Frank Delfino, the gruff but fiercely loyal fixer of Annalise Keating’s inner circle, meets his devastating end in season six, episode fifteen, titled “Stay.” This penultimate episode delivers a shocking blow to fans, permanently altering the landscape of How to Get Away with Murder and leaving a lasting impact on the remaining characters.
A Death Long Foretold: Frank’s Trajectory
Frank’s character arc throughout the series is a complex tapestry of violence, guilt, and desperate attempts at redemption. His past actions, including his role in Lila Stangard’s murder, cast a long shadow over him, fueling a deep-seated self-loathing and a relentless need to protect those he cared about, especially Annalise and Bonnie. Knowing when Frank dies is only part of the story; understanding the circumstances surrounding his death and the events leading up to it provides a much richer understanding of his character and the show’s overall narrative.
The culmination of Frank’s tumultuous journey occurs during an attempt to prevent the Castillo family from further harming Annalise and her associates. The episode “Stay” is a frantic race against time as the conspiracy unravels, culminating in a dramatic shootout where Frank sacrifices himself to save Bonnie from being killed by Governor Birkhead’s hired assassins.
The Scene of the Crime: A Gruesome Sacrifice
The scene of Frank’s death is visceral and emotionally charged. After successfully thwarting the assassination attempt against Annalise at the courthouse, Frank and Bonnie follow the remaining attackers to a local park. Bonnie, in a fit of rage, is poised to deliver the final blow when another shooter appears. Frank, without hesitation, throws himself in front of Bonnie, absorbing the bullets meant for her.
The death is not instantaneous. Bonnie cradles a mortally wounded Frank, her grief palpable. As Frank takes his last breath, confessing his enduring love for Bonnie, the scene underscores the profound and complicated relationship that defined much of his character arc.
The Aftermath: Grief and Consequences
Frank’s death sends shockwaves through the remaining characters. Bonnie, already emotionally fragile, is utterly devastated by the loss. Annalise, though distanced from Frank in recent seasons, feels the weight of his sacrifice deeply, recognizing the tragic irony of his unwavering loyalty. His death serves as a catalyst for the final resolution of the series, forcing the characters to confront their past actions and grapple with the consequences of their choices. The final episode delves into the emotional fallout and explores how Frank’s absence forever alters the dynamics of their lives.
Frequently Asked Questions About Frank Delfino’s Demise
Here are some frequently asked questions about Frank’s death that fans often grapple with, designed to provide comprehensive insights into this pivotal moment in How to Get Away with Murder:
When Exactly Does Frank Die in Season 6?
He dies near the end of season six, episode fifteen, “Stay.” This is the penultimate episode of the entire series.
Why Did Frank Sacrifice Himself for Bonnie?
Frank’s sacrifice for Bonnie is rooted in his deep-seated love and devotion for her. Throughout the series, he constantly sought redemption for his past actions, including his involvement in Lila Stangard’s murder. He felt immense guilt for the pain he caused Bonnie and saw his death as a way to protect her and finally atone for his sins. His love for Bonnie was a complex mix of passion, guilt, and a desperate need to be forgiven.
Could Frank Have Survived the Gunshot Wounds?
While TV shows often stretch the boundaries of realism, Frank’s gunshot wounds were depicted as immediately fatal. The number of bullets he took and the vital organs that were likely hit made his survival highly improbable, if not impossible. Realistically, the writers intended for his death to be decisive and impactful.
How Did Frank’s Death Affect Bonnie?
Bonnie was utterly shattered by Frank’s death. Their relationship was turbulent but deeply meaningful. Frank was one of the few people who truly understood her and offered her a sense of stability, albeit within a highly chaotic environment. His death exacerbated her existing trauma and left her feeling even more alone and vulnerable.
Did Frank’s Death Lead to Any Justice for Him?
While Frank’s death did not result in a formal legal vindication, it did contribute to the downfall of the Castillos and Governor Birkhead. His sacrifice helped expose their corruption and bring them to justice, albeit indirectly. In a way, his death allowed him to finally do something unequivocally heroic, partially redeeming his past transgressions.
What Was Annalise’s Reaction to Frank’s Death?
Annalise was deeply saddened by Frank’s death, although her reaction was more subdued compared to Bonnie’s. Annalise had a complex relationship with Frank, viewing him as both a loyal protector and a source of immense trouble. While they had become somewhat estranged in the later seasons, she still recognized his unwavering dedication and the sacrifices he had made for her. She carried the weight of his death with her.
Was Frank’s Death Necessary for the Story?
Whether Frank’s death was “necessary” is subjective. From a narrative perspective, it heightened the stakes and provided a devastating climax to the series. It reinforced the themes of consequence and redemption that ran throughout the show. It also served to further isolate and challenge the remaining characters, particularly Annalise and Bonnie, forcing them to confront their past choices.
Did Wes’ Death Have Any Connection to Frank’s Death?
While Wes Gibbins’ death (which Frank was partly responsible for) occurred earlier in the series, it certainly played a role in shaping Frank’s character and contributing to his eventual demise. Frank’s guilt over Wes’s death fueled his desire for redemption and his willingness to sacrifice himself for those he cared about. Wes’s death was a catalyst for Frank’s downward spiral and his desperate attempts to atone for his sins.
What Role Did the Castillos Play in Frank’s Death?
The Castillos were directly responsible for Frank’s death. They hired the assassins who targeted Annalise and her associates. Their relentless pursuit of power and their willingness to resort to violence ultimately led to the tragic shootout in which Frank was killed. They were the primary antagonists whose actions set the stage for Frank’s final act of self-sacrifice.
How Did Frank’s Death Impact the Series Finale?
Frank’s death cast a long shadow over the series finale. It underscored the heavy price that had been paid for the characters’ actions and highlighted the lasting consequences of their choices. His absence was felt deeply, particularly by Bonnie, and his sacrifice served as a reminder of the sacrifices that had been made to protect the group.
Were Fans Happy with Frank’s Death?
Fan reactions to Frank’s death were mixed. Some viewers felt that it was a fitting end for a character who had lived a violent and morally ambiguous life. Others were deeply saddened by his death, particularly given his attempts at redemption. Ultimately, his death sparked considerable debate and discussion among fans, highlighting the impact of his character on the show.
What Does Frank’s Death Symbolize in the Context of the Show?
Frank’s death symbolizes the tragic consequences of a life lived in the shadows, marked by violence and guilt. It underscores the theme of redemption and the idea that even those who have committed terrible acts can still find moments of selflessness and sacrifice. His death also represents the ultimate price of loyalty and the devastating impact of the characters’ intertwined fates.