The last episode of The Originals, titled “When the Saints Go Marching In,” aired on August 1, 2018. This marked the conclusion of the five-season supernatural drama, a spin-off of the wildly popular The Vampire Diaries.
A Deep Dive into the Final Episode
“When the Saints Go Marching In” wasn’t just an ending; it was a culmination of years of complex character arcs, interwoven relationships, and a battle against seemingly insurmountable odds. The Mikaelson family, known for their tumultuous history and unwavering loyalty to one another, faced their ultimate test – saving Hope.
The Hollow, a malevolent spirit, threatened to consume Hope’s life. To prevent this, each member of the Mikaelson family absorbed a portion of the Hollow’s essence, effectively splitting it into four parts. However, a prophecy dictated that the Mikaelsons could never be near each other while carrying the Hollow’s power, or Hope would be endangered. This forced a heartbreaking separation.
Klaus, ever the protector, ultimately decided to sacrifice himself to eradicate the Hollow’s influence completely. Elijah, unable to bear a life without Klaus, chose to join him, ending their centuries-long journey together. The episode ended with a sense of profound loss, but also with a glimmer of hope for the future, particularly for Hope, who was left to navigate the world without her parents but surrounded by the love of her extended family and friends.
This finale was a masterclass in dramatic storytelling, leaving a lasting impact on fans and solidifying The Originals‘ place in the pantheon of great supernatural television. It explored themes of family, sacrifice, redemption, and the enduring power of love in the face of adversity.
Understanding the Legacy of The Originals
The Originals distinguished itself from its predecessor by focusing on the complexities of family dynamics, the struggles of immortality, and the weight of history. While The Vampire Diaries centered on teenage romance and self-discovery, The Originals delved into mature themes and explored the moral ambiguities of its characters. The show resonated with audiences because it presented flawed, relatable characters who grappled with universal human emotions, despite their supernatural origins.
The Show’s Impact on the Supernatural Genre
The Originals revitalized the supernatural genre, demonstrating that these types of shows could explore complex themes and tell compelling stories that appealed to a broad audience. It helped pave the way for other shows that dared to delve deeper into the darker aspects of the supernatural world and explore the moral gray areas of its characters. The show’s success also helped solidify the CW’s reputation as a hub for high-quality supernatural dramas.
Why the Finale Resonated with Fans
The finale of The Originals resonated with fans because it provided a sense of closure while remaining true to the show’s core themes. The sacrifices made by Klaus and Elijah, while heartbreaking, were consistent with their characters’ motivations and their deep love for Hope. The ending also offered a sense of hope for the future, leaving viewers with the feeling that the Mikaelson family’s legacy would continue to live on through Hope.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About The Originals Finale
Here are some frequently asked questions about the final episode of The Originals, providing further insight into the show’s ending and its lasting impact:
1. Why did Klaus and Elijah have to die in the finale?
Their deaths were crucial to permanently eliminating The Hollow. Separating with pieces of the Hollow within them was a temporary solution. Only a powerful act of destruction, coupled with the simultaneous demise of Klaus and Elijah who held significant fragments, could ensure The Hollow’s complete eradication, thus safeguarding Hope. Elijah’s decision to stay with Klaus was driven by his unwavering loyalty and the realization that he couldn’t imagine a life without him.
2. What happened to Hope Mikaelson after the finale?
Hope’s story continued in the spin-off series, Legacies. She attends the Salvatore School for the Young and Gifted, learning to control her supernatural abilities and navigating the challenges of adolescence while grappling with the loss of her parents.
3. Will there ever be a revival of The Originals?
While there are no concrete plans for a revival, never say never. Given the enduring popularity of the Vampire Diaries universe, and the potential for exploring new stories within the existing mythology, a revival remains a possibility, albeit unlikely in the near future.
4. What were the fan reactions to the finale?
Fan reactions were mixed. Many viewers were deeply saddened by the deaths of Klaus and Elijah, considering them pivotal characters. However, others appreciated the finale’s emotional resonance and its thematic consistency with the show’s overall narrative. The ending was widely discussed and debated online, demonstrating the show’s lasting impact on its fanbase.
5. How did the finale affect the other characters, such as Rebekah and Marcel?
Rebekah and Marcel received a happy ending, with Marcel finally accepting Rebekah’s proposal to marry him. This offered a sense of closure for their long and complicated relationship, providing a moment of joy amidst the tragedy. Their future together represents a continuation of the Mikaelson family’s legacy, albeit in a different form.
6. Was the finale planned from the beginning, or did it evolve over time?
The show’s writers have stated that the major plot points of the finale, including the sacrifice of Klaus and Elijah, were discussed and developed over time, but the specifics evolved as the show progressed. The core themes of family, sacrifice, and redemption were always central to the show’s narrative, influencing the ultimate direction of the finale.
7. What made Klaus Mikaelson decide to sacrifice himself?
Klaus’s primary motivation was always protecting his daughter, Hope. He realized that the Hollow could potentially return and pose a threat to her in the future. He saw his sacrifice as the only way to ensure her long-term safety and happiness, finally putting his child’s needs above his own.
8. Did the finale tie up all loose ends?
While the finale provided closure for the main characters and plot lines, some minor threads were left unresolved, leaving room for potential spin-offs or revivals. However, the major conflicts and character arcs were effectively concluded, offering a satisfying ending for most viewers.
9. How does the finale connect to the larger Vampire Diaries universe?
The finale reinforces the interconnectedness of the Vampire Diaries universe, highlighting the enduring consequences of the characters’ actions and the lasting impact of their relationships. The show’s themes of family, sacrifice, and redemption resonate throughout the entire franchise.
10. What are some alternative endings that were considered?
While the writers haven’t publicly revealed specific alternative endings, it’s likely that they considered various scenarios that would have allowed Klaus and Elijah to survive. However, they ultimately decided that their sacrifices were the most fitting and thematically resonant way to conclude their stories.
11. Where can I watch the last episode of The Originals?
You can stream the last episode, along with the entire series, on various platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video (depending on your region), and through purchasing digital copies on platforms like iTunes or Google Play. Check your local streaming service availability for confirmation.
12. What is the legacy of The Originals on television?
The Originals cemented its place as a significant entry in the supernatural drama genre. The show demonstrated the power of complex character development, compelling storytelling, and exploring profound themes within a fantastical setting. Its lasting influence can be seen in the numerous supernatural shows that followed, which dared to push boundaries and explore the darker aspects of the genre. Its focus on family bonds and moral ambiguity resonated with audiences and continues to draw new viewers to the show today.