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Note: This story contains spoilers from “You” Season 5, Episodes 9-10.
The conclusion of “You” has brought Joe Goldberg’s dark journey to a head, culminating in his consequential reckoning. Tati Gabrielle’s character, Marienne, makes a significant return, allowing her to confront the past and seek justice after her traumatic experiences in Seasons 3 and 4.
Gabrielle elaborates on Marienne’s healing journey, explaining that her character has intentionally worked on overcoming her past trauma. The severity of her experiences—being drugged, kidnapped, and kept in a cage by Joe (Penn Badgley)—weighs heavily on her as she navigates this complex emotional landscape.
In the ninth episode of Season 5, Marienne, alongside Kate (Charlotte Ritchie) and Nadia (Amy-Leigh Hickman), finds herself in a pivotal role reversal as they confine Joe in his own cage. Gabrielle underscores the empowerment this shift represents, allowing the women to condemn Joe and challenge his self-perception as a savior.
During a critical conversation with Bronte, Marienne asserts that Joe is not the hero Bronte imagines him to be. Gabrielle emphasizes that this interaction helps to heal some of Marienne’s own unresolved issues, providing both characters with a renewed sense of strength and purpose.
In a discussion about portraying Marienne’s return, Gabrielle aimed to balance her character’s strength with vulnerability, highlighting that powerful women can also experience pain and fear. She remarks on how Marienne’s journey is not just about being resilient but also about acknowledging her own struggles.
TheWrap: How did you want to portray Marienne’s return?
Gabrielle discusses her desire to depict Marienne as resilient yet affected by her past. She notes that media often portrays strong women in a way that ignores their vulnerability. By showing Marienne’s hesitation when confronting her former captor, Gabrielle aims for authenticity in showcasing her character’s emotional turmoil.
In Episode 9, Marienne, Nadia, and Kate flip the script and have Joe in the cage. What did that reversal feel like?
Gabrielle recalls the exhilaration of that scene, expressing relief at the role reversal. Being able to depict the strength of three women—each with distinct backgrounds and experiences—highlights the varied ways individuals can reclaim their power from abusive situations.
Marienne has a very frank conversation with Bronte. Do you think she got through to her? Why do you think she took this approach?
While Gabrielle acknowledges that it’s uncertain whether Marienne fully reached Bronte, she believes Marienne’s compassionate approach allowed for a more constructive conversation. By presenting the facts without judgment, Marienne empowers Bronte to make her own decisions, fostering an environment of understanding rather than condemnation.
I know the last time we spoke you mentioned Marienne said she wanted justice, not revenge, but she agrees to let Kate try to kill Joe. Do you think her thoughts have changed since then?
Gabrielle suggests that Marienne’s feelings may have shifted in the moment, as her desire for vengeance emerged from a place of anger. Given the lengthy trauma she endured, she now values the idea of Joe reflecting on his actions while imprisoned over a more immediate form of justice.
At the end of the season, it ended up being Bronte who takes Joe to justice. Was there any part of you that wishes it was Marienne who got that pleasure?
Gabrielle expresses a mixed perspective, recognizing that while a part of her wished Marienne could confront Joe directly, she understands that Marienne’s personal journey has taken precedence. Ultimately, her character seeks peace and stability for herself and her daughter, rather than engaging in vindictiveness.
What do you think Marienne thought when she saw the news of Joe’s arrest?
Gabrielle speculates that Marienne may have experienced a wave of emotions upon hearing about Joe’s arrest. She likely hopes for closure and has taken steps to heal, perhaps even starting to share her experiences with her daughter, Julliette. Marienne’s path forward involves processing her past while finding strength in her new reality.
Marienne had some complicated feelings about Kate last season. Do you think Marienne has forgiven Kate for the role she played in letting Joe live a happy life?
Gabrielle believes that Marienne is predisposed to forgive, particularly as she understands the complexities of relationships affected by manipulation. Her own journey towards redemption allows her to be empathetic towards Kate, recognizing their shared experiences shaped by their entanglement with Joe.
What are your wishes and hopes for Marienne after these events?
Gabrielle hopes that Marienne finds peace and a strong sense of self-worth after all she has endured. Achieving a balance of stability in her life, free from the shadows of her past, is essential for her continued growth and happiness.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
“You” Seasons 1-5 are now streaming on Netflix.
Source
www.thewrap.com