The final episode of Major Crimes, titled “By Any Means: Part 4,” aired on January 9, 2018, and centered around the resolution of the Phillip Stroh saga, a long-standing nemesis of the Major Crimes division. The episode culminates in Stroh’s death and a poignant farewell to Sharon Raydor, whose unexpected passing creates a profound shift in the team’s dynamic and future.
Understanding “By Any Means: Part 4”: A Deeper Dive
The concluding installment of Major Crimes’ six-season run wasn’t just a procedural wrap-up; it was a carefully orchestrated blend of suspense, grief, and acceptance. It delivered closure to a primary arc while simultaneously acknowledging the impermanence of life and the enduring strength of family – both biological and chosen.
The episode hinges on several critical plot points:
- The Pursuit and Capture of Phillip Stroh: After years of evading justice, Stroh’s final act of defiance involves a meticulously planned escape and a desperate attempt to disappear. The Major Crimes division, led by Raydor, meticulously unravels his scheme, culminating in a dramatic confrontation.
- Stroh’s Demise: While attempting to escape capture after killing his accomplice, Stroh is ultimately killed by Rusty Beck. This resolution finally closes the Stroh chapter, bringing a sense of justice and relief to the team.
- Sharon Raydor’s Untimely Death: In a shocking turn of events, Raydor suffers a sudden heart attack and passes away unexpectedly, leaving the team devastated and facing an uncertain future.
- The Team’s Response and Legacy: The episode concludes with the team grappling with Raydor’s death, mourning their loss, and recognizing the impact she had on their lives, both professionally and personally. The final scenes showcase their resilience and commitment to continuing her legacy.
The episode is notable for its willingness to take risks, departing from the typical procedural format and delivering a raw and emotionally resonant conclusion. The sudden and unexpected death of Captain Raydor served as a pivotal moment, forcing viewers and characters alike to confront the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing relationships.
FAQs About the Major Crimes Finale
These frequently asked questions explore various aspects of the series finale, providing clarity and context for fans and newcomers alike.
H3: Why did Major Crimes end with season 6?
The show was canceled due to declining ratings and a desire from TNT to shift towards a different programming strategy, focusing on edgier and darker dramas. The network wanted to move away from the more traditional procedural format of Major Crimes. The cancellation came as a surprise to many, given the show’s solid fanbase.
H3: Was the Stroh storyline intended to be the series’ last arc?
While the writers had plans beyond season 6, the Stroh storyline provided a natural and fitting conclusion to many of the show’s long-running themes. The final confrontation with Stroh allowed for closure on his manipulative and dangerous character, offering a resolution that fans had been anticipating for years.
H3: Why did they kill off Sharon Raydor in the final episode?
This was a controversial decision. According to creator James Duff, the writers wanted to explore the impact of unexpected loss and the fragility of life. They wanted to demonstrate how even the strongest leaders can be vulnerable and how a team can come together to persevere through immense grief. While many viewers found Raydor’s death shocking and upsetting, it served to highlight her profound influence on the Major Crimes unit.
H3: How did the actors feel about the ending?
Most of the cast members expressed sadness at the show’s cancellation, but also appreciation for the opportunity to work on Major Crimes. Mary McDonnell, who played Sharon Raydor, has publicly discussed the emotional impact of filming her character’s death scene, emphasizing the importance of honoring Raydor’s legacy.
H3: What happens to Rusty Beck after Raydor’s death?
Rusty, who had become Raydor’s adopted son, is left to navigate life without her guidance. However, the team rallies around him, providing emotional support and ensuring he is not alone. While his future is not explicitly detailed in the finale, it is implied that he will continue to pursue his education and build a life grounded in the values Raydor instilled in him.
H3: Did the cancellation affect the planned storylines for future seasons?
Yes, the cancellation significantly altered the trajectory of the series. The writers had envisioned exploring new cases and developing the characters further. Several planned storylines were cut short, and new arcs were never realized due to the show’s abrupt end.
H3: How did the show address the absence of Provenza’s wife, Patrice?
Patrice Provenza, who was sporadically mentioned but never seen on screen, remained an unseen presence throughout the series. Her absence was never directly addressed in the finale, maintaining the running gag about Provenza’s off-screen marriage.
H3: Was there any talk of a Major Crimes spin-off or revival?
While there have been occasional rumors of a potential revival or spin-off, no concrete plans have materialized. The complex legal rights surrounding the original series and the actors’ availability have likely contributed to the lack of progress in this area.
H3: What are the main themes explored in the final episode?
The finale explores themes of loss, grief, resilience, justice, and the enduring power of family. It highlights the importance of cherishing relationships, facing adversity with courage, and honoring the legacies of those who have shaped our lives. The importance of teamwork is also emphasized, particularly in the face of immense tragedy.
H3: How does the Major Crimes finale compare to the ending of The Closer?
While both shows focused on solving complex crimes, their finales differed significantly in tone and resolution. The Closer‘s finale offered a more optimistic ending, with Brenda Leigh Johnson making a difficult but ultimately personal decision to leave her job. In contrast, Major Crimes delivered a more somber and bittersweet conclusion, emphasizing the unexpected nature of life and the enduring impact of loss.
H3: What is the significance of the title, “By Any Means: Part 4”?
The title “By Any Means: Part 4” underscores the lengths to which both Phillip Stroh and the Major Crimes division were willing to go to achieve their respective goals. Stroh was determined to escape justice by any means necessary, while the team was equally committed to bringing him to justice, regardless of the personal sacrifices involved.
H3: What is the lasting impact of Major Crimes on the procedural drama genre?
Major Crimes distinguished itself within the procedural drama landscape through its focus on complex characters, morally ambiguous situations, and realistic portrayals of law enforcement. The show explored the psychological toll of crime on both the victims and the investigators, offering a nuanced and thought-provoking perspective on the criminal justice system. The series demonstrated that procedural dramas could be both entertaining and intellectually stimulating, paving the way for similar shows in the future.