Earlier this month, the Epic Cons Chicago event witnessed a gathering of stars from some of the most beloved shows and films, including a reunion of the “Pretty Little Liars” cast. Troian Bellisario, Keegan Allen, Torrey DeVitto, and Ashley Benson graced the panel, delving into the drama and intrigue that characterized the iconic series, particularly leading up to its season finale in 2017.
Reflecting on the evolution of the show’s plot, Bellisario offered candid insights into the unexpected twists and turns that captivated audiences for seven riveting seasons. One of the most pivotal moments, as Bellisario recalled, was the revelation of Sasha Pieterse’s character, Alison DiLaurentis, being alive—a revelation that fundamentally altered the course of the series.
“When we found out she was still alive, it changed the whole fabric of the show because then there wasn’t just four of us, there was five,” Bellisario reminisced, highlighting the profound impact of DiLaurentis’ resurrection on the narrative trajectory of “Pretty Little Liars.”
The character of Alison DiLaurentis, originally presumed dead in the pilot episode, underwent a remarkable transformation as hints of her return were subtly woven into the storyline. Pieterse’s revival in Season 5 served as a shocking twist for both the cast and viewers alike, reshaping the dynamics of the core group of characters.
However, Bellisario also reflected on her own character’s journey, expressing her thoughts on the series finale and the introduction of Spencer’s identical twin, Alex Drake. While acknowledging the opportunity to portray such a complex character, Bellisario confessed to feeling that the reveal of Alex Drake in the final episode felt somewhat rushed.
“I wish that we had gotten to introduce Alex [Drake] a lot earlier,” Bellisario admitted. She suggested that Cece Drake, portrayed by Vanessa Ray, would have been a more fitting antagonist for the finale, given her established character development and connection to the overarching storyline.
Despite these sentiments, Bellisario expressed gratitude for the opportunity to delve into the intricate world of “Pretty Little Liars” and acknowledged the challenges of wrapping up the series within the constraints of a single episode.
As the “Pretty Little Liars” cast continues to reminisce about their time on the show, their insights offer fans a deeper understanding of the legacy and impact of this beloved teen drama. Through their reflections, the enduring allure of “Pretty Little Liars” is reaffirmed, reminding audiences of the enduring power of mystery, suspense, and friendship that defined the series.
