Article Overview
"Ozark ended in 2022, surprising fans who thought the show had potential for future seasons. It was praised for its strong writing and performances."
The creators of the show decided to conclude it after its fourth season in order to have a final season that is larger in scale, instead of dividing the storyline. The show had the chance to tie up any loose ends.
Although the show ended on a positive and satisfying note, there is still a possibility of a spinoff in the future due to unresolved subplots. However, any spinoff would have to be separate and different from the original series.
Ozark, a highly popular Netflix series, captivated audiences with its four seasons of entertainment. However, fans were taken aback when the show concluded in 2022. The series revolved around Jason Bateman's character, Marty Byrde, who relocates to the Ozarks to launder a drug cartel's money in order to protect his family from enemies. With its emphasis on characters, the show received widespread acclaim for its exceptional writing and powerful performances.
The conclusion of Ozark season 4 left viewers somewhat surprised, as there seemed to be potential for the show to continue in the future. While it provided a more definitive ending than most Netflix originals, some plot threads felt rushed and certain subplots could have extended into another season. Nevertheless, the creators of Ozark have been transparent about their decision to end the series where they did.
Ozark Wasn't Canceled & Ended On Its Own Terms
The creators of Ozark made the decision to bring the show to a close after its fourth season. When discussing their choice with THR, the production team revealed that originally, Ozark was planned to run for five seasons. However, while crafting the fourth season, they ultimately concluded that it would be better to have one final season that is longer than splitting the story into two. This decision highlights the remarkable success of the show, as not all Netflix original series are afforded the same opportunity. Fortunately, this allowed Ozark ample time to tie up all loose ends before its conclusion.
Ozark's Story Can Still Continue Beyond Season 4
Following the conclusion of Ozark season 3, it was decided to combine seasons four and five due to the show's natural ending. Contrary to speculation among some viewers, Netflix did not exert any pressure on the writers to make this decision, and the creators have consistently expressed satisfaction with the show's outcome. While there were areas that could have been further explored, the team likely aimed to prevent unnecessary prolongation of the series until its momentum inevitably dissipated. Therefore, Ozark concluded on a high note.
However, with the unresolved subplots remaining, such as the future of the Byrde family and the FBI investigation into the cartel, there is always a possibility for Ozark to make a comeback. Furthermore, the creators themselves have shown interest in a potential spinoff in the future (via TV Line). Despite the shocking demise of several important characters in the final season, there are still enough surviving characters that could make a spinoff a promising idea. However, it is crucial for any spinoffs to have a distinct identity from the original series to avoid detracting from the satisfying conclusion of Ozark.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z fan, I have mixed feelings about the conclusion of Ozark after season 4. On the one hand, I am satisfied with the way the show ended. It was a natural conclusion to the story, and it tied up all of the loose ends. On the other hand, I feel like there was still more story to tell. I would have liked to see more of the Byrde family's life after they left the Ozarks. I also would have liked to see more of the FBI investigation into the cartel.
Overall, I think Ozark was a great show, and I am happy with the way it ended. However, I would not be opposed to seeing a spinoff in the future. I think there is still more story to tell in the world of Ozark.