Michael Cordero Jr.’s unexpected death sent shockwaves through the Jane the Virgin universe. His funeral, a pivotal and deeply emotional event, occurs in Season 5, Episode 4, “Chapter Eighty-Five”.
The Heartbreak of “Chapter Eighty-Five”: A Closer Look
“Chapter Eighty-Five” isn’t solely dedicated to Michael’s funeral, but the ceremony and its aftermath are undeniably its emotional core. The episode grapples with the devastating impact of his death on Jane, his family, and the larger community. It showcases not just mourning, but also the challenging process of grieving, acceptance, and ultimately, moving forward – albeit with a profound sense of loss.
Navigating Grief and Acceptance
The episode expertly portrays the different ways individuals process grief. Jane’s struggle is central, but the writers also explore the reactions of Rafael, Petra, Rogelio, Alba, and Xiomara, demonstrating that grief is a deeply personal and multifaceted experience. The flashbacks interspersed throughout the episode provide context and amplify the emotional impact of Michael’s absence.
The Significance of Michael’s Memory
Beyond the funeral itself, “Chapter Eighty-Five” emphasizes the enduring power of Michael’s memory. Characters share anecdotes, remember his quirks, and reflect on the impact he had on their lives. This focus on remembrance reinforces Michael’s integral role in the narrative, even after his death. His presence, though intangible, continues to shape the characters’ choices and relationships.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Michael’s Death and Funeral
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding Michael’s passing and the subsequent funeral episode, offering a deeper understanding of this significant plot point in Jane the Virgin:
FAQ 1: Why was Michael killed off Jane the Virgin?
The decision to kill off Michael Cordero was a deliberate creative choice by the showrunners. Jennie Snyder Urman, the show’s creator, has stated that Michael’s death was planned from the beginning to align with Jane’s overall narrative journey. It was intended to create a pivotal moment that would dramatically reshape her life and force her to confront difficult choices about love, loss, and her future. The storyline was a way to bring Jane’s story back to its origins and set up the ultimate decision between Rafael and Michael (later revealed as Jason).
FAQ 2: How did Michael die in Jane the Virgin?
Michael died from complications related to the shooting he experienced in Season 1. While he initially recovered and seemed healthy, his underlying condition eventually led to an aortic dissection, which ultimately proved fatal. This complication was initially presented as amnesia, with Michael being unable to recall his past and becoming a new person known as Jason.
FAQ 3: Was Brett Dier actually leaving the show permanently?
Yes, initially it seemed Brett Dier’s departure was permanent. However, the show cleverly introduced the amnesia storyline to allow for his potential return later in the series. This ultimately occurred in Season 5, providing Jane and the audience with a complex and emotionally charged reunion. His return, although brief, gave Jane the closure she needed and further complicated her feelings for Rafael.
FAQ 4: What songs were played at Michael’s funeral?
Specific details about the exact songs played at Michael’s funeral are not explicitly stated in the episode, leaving them open to interpretation. However, the musical score during the funeral scenes contributes significantly to the overall emotional atmosphere. Expect to hear somber and melancholic melodies, possibly featuring piano or strings, to underscore the solemnity of the occasion.
FAQ 5: How did Jane cope with Michael’s death?
Jane’s coping process was a long and arduous journey. Initially, she experienced profound grief, denial, and disbelief. She relied heavily on her family and friends for support, and eventually started attending grief counseling. The episode highlights her struggle to balance her responsibilities as a mother with her overwhelming grief. Over time, she began to honor Michael’s memory by living her life to the fullest and embracing new opportunities.
FAQ 6: How did Rafael react to Michael’s death?
Rafael’s reaction to Michael’s death was complex and multifaceted. He felt a mixture of grief for the loss of a friend and a sense of guilt, knowing that Michael’s death opened up the possibility of a relationship with Jane. He remained a constant source of support for Jane during her grieving process, demonstrating empathy and understanding. His love for Jane, even through the pain of Michael’s death, remained unwavering.
FAQ 7: What role did Alba play during Jane’s grieving process?
Alba was a pillar of strength for Jane during her grieving process. As a woman who had experienced significant loss herself, she provided unwavering support and understanding. She offered practical assistance, emotional comfort, and spiritual guidance. Alba’s unwavering faith and her ability to find strength in the face of adversity helped Jane navigate her darkest moments. She provided stability and reassurance when Jane needed it most.
FAQ 8: How long after Michael’s death did Jane and Rafael get together?
Jane and Rafael didn’t immediately get together after Michael’s death. There was a significant time jump in the show, allowing Jane time to grieve and heal. It wasn’t until after she reconnected with Michael (then Jason, suffering from amnesia) and ultimately came to terms with her feelings that she was truly able to consider a relationship with Rafael. The timing was deliberate, allowing for organic character development and avoiding the appearance of insensitivity towards Michael’s memory.
FAQ 9: What was the significance of the flashbacks in “Chapter Eighty-Five”?
The flashbacks in “Chapter Eighty-Five” served a crucial purpose by showcasing key moments in Michael and Jane’s relationship. They reminded viewers of their deep connection, their love story, and the impact Michael had on Jane’s life. These flashbacks heightened the emotional impact of his death and served as a poignant reminder of what Jane had lost. They also provided context for her grieving process and helped the audience understand the depth of her pain.
FAQ 10: Did Michael leave anything behind for Jane?
While Michael didn’t leave a physical inheritance, he left Jane with a wealth of memories, lessons learned, and a lasting impact on her life. The greatest gift was arguably the experience and lessons that she got from their relationship. More tangibly, he left her with the love that they shared, which ultimately helped her to grow and become the person she was meant to be. His influence on her life remained even after his passing.
FAQ 11: How did Michael’s death affect Mateo?
Mateo, being young, was not fully aware of the magnitude of Michael’s death, but he did understand that someone important was missing. Jane made an effort to keep Michael’s memory alive for Mateo, sharing stories and showing him pictures. As Mateo grew older, he gradually gained a deeper understanding of who Michael was and the role he played in Jane’s life.
FAQ 12: Is “Chapter Eighty-Five” the saddest episode of Jane the Virgin?
The question of whether “Chapter Eighty-Five” is the saddest episode of Jane the Virgin is subjective and depends on individual viewer preferences. However, it is undeniably one of the most emotionally charged and impactful episodes in the series. The combination of Michael’s death, the funeral scenes, Jane’s grieving process, and the heartfelt performances from the cast makes it a deeply moving and memorable episode. While other episodes may have their own moments of sadness, “Chapter Eighty-Five” stands out for its profound exploration of grief, loss, and the enduring power of love.