The third season of Prime Video's Reacher concluded with a thrilling finale titled "Unfinished Business," which dropped on March 27, 2025. This episode not only wrapped up the intense narrative arcs that had been building throughout the season but also set the stage for future developments in the franchise.
In this climactic episode, Jack Reacher (played by Alan Ritchson) teams up with Zachary Beck (Anthony Michael Hall), Duffy (Sonya Cassidy), and Villanueva (Bruce McGill) to rescue Beck's son, Richard, and confront the formidable villains Quinn (Brian Tee) and Paulie (Olivier Richters). The stakes are high as they race against time to save their friends and seek vengeance.
As the episode opens, viewers witness an ambush of ATF agents by Quinn's hired guns, showcasing the ruthless nature of the antagonists. Despite being perched with a sniper rifle, Reacher is unable to intervene, which prevents him from making an impulsive decision that could have dire consequences. This moment highlights Reacher's character growth as he prioritizes saving lives over personal revenge.
Throughout the season, the narrative has focused on themes of revenge and redemption, particularly revolving around the death of Dominique Kohl, a soldier Reacher mentored. Quinn's brutal actions have haunted Reacher, leading him to seek justice not just for Kohl but for the innocents caught in the crossfire, including Teresa Daniel (Storm Steenson) and Richard Beck.
The long-awaited showdown between Reacher and Paulie delivers on the promise of an epic confrontation. Alan Ritchson described filming this fight as the "three hardest weeks" of his life, and the effort is evident in the intensity of the scene. The fight, which takes place partly underwater, is a masterclass in choreography, with each blow feeling earned and impactful. Reacher's clever tactics, including blocking the barrel of an M-60 machine gun, showcase his intelligence over brute strength, making this encounter one of the most memorable of the series.
As the tension mounts, viewers are treated to a poignant moment between Zachary and Richard Beck. In a touching scene, Zachary sacrifices himself to save his son, pointing a toy gun at Quinn in a desperate attempt to protect Richard. This act of bravery allows Richard to escape with a bag full of cash and a car, symbolizing a chance at a new life after the turmoil they have faced.
Meanwhile, Duffy and Villanueva work together to rescue Teresa, adding layers to their characters as they navigate the chaos of the birthday party where Quinn is sealing an arms deal with Yemeni terrorists. Duffy's determination to find her informant and Villanueva's resourcefulness shine through, making them integral to the episode's success.
Despite the thrilling action, some elements of the finale felt predictable. For instance, Quinn's violent demise at the hands of Reacher was somewhat anticlimactic, lacking the emotional weight that viewers might have expected given the buildup. While Quinn is portrayed as a fierce villain, his motivations lack depth, making him appear more as a caricature than a complex antagonist.
In the aftermath of the chaos, the episode wraps up the character arcs neatly, providing a sense of closure. Richard expresses his gratitude to Reacher, acknowledging his father's efforts to protect him, even at the cost of his life. Teresa's reunion with her grandmother is heartwarming, emphasizing the theme of familial bonds amidst adversity.
As the season draws to a close, Reacher rides off into the sunset on a new motorcycle, symbolizing his continued journey and adventures ahead. The episode ends on a high note with a nostalgic soundtrack, leaving fans satisfied yet eager for more.
The good news for fans is that Reacher has already been renewed for a fourth season, with expectations for a spinoff series centered around Neagley (Maria Sten) already in the works. As the franchise continues to evolve, viewers can look forward to more thrilling narratives and character developments in the future.
Overall, the finale of Reacher season 3 managed to deliver a satisfying conclusion while also hinting at the potential for more exciting stories to come. Despite some predictable elements, the combination of action, character development, and emotional stakes made it a fitting end to a season that had its ups and downs.
