'Our Flag Means Death' Team Reflects on the Season 2 Finale, [SPOILER]'s Farewell, and Future Plans

Editor's note: The interview below contains spoilers for the Season 2 finale of Our Flag Means Death.

There was never any doubt that the thrilling finale of Our Flag Means Death Season 2 would leave us on an emotional rollercoaster. Show creator David Jenkins and writer John Mahone, who collaborated on the script for the last episode, were determined to extract as many tears as possible from the viewers. With Stede (Rhys Darby) and Ed's (Taika Waititi) relationship strained in the second-to-last episode of the season, it was uncertain how, or if, the two men would reconcile. However, a new threat to the Republic of Pirates and Ed's realization that fishing may not be his true calling bring the two back together, both figuratively and literally.

In the Season 2 finale, while some characters find a semblance of a happy ending, with Stede and Ed deciding to become innkeepers as they watch the Revenge sail away under Frenchie's command, not all of the crew members survive the final battle unharmed. One such crew member is Ed's former ruthless right-hand, Izzy Hands, whose parting words to Ed serve as a turning point for the former Blackbeard to fully accept the man he truly is.

Before the Season 2 finale aired on Max, we had the chance to speak with Jenkins about some of the most significant moments in the episode. In the interview below, Jenkins discusses the significance of Izzy's speech as both a tribute to the character and a reflection of the show itself. He also explores how the beach scenes at the beginning and end of Season 2 frame the story, and why he chose to feature a Nina Simone song at a specific moment. Additionally, he shares insights on why the season concludes with a wedding at sea and what viewers can expect in Season 3.

On our website, my initial question is somewhat sarcastic: how do you have the audacity? And my immediate follow-up is: what justifies your authority?

DAVID JENKINS: I apologize, I apologize. Additionally, I hold the role of God over these beings! Nevertheless, it was a difficult decision.

The episode begins with a slightly lighter moment, as Ed comes to the realization that he is not suited for the fishing life after all. Following Stede and Ed's previous argument in the previous episode, why was it important for Ed to comically realize that this is not what he truly desires?

Jenkins: I believe Season 1 revolves around Stede's midlife crisis, while Season 2 focuses on Ed's midlife crisis. I enjoy the idea of Ed having a moment where he believes he can lead a simple life, only for it to be revealed that he is actually a complicated, picky, and moody person. He is not cut out to be a professional fisherman. Despite not wanting it to be true, he is told that deep down, he is a pirate and must return to that life.

Izzy's speech about piracy, belonging, and finding family serves as the thesis statement of the show. Was this the intended purpose behind it?

JENKINS: When I wrote that, my intention was to create a proper eulogy for Izzy. Although he is giving a eulogy for himself, it felt genuine to write it that way. In the first season, Izzy would have viewed piracy as a means to dominate others and make them work for the boss. However, through his journey in the second season, he realizes that the pirate crew is different. They have supported him by building him a unicorn leg, teaching him to whittle, and mentoring him. He now understands that they work together and do things for the sake of each other. Therefore, it feels fitting for Izzy's character development and also reflects an overall theme of the show.

Image via Max

It's intriguing that you refer to it as a eulogy, because when we reach the point where we realize Izzy won't survive, it appears that he prioritizes his remaining moments for Ed's benefit rather than his own. His parting words to Ed, "They admire you for who you truly are. Just stay true to yourself, Ed," serve as a message that Ed may need to hear in that moment, especially as he grapples with the impending loss of someone he has known for a significant period of time, perhaps even longer than Stede, and shares a deep emotional bond with.

JENKINS: I appreciate the gesture from Izzy in acknowledging their role in embracing Blackbeard. By apologizing and admitting that they both contributed to Blackbeard's existence, it validates Ed's efforts. The phrase "we were Blackbeard" signifies that Izzy also identifies as Blackbeard, emphasizing that Blackbeard is not solely Ed's creation. I find this particularly significant for Ed because he has worked tirelessly towards this realization. Moreover, Izzy encourages Ed to let go of Blackbeard, as it is their joint effort, and as Izzy is approaching death, there can never be a Blackbeard again according to their perspective.

