The last episode of The Mentalist, titled “Blue Bird,” aired on February 18, 2015, concluding the series’ seven-season run. This episode saw Patrick Jane and Teresa Lisbon finally solidify their relationship while taking down a dangerous killer, bringing a sense of closure to the characters and the show’s overarching narrative.
The Road to “Blue Bird”: A Final Chapter
The seventh season of The Mentalist took a significantly different turn than previous seasons. Jane (Simon Baker) and Lisbon (Robin Tunney) were now a couple, openly exploring their romantic relationship while still navigating the complexities of their work with the FBI. The final season focused less on long-running, serial killer plots and more on case-of-the-week scenarios, allowing the show to delve deeper into the personal lives and emotional journeys of its core characters.
“Blue Bird” encapsulated this shift, presenting a standalone case that served as a backdrop for Jane and Lisbon’s evolving relationship. The episode centered around the murder of a guest staying at the same hotel where Jane and Lisbon were vacationing. As they investigated, they uncovered a complex web of deceit and betrayal, ultimately leading them to a ruthless killer. However, the case was ultimately a vehicle for the more significant emotional beats that drove the finale.
The Resolution of Jane and Lisbon’s Relationship
“Blue Bird” delivered on the promise of Jane and Lisbon’s relationship, providing viewers with the long-awaited commitment they had been waiting for. After Lisbon accepts a job in Washington, D.C., Jane dramatically proposes. This scene, filled with tenderness and genuine emotion, served as the emotional climax of the series. The episode ends with Jane and Lisbon learning they are expecting a child, a poignant closing that highlighted the potential for a happy and fulfilling future for the two characters. This ending offered a sense of finality and resolution that resonated with fans.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into The Mentalist Finale
Here are some frequently asked questions about the series finale of The Mentalist to further clarify details and address lingering curiosities:
1. Why was The Mentalist cancelled?
The official reason for the cancellation of The Mentalist was due to declining ratings. While the show had consistently been a strong performer in its early seasons, viewership had gradually decreased over time. CBS ultimately decided to end the series after seven seasons.
2. Who was the killer in “Blue Bird”?
The killer in “Blue Bird” was Bill Peterson, a seemingly innocuous hotel employee. He was revealed to be involved in a larger conspiracy and ultimately responsible for the murder that Jane and Lisbon were investigating.
3. Did Red John appear in the finale?
No, Red John did not appear in the finale. The Red John storyline concluded in Season 6, and the final season focused on Jane and Lisbon’s personal lives and their work on standalone cases. Bringing Red John back would have undermined the closure that storyline had already achieved.
4. Was the ending of The Mentalist satisfying for fans?
Fan reaction to the finale was mixed. While many viewers appreciated the happy ending for Jane and Lisbon, some felt that the case-of-the-week format detracted from the overall impact of the final season. However, most fans agreed that the resolution of Jane and Lisbon’s relationship was a satisfying culmination of their journey.
5. What happened to the other characters in the finale?
The finale offered glimpses into the futures of other characters, although the focus remained primarily on Jane and Lisbon. Cho (Tim Kang) continued his work with the FBI, maintaining his stoic demeanor and dedication to justice. Wylie (Joe Adler) remained a valued member of the team, showcasing his technological expertise.
6. Did Jane ever find true happiness after Lisbon?
The show strongly implies that Jane found true happiness with Lisbon. Her ability to see past his cynicism and his unwavering loyalty to her offered a future he had never imagined for himself. The pregnancy announcement cemented this, symbolizing new beginnings and a future filled with love and family.
7. Was there a spin-off planned for The Mentalist?
There were no official spin-off plans announced or developed for The Mentalist. While the characters and world had potential for further exploration, CBS opted to end the series completely rather than pursue a spin-off.
8. What was the significance of the title “Blue Bird”?
The title “Blue Bird” is likely a reference to the symbolism of bluebirds representing happiness and good fortune. This ties into the happy ending Jane and Lisbon receive, suggesting a bright future for them both. The “bluebird of happiness” is a recurring motif in literature and folklore, often representing the elusive pursuit of joy and fulfillment.
9. How did Jane change throughout the series?
Jane underwent a significant transformation throughout The Mentalist. Initially driven by revenge after the murder of his wife and daughter, he gradually learned to trust and open himself up to others. His relationship with Lisbon played a crucial role in this change, helping him to heal and find purpose beyond his desire for retribution.
10. What made Jane and Lisbon’s relationship so compelling?
Jane and Lisbon’s relationship was compelling due to its slow burn and genuine emotional connection. Their professional partnership provided a foundation of respect and trust, which gradually evolved into a deep and abiding love. Their contrasting personalities and the challenges they faced together made their relationship all the more relatable and engaging for viewers.
11. Was the pregnancy planned from the beginning of the season?
While it’s difficult to say definitively whether the pregnancy was planned from the beginning of the season, it served as a powerful and fitting conclusion to Jane and Lisbon’s story. It offered a sense of hope and optimism for the future, suggesting that they had finally found the happiness they had both been searching for. The decision to include the pregnancy likely solidified during the writing process for the final episodes.
12. Where can I watch “Blue Bird” and the rest of The Mentalist?
The Mentalist is available to stream on various platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max (Max), and Peacock, depending on your region and subscription status. You can also purchase episodes or seasons through digital retailers like iTunes and Google Play. Be sure to check availability in your country.