The Yellowjackets Season 3 finale, titled “Full Circle,” has left fans with a mix of satisfaction and intrigue, offering major revelations and emotional payoffs while still leaving plenty of questions unanswered. Co-creators Ashley Lyle and Bart Nickerson spoke to Deadline about the intricate process of bringing key plot points full circle, including the long-awaited identification of “Pit Girl” and the “Antler Queen,” while also teasing what lies ahead.
One of the most impactful moments was the reveal that Mari was the long-mystery “Pit Girl,” and Teen Shauna was the infamous “Antler Queen.” This return to the show’s roots was both thrilling and challenging for the creators. Nickerson explained, “Landing back at the beginning while opening a new path was really fun and really challenging.” These elements were woven back into the story with deep emotional resonance, particularly with the haunting consequences of the “pit” incident, which culminates in Mari’s death and the eerie feast that follows.
In the present timeline, Misty uncovers the shocking truth that Callie, Shauna’s daughter, was responsible for killing Adult Lottie, leading to Jeff and Callie’s flight from the chaos. This revelation opens up new questions about Callie’s future. Lyle reflects on this twist, pondering, “How much is she like her mother? Is it nature versus nurture?” This exploration into Callie’s evolving identity promises to be a focal point moving forward.
Shauna’s emotional journey also reaches a powerful turning point. After spending much of the season struggling to fulfill the role of a “good wife and mother,” she finally faces the reality of her true nature. Lyle describes this moment as both “grief and liberation,” marking a major shift for her character—one of letting go of an idealized version of herself in favor of embracing who she really is.
The finale ends on a note of hope, with Teen Natalie managing to place a call for help, signaling the possibility of a rescue, but Nickerson warns fans not to expect a swift return to normalcy: “We’ve always felt part of the story needs to be told after their return, but we don’t know when we’ll get there.” This implies that while the survivors’ eventual rescue is on the horizon, it may not happen as quickly as fans would like.
As the finale concludes one chapter, the road ahead is still shrouded in mystery. With Shauna’s self-reckoning, Callie’s uncertain future, and the long journey to salvation yet to unfold, the Yellowjackets saga promises more twists and turns as it explores the complexities of survival, identity, and the trauma that continues to haunt its characters. Fans can rest assured that the wild ride is far from over.
