The third season of the acclaimed series Yellowjackets has captivated audiences with its intense storytelling and harrowing moments. One particularly shocking scene from the episode titled “Thanksgiving” has left fans in disbelief, even eight months after its airing. The series, which follows a girls’ soccer team that becomes stranded and descends into chaos, continues to push the boundaries of drama and horror.
In “Thanksgiving,” the character Coach Ben finds himself in a desperate situation. Captured by the girls in the wilderness, his Achilles tendon has been severed, rendering him unable to escape. As he endures a hunger strike, pleading for death, the tension escalates. A vision of him as critical to the group’s survival has spared his life thus far, but the revelations of the episode underscore the girls’ descent into darkness.
Coach Ben’s Tragic Demise
The anticipated death of Coach Ben serves as a turning point in the season. While viewers had held onto hope for his survival, the brutal circumstances surrounding his demise were unexpected. By this episode, Ben is physically deteriorating; he has lost the use of his legs and has been unable to eat for days. His existence has become increasingly inhumane, leading to a heartbreaking decision made by Natalie, who shares a close bond with him. In an emotional act of mercy, she ends his suffering, which adds a layer of tragedy to an already grim scenario.
This moment not only highlights the psychological toll on the characters but also marks a significant shift in their moral compass. The once-innocent girls are now grappling with their survival instincts, leading to devastating actions that blur the lines of humanity.
The Disturbing Feast
Following Coach Ben’s death, the narrative takes an even darker turn. Shauna, one of the leading characters, punishes Natalie for her mercy killing by forcing her to prepare Ben’s body for a ritual feast. This act is framed as a way to honor the deceased, but it becomes clear that Shauna relishes her newfound dominance as “Queen of the Wilderness.” The scene reaches a grotesque climax during the feast, as the girls gather around to partake in a macabre celebration, complete with Ben’s severed head displayed prominently.
Lottie, another character, senses something is amiss and calls upon the wilderness for answers. This moment escalates into a chaotic display of primal screams, demonstrating the girls’ complete detachment from reality. Just as the scene reaches its peak, the appearance of new characters introduces a cliffhanger that raises questions about their intentions and the future of the remaining group.
The gruesome rituals and escalating madness serve to illustrate how far the girls have strayed from their former lives as ordinary teenagers. The juxtaposition of their horrific actions with the shock of outsiders witnessing their descent into cannibalism underscores the gravity of their transformation.
The impact of “Thanksgiving” resonates deeply with viewers, leaving a haunting impression that lingers long after the credits roll. As the series continues, fans remain eager to see how these developments will shape the characters and their fates in future episodes. With each passing moment, Yellowjackets solidifies its place as a bold exploration of survival, morality, and the lengths individuals will go when pushed to their limits.
