The recent episode of *Yellowjackets*, titled “Thanksgiving,” has left fans grappling with its shocking and brutal themes. In this pivotal moment from the show’s third season, Coach Ben faces a harrowing fate that underscores the series’ descent into darkness.
Casey Duby, a television writer and enthusiast, highlighted the emotional impact of this episode, describing it as one of the most disturbing moments in the series. The show, which follows a girls’ soccer team turned cannibals, has maintained a reputation for its intense and unsettling storytelling. However, “Thanksgiving” takes this to a new level, showcasing the depths of despair and moral decay within the group’s dynamics.
As the episode unfolds, Coach Ben, who has been captured by the girls, finds himself in a desperate situation. His Achilles tendon has been severed, rendering him unable to escape, and he has resorted to a hunger strike, pleading for death. Although a vision of him as crucial to their survival has spared his life temporarily, the reality of his condition becomes increasingly dire.
The portrayal of Coach Ben’s demise is both anticipated and horrific. Despite the ongoing suspense surrounding his potential survival, “Thanksgiving” delivers a brutal death scene that rivals some of the most shocking moments in television history, such as that of Glenn in *The Walking Dead*. By this point, Ben is physically and mentally exhausted, having suffered from malnutrition and inhumane treatment.
In a poignant turn, Natalie, who has always shared a closer bond with Ben, decides to end his suffering. In a swift act of mercy, she takes his life, a decision that reflects the tragic moral complexities faced by the characters. This act of compassion, however, spirals into further chaos as the group grapples with the consequences of their actions.
The episode escalates with the subsequent treatment of Ben’s body. Following his death, Shauna punishes Natalie by forcing her to prepare Ben’s remains for a ritual feast. This act is framed as a way to honor the fallen, but it becomes evident that Shauna revels in her role as the leader of this grim ritual.
The climax of the feast is nothing short of disturbing, with Ben’s severed head prominently displayed. In a moment of collective frenzy, the girls, led by Lottie, engage in a frenzied ritual, screaming at the wilderness in a display of madness. This scene, just before the credits roll, introduces new characters who witness this grotesque spectacle, highlighting the extremity of the group’s descent into barbarism.
As the episode concludes, viewers are left contemplating the implications of the girls’ actions and the arrival of these new figures. The moment serves not only as a cliffhanger but also as a stark reminder of the boundaries crossed in their struggle for survival.
The evolution of *Yellowjackets* continues to captivate audiences, pushing the limits of horror and moral ambiguity. With each episode, the series challenges viewers to confront the darker aspects of human nature, leaving an indelible mark on its audience.
