Joe Goldberg Reads Executioner's Song, Reflecting Redemption Journey

The final season of Netflix's 'You' sees Joe Goldberg finally facing justice as he is arrested and sentenced to life in prison for his many crimes, bringing his story full circle. In the series finale, Joe is depicted reading 'The Executioner's Song' by Norman Mailer, a true-crime novel about Gary Gilmore, a convicted murderer who insisted on his own execution. This choice of book is deliberately symbolic, drawing parallels between Joe and Gilmore—both are killers, but while Gilmore embraced his punishment, Joe is left to endure the consequences of his actions in isolation. The finale emphasizes that Joe, who once manipulated his narrative and evaded accountability, is now forced to confront the reality of his deeds without escape or redemption. The show's producers intended for the ending to strip away any lingering audience sympathy for Joe, highlighting his true, horrific nature. Ultimately, the series closes on a somber note, leaving viewers to reflect on the consequences of Joe's choices and the unsettling silence that now defines his life.