The finale of Hulu’s Good American Family reveals the harsh realities faced by Natalia Grace as her hopes for justice are dashed in a court system that fails to recognize her truth. Michael Barnett, portrayed by Mark Duplass, is acquitted of all charges of child abuse, primarily because Natalia is referred to as a "person who was born in 1989," effectively excluding much of her time with the Barnetts due to the statute of limitations. This legal loophole prevents any reference to her true age and the abuse she suffered as a child, leaving viewers frustrated and questioning the justice system.
Showrunners Katie Robbins and Sarah Sutherland hope that the finale will prompt viewers to reflect on their own biases and the implications of the story. Robbins stated, "The empirical facts around Natalia, specifically her genetic age, did not matter in the court of law, which is terrifying and should concern everyone regarding the justice system." Sutherland added that the situation would have likely never occurred if not for Natalia’s disability, which played a significant role in how she was perceived and treated.
Initially, the audience sees Natalia through the lens of Kristine and Michael Barnett, who adopt her when she is seven years old. As the series progresses, it shifts to Natalia’s perspective, allowing viewers to understand her as an emotional person rather than a mere object of fear. This transition is crucial, as Robbins noted, "Once we flip and are suddenly living with her on her own as a character…suddenly we are with her as an emotional person." This change in viewpoint cultivates empathy for Natalia, who is ultimately revealed to be a vulnerable child.
In the finale, as the court case unfolds, Natalia confronts Michael, expressing her desire for him to acknowledge his complicity in her suffering. Robbins remarked that Michael experiences fleeting moments of realization about his actions, but ultimately, he justifies them, reflecting a common human tendency to cast oneself as the hero in their own narrative.
One of the most poignant moments for Kristine, played by Ellen Pompeo, occurs when she is confronted with the reality of her actions. Her son Jacob, portrayed by Aaron Potter, apologizes to Natalia, saying, "She made us scared of you. But you were just a kid. I shouldn’t have listened. I’m very sorry." This moment serves as a glimmer of hope amid the darkness of the narrative, suggesting that perhaps the cycle of trauma can be broken.
Despite the heavy themes, the finale concludes on a hopeful note. After losing her case, Natalia returns home to find her new adopted siblings showing her supportive comments from viewers online. "I may not have won the case, but I’ve won the court of public opinion," she realizes, a powerful affirmation of her worth and the love she longs for.
Imogen Faith Reid, who plays Natalia, reflected on the challenges of portraying such a complex character. "At first, I didn’t know what was true and what wasn’t," she admitted. Reid aimed to bring empowerment and justice to her portrayal, hoping that Natalia would see the passion she invested in the role. She emphasized the importance of representation for people with disabilities in media, sharing her hope that Good American Family will pave the way for more inclusive casting in the industry.
The series, which began its journey in 2020, sought to explore the multifaceted nature of truth and belief. Robbins noted, "With any story, you’re primed to believe what you're being told," emphasizing the need for audiences to question the narratives presented to them. The show’s ability to shift perspectives allows viewers to grapple with their biases and encourages a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding Natalia’s story.
As the finale aired on May 1, 2025, it not only addressed the legal failings surrounding Natalia’s case but also resonated with broader societal issues regarding the treatment of individuals with disabilities. Robbins expressed hope that the story would inspire conversations about empathy and understanding, highlighting the need for a justice system that truly protects the vulnerable.
Ultimately, Good American Family serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of prejudice and misunderstanding. As viewers witness Natalia’s journey, they are left to ponder the importance of empathy and the necessity of questioning the narratives we accept. In a world where the truth often seems elusive, the show challenges us to seek understanding and compassion for those whose stories have been marginalized.
