted of 13 episodes, providing ample time to develop the complex characters and intricate storylines.
FAQ 9: Did Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys Win Any Awards For Their Roles?
Yes, both Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys received critical acclaim and numerous awards for their portrayals of Elizabeth and Philip Jennings. Matthew Rhys won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series in 2018 for his role as Philip. Keri Russell won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 2018. They both also received Golden Globe nominations and other accolades throughout the show’s run.
FAQ 10: Where Can I Watch The Americans?
The Americans is available for streaming on several platforms, including Hulu, Amazon Prime Video (available for purchase), and FXNow. Check your local streaming services for availability. Physical copies of the series are also available for purchase on DVD and Blu-ray.
FAQ 11: What Were Some of the Key Themes Explored in The Americans?
The Americans explored a wide range of themes, including identity, loyalty, family, betrayal, the Cold War, moral ambiguity, the American Dream, and the cost of deception. The show masterfully weaved these themes together to create a compelling and thought-provoking narrative that resonated with audiences on multiple levels.
FAQ 12: Why Is The Americans Considered Such a Great Show?
The Americans is widely regarded as one of the best television dramas of the 21st century due to its exceptional writing, complex characters, strong performances, compelling storylines, historical accuracy (within a fictional context), and its willingness to explore morally ambiguous themes. The show consistently challenged viewers to question their own beliefs and assumptions, making it a truly unforgettable viewing experience. The ending, in particular, cemented its place in television history by resisting easy answers and embracing the inherent complexities of the narrative. The meticulous attention to detail, particularly regarding the 1980s setting, further contributed to the show’s immersive and believable atmosphere.