Jodie Comer Reflects on the Divided Response to Villanelle's Fate in 'Killing Eve'
Just over two years after Killing Eve ended, Jodie Comer reflects on the controversial impact of Villanelle's demise. Based on Luke Jennings' novel series, the BBC drama depicted a sophisticated game of cat and mouse between Comer's quirky assassin and Sandra Oh's MI5 spy Eve Polastri. Killing Eve spanned four seasons and saw the couple transition from bitter foes to intricate partners, finding secret organizations involving many familiar individuals from their past.
With more than two years since Killing Eve ended, Comer spoke with The Playlist's The Discourse podcast about where the series left Villanelle. While the singer acknowledged that Villanelle's death had devastated some viewers, she praised the efforts of those involved and described how she felt the storyline kept true to the character's destiny, while thanking fans for their support. Check out Comer's explanation below.
"I understand there were a lot of upset supporters. And look, everyone on that program worked on it for four years and put a lot of effort into it. I believe [Villanelle] was like a cat with nine lives. And it seemed like it would always catch her in the end. And I'm very moved and touched that the fans have linked so strongly to it that their reaction to her death was visceral and not what they expected."
Villanelle's death is 'Killing Eve's most missed opportunity.
Despite coming from two radically different worlds, Villanelle and Eve's chemistry captivated many viewers, keeping them involved for 32 episodes and guessing if the couple might enter a better relationship or if their dynamic would end in blood and sorrow. Each character offered each other something they desired in life, such as an escape from the boredom Villanelle found herself locked in, while Eve is given the opportunity to be more outspoken and talkative. While the liberties they granted one another were not always exercised in a healthy manner, Killing Eve season 4's contentious finish presented an abrupt, somewhat jarring conclusion.
While Killing Eve's last episode, "Hello, Losers," would see the couple reach long-awaited common ground and bring the Twelve down, Villanelle is killed by sniper fire, leaving Eve traumatized. With both women finding happiness and then losing it at the end of the episode, the season's makers were quickly accused of perpetuating the "Bury Your Gays" cliche. Though Comer and Oh defend the Ending as inevitable, and season showrunner Laura Neal compares it to Eve's rebirth, the abrupt ending prevents the program from completely unpacking the implications and determining whether this journey had the desired effect on Eve.
Killing Eve's Legacy: A Show That Inspired, But Also Divided
Killing Eve, a black comedic thriller series starring Sandra Oh as British intelligence operative Eve Polastri, who is assigned to track down and apprehend a lethal assassin named Villanelle, played by Jodie Comer, had a turbulent run. The production was a critical and commercial triumph, with acclaim for its outstanding performances, engaging tale, and distinctive style. The series was especially well-received for its depiction of Eve and Villanelle's complex and often perilous relationship.
Many fans were profoundly dissatisfied with the show's finale. The dramatic finale, in which Villanelle dies, caused passionate Controversy among fans and critics. Some viewers thought the Ending was too sudden, while others regarded it as a suitable close to a show about the intricacies of human relationships. The show's history serves as a reminder of how powerful storytelling can be, motivating audiences while also sparking challenging conversations about representation, character arcs, and the expectations placed on characters.
The End of Killing Eve: A Deep Dive into the Series.
Despite the fact that Killing Eve's final episode aired two years ago, arguments concerning its finale are still intense. As new series have been released that focus on equally problematic LGBTQ relationships, Villanelle and Eve's ending has become increasingly apparent as a missed opportunity. While Comer remains solid in her interpretation of Villanelle's fate, it is evident that the actress understands why viewers were disappointed and is grateful for their passionate love of her eccentric assassin.
Killing Eve has made an unmistakable impression on the television world, highlighting the captivating interaction between two unique characters. The show delves into topics like as obsession, identity, and the fuzzy lines between good and evil. While the ending may have disappointed some viewers, Killing Eve is nonetheless a riveting and unforgettable series that sparked significant discussions about narrative, representation, and the intricacies of human relationships.
