In the final episode of Lovejoy, titled “Last Tango in Lavenham,” the wily antiques dealer successfully orchestrates the retrieval of a stolen Chippendale cabinet, exposing a network of crooked dealers and ultimately choosing a life of continued adventure rather than settling down with his long-term love interest, Charlotte Cavendish. This bittersweet ending encapsulates the essence of Lovejoy: forever bound to his passion for antiques and his irresistible inclination towards trouble, a romantic rogue until the very end.
Unraveling “Last Tango in Lavenham”
The episode opens with Lovejoy, played by the ever-charming Ian McShane, immersed in a classic antiques predicament. A priceless Chippendale cabinet, originally purchased legally by a wealthy client, has been stolen and is circulating within a shady ring of dealers operating in and around Lavenham. Lovejoy, never one to shy away from a challenge (especially when it involves a potential profit and the chance to outsmart a few criminals), embarks on a mission to recover the cabinet and expose the culprits.
His investigation leads him down a labyrinthine path filled with deceit, double-crossing, and the colourful characters that populate Lovejoy’s world. Tinker Dill, played by Dudley Sutton, is predictably involved, offering his unique (and often unreliable) expertise in identifying forged antiques. Eric Catchpole, the lovable but somewhat dim-witted assistant portrayed by Chris Jury, provides his usual blend of comic relief and surprisingly insightful observations.
The romantic subplot involving Charlotte Cavendish, played by Caroline Langrishe, reaches its zenith. Charlotte, tired of Lovejoy’s chaotic lifestyle and his inability to commit, presents him with an ultimatum: settle down with her and embrace a more conventional life, or risk losing her forever. This conflict forms the emotional core of the episode, forcing Lovejoy to confront his own desires and limitations.
The climax involves a tense confrontation at a local antiques fair. Lovejoy, using his cunning and knowledge of antiques, successfully exposes the masterminds behind the stolen cabinet ring. A clever sting operation, orchestrated with the help of Tinker and Eric, leads to their apprehension and the recovery of the stolen artifact.
However, the resolution to the criminal plot is overshadowed by Lovejoy’s decision regarding Charlotte. Ultimately, he recognizes that his inherent nature – his passion for the hunt, his love for the unexpected, and his inability to be tied down – makes a conventional relationship impossible. In a poignant final scene, Lovejoy says goodbye to Charlotte, acknowledging their deep affection but admitting that he cannot change who he is. He drives off into the sunset, ready for his next adventure, a lone wolf forever drawn to the allure of hidden treasures and the thrill of the chase.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Lovejoy Finale
Why did Lovejoy choose antiques over Charlotte?
Lovejoy’s decision was less about actively choosing antiques over Charlotte, and more about acknowledging his inherent nature. He realizes that his life revolves around the unpredictable world of antiques, the constant thrill of the discovery, and the freedom to pursue his own path. A committed relationship with Charlotte would require him to sacrifice a fundamental part of himself, which he ultimately found impossible. The antiques represented his very being.
Was there a specific reason “Last Tango in Lavenham” was chosen as the title?
The title alludes to the famous film “Last Tango in Paris,” suggesting a similar theme of raw emotion, difficult choices, and a certain level of desperation. Lavenham, a picturesque Suffolk village known for its antique shops, serves as the backdrop for this final dance between Lovejoy and the possibility of a more conventional life. It reflects the bittersweet reality that some passions, like a tango, are intense but ultimately fleeting.
What happened to Tinker Dill after the series ended?
While the series finale doesn’t explicitly address Tinker’s future, it is implied that he continues to be involved in the antiques world, likely alongside Lovejoy in some capacity. His knowledge and connections would make him an invaluable asset to any antiques dealer, and his loyalty (however flawed) to Lovejoy suggests they would continue to cross paths.
Did Eric Catchpole ever become a competent antiques dealer?
Eric’s journey throughout the series shows a gradual increase in his understanding of antiques, but his naiveté and occasional blunders remain a consistent source of comic relief. While he may not have reached the level of expertise of Lovejoy or Tinker, he developed a genuine passion for the field and likely continued to learn and improve over time. He likely stayed in the supporting role to Lovejoy.
Was the ending considered a satisfactory conclusion to the series?
Opinions on the ending are divided. Some viewers found it bittersweet and realistic, reflecting the complexities of Lovejoy’s character. Others felt disappointed that he didn’t choose Charlotte and settle down, seeing it as a rejection of personal growth. Ultimately, the ending stays true to the core themes of the series, emphasizing the allure of freedom and the pursuit of passion above all else.
Were there plans for more seasons of Lovejoy after the sixth season?
No. The sixth season, including “Last Tango in Lavenham,” was intended as the final season. Ian McShane reportedly felt that the character had run its course and was ready to move on to other projects.
Why did Phyllis Logan (Lady Jane Felsham) leave the show after Season 2?
Phyllis Logan’s character, Lady Jane Felsham, was written out of the show at the end of Season 2 due to scheduling conflicts with other acting commitments.
Is “Last Tango in Lavenham” considered one of the best Lovejoy episodes?
While it may not be universally regarded as the absolute best episode, “Last Tango in Lavenham” is undoubtedly a significant and memorable entry in the Lovejoy canon. Its emotional depth, thematic resonance, and satisfying (albeit bittersweet) resolution make it a fitting conclusion to the series. Many consider it essential viewing for fans of the show.
Can I still watch Lovejoy online?
Yes. Lovejoy is generally available for streaming on various platforms depending on your region, including BritBox, Amazon Prime Video (often as an add-on subscription), and sometimes on public broadcasting websites. Checking your local streaming services is the best approach.
What made Lovejoy such a popular television show?
Lovejoy‘s popularity stemmed from a unique blend of factors: Ian McShane’s charismatic portrayal of the roguish antiques dealer, the intriguing world of antiques with its hidden histories and potential for profit (or loss), the blend of comedy, drama, and mystery, and the relatable characters that populated Lovejoy’s world. The show offered a captivating escape into a world of charm, intrigue, and adventure.
What are some similar television shows that Lovejoy fans might enjoy?
Fans of Lovejoy might enjoy shows like Minder (another British dramedy featuring a charming rogue), Lovejoy’s often compared to The Rockford Files (an American private investigator series with a similar tone), and Jonathan Creek (a British mystery series with a puzzle-solving protagonist). Shows that deal with historical investigation or uncovering secrets, such as Antiques Roadshow, might also be of interest.
Will there ever be a Lovejoy reboot or revival?
While there have been occasional rumors and discussions about a potential Lovejoy reboot, nothing concrete has materialized. Ian McShane has expressed reservations about revisiting the character, feeling that the original series captured a specific time and place. However, given the enduring popularity of the show, the possibility of a reboot, perhaps with a new actor in the lead role, cannot be entirely ruled out.