Penn Badgley's "You" Finale: Insights & Afterthoughts On Joe Goldberg

Can an actor ever truly shake off the skin of a character, especially one as darkly captivating as Joe Goldberg? Penn Badgley, the man behind the chillingly charming serial killer in Netflix's hit series "You," is determined to try, even as he grapples with the bittersweet farewell to the role that has defined a significant chapter of his career.

As "You" prepares for its fifth and final season, Badgley is opening up about his complex relationship with Joe Goldberg, a character he has embodied with unnerving precision. Hes shared his conflicted emotions about bidding adieu to this complex figure and, perhaps more importantly, his firm resolve to distance himself from playing serial killers in the future. The actor, known for his thoughtful and introspective nature, has been navigating the delicate balance of understanding and portraying a character whose actions are morally reprehensible, all while ensuring that the audience doesn't inadvertently romanticize his dark deeds. Badgley has always maintained that Joe Goldberg is not a character to be admired, but rather a cautionary tale about the dangers of obsession and unchecked privilege. Hes been a vocal critic of the romanticization of toxic masculinity, using his platform to dissect and deconstruct the very appeal that Joe Goldberg seems to hold for some viewers. This final season promises to be a reckoning, a culmination of Joe's twisted journey, and a definitive statement on the consequences of his actions. But beyond the narrative closure, it also marks a personal turning point for Penn Badgley, an opportunity to redefine himself beyond the shadow of Joe Goldberg and explore new creative avenues.