Penn Badgley returns for one final, chilling turn as Joe Goldberg in the fifth and concluding season of Netflix’s psychological thriller You. After a twisted path of love, obsession, and murder across cities and continents, Joe is back in New York City where it all began. Now married to wealthy businesswoman Kate Lockwood (Charlotte Ritchie) and raising his son Henry, Joe seems to be living a picture-perfect life.
Joe’s Old Habits Resurface
Despite the luxury and status, Joe’s demons resurface. He begins an affair with a mysterious woman named Bronte, played by Madeline Brewer. However, midway through the season, it’s revealed that Bronte is actually Louise a woman with a personal vendetta. Louise is connected to Joe’s first victim, Beck (Elizabeth Lail), and has spent years trying to prove his guilt. Teaming up with online sleuths, she sets a trap.
This moment gonna be wild.#youseason5 pic.twitter.com/b5s8SA1Zsh
— Snctr (@CBACTU) March 17, 2025
Joe is finally caught on camera committing murder. The incriminating footage is leaked online, destroying his public image. The media dubs him “Joe Goldmurderer,” and his double life begins to crumble.
Love, Betrayal, and Justice Served
Though Louise starts developing feelings for Joe, she remains determined to expose him. She agrees to flee with him to a remote location, where she confronts him about Beck’s death. A violent scuffle ensues, leaving both wounded but this time, Joe doesn’t get away.
Also Read: The Killer’s Confession: Joe Goldberg’s most Sinister Dialogues from You Season 5
The final scenes show Joe in prison, shaved head and orange uniform, still detached from the consequences of his actions. Reading letters from admirers, he questions whether society is the real problem. With Radiohead’s “Creep” playing in the background, Joe chillingly declares, “Maybe the problem isn’t me… maybe it’s you.”
You Season 5 marks a fittingly dark and thought-provoking end to Joe Goldberg’s twisted tale.