Moving on, I wanted to discuss the reunion between Stede and Ed. First, we witness Ed discovering the love letter written by Stede in the earlier stages. Then, we have the beach fight and subsequent reunion. This sequence serves as a reminiscent nod to the dream and fantasy elements seen throughout the season. Was this intentional to bookend the season? Presenting the dream as the beginning and the reunion as the authentic moment to conclude the storyline?

JENKINS: The Republic of Pirates was a key element for me. I wanted to begin and end with it, and the reunion of the pirates felt like a delightful surprise that was perfectly fitting. Discovering the letter in a bottle was inevitable - if it's thrown out somewhere, it's bound to resurface eventually. We had to witness one of them stumble upon it. There's a cyclical nature to this story, which is why I felt it was important to feature Nina Simone's music both at the beginning and the end as a callback. This dream, in this particular way, truly came true, and they made it happen.

Image via Max

When we spoke earlier in the season, you mentioned the Nina Simone needle drop, but were unable to explain its significance at the time. I also spoke with music supervisor Maggie Phillips about the needle drops in Season 2, and she mentioned that you always had a clear vision for the songs you wanted to use. Many people are familiar with the original version, but what led you to choose Nina's cover? It sets a different tone; there is a sense of hopefulness in many ways.

JENKINS: Yes, it has a wistful quality to it. There is a beautiful section that resembles the sound of church bells, which works well for the wedding scene, and the overall song is deeply moving. I adore Nina's interpretation of it. It captures a wistful, positive feeling, and it felt like the perfect ending for the show. The song has a grandness to it that, when paired with the accompanying visuals, made me think, "Yes, this would be perfect. I want this in the show."

I wanted to ask you about the wedding because after Izzy's death, it's both sad and joyful. It symbolizes how this crew has become a family, finding happiness and reasons to celebrate even amidst tragedy. We've witnessed Black Pete and Lucius's reconnection, their ability to resolve conflicts and navigate through Lucius's issues, and their journey as a couple alongside Stede and Ed. Did you always plan to conclude the season with their wedding?

JENKINS: Yes, we always intended to include a matelotage in the season, which was the term used to describe crew members getting married. Black Pete and Lucius have always served as a contrast to Stede and Ed, being more open about their feelings. Including familial events like a funeral and a wedding, and having the parents witness the children's departure, felt right. All these elements worked well together and built upon each other.

Speaking about Ed and Stede watching everyone sail away, it was a rather surprising outcome. One would think that they would join the rest and sail off too. However, instead, it was a delightful and heartwarming experience for them to have the opportunity to live together and play house for a while. What led to this unexpected change in their dynamic?

JENKINS: I believe they have reached a point in their relationship where they have decided to give it a chance. This is where the story truly becomes captivating. The uncertainty of whether they will or will not be together is intriguing up to a certain extent, but the real substance lies in whether they can build a successful relationship and surpass the bond shared by Anne and Mary. This is the question we all ask ourselves when we enter a committed relationship: Can we make it work? Can we overcome the challenges? Both Ed and Stede have their own scars, making it a true test for them, and that is where the story takes an intriguing turn.

I'm unsure about the extent of what can be revealed for Season 3, but we previously discussed your clear vision for the direction of the show. Based on the events at the end of Season 2, it seems implied that Stede and Ed will embark on a journey together. However, I am curious if the plan is to also continue exploring the journeys of the other characters in their respective locations.

JENKINS: Yes, indeed. Frenchie will be taking charge of the Revenge, and I believe Frenchie's Revenge would be an intriguing workplace and a captivating target for raids. Additionally, the Revenge holds significant value for Stede, making it incredibly difficult for him to part ways with it. Considering his past tendencies, letting go hasn't been his strong suit. Therefore, I believe the odds of the characters eventually reuniting are highly likely.

All episodes of Our Flag Means Death Season 2 are available to stream on Max.