As the fourth and final season of HBO's The Righteous Gemstones draws to a close, the penultimate episode titled "On Your Belly You Shall Go" aired on April 27, 2025, and delivered a thrilling mix of drama and dark humor. Written by John Carcieri, Jeff Fradley, and series creator Danny McBride, this episode continues the show's tradition of escalating absurdity while tying up several character arcs.
The episode opens with BJ, played by Tim Baltz, announcing, "I am healed," signaling a return to form after a season spent in a wheelchair. With the help of Dr. Watson, BJ can once again engage in the playful antics of his family, which sets a lighthearted tone for the episode. However, the fun quickly turns dark as Eli Gemstone (John Goodman) and Baby Billy Freeman (Walton Goggins) find themselves in dire straits.
After being poisoned with darts, Eli and Baby Billy wake up chained in a custodial closet at Cobb Milsap's alligator park, alongside a naked Mitch, played by James DuMont. Cobb, portrayed by Michael Rooker, emerges as the season's true villain, having orchestrated a series of dangerous events culminating in this kidnapping. The tension escalates as Eli and Baby Billy realize they must escape before Cobb's sinister intentions come to fruition.
Meanwhile, the episode also highlights the complexities of family dynamics within the Gemstone clan. Eli, still reeling from a breakup with Lori Milsap (Megan Mullally), struggles to find his footing. His emotional turmoil is palpable, affecting his relationships with his children—Jesse (Danny McBride), Kelvin (Adam Devine), and Judy (Edi Patterson). Their interactions reveal a family still grappling with the legacy of Aimee-Leigh Gemstone, Eli's late wife, and the shadow she casts over their lives.
As the episode progresses, it becomes clear that Cobb's actions are not just about personal vendetta but also about the broader implications for both the Gemstones and the Milsaps. The tension between the two families has been a recurring theme throughout the season, and Cobb's villainy serves as a catalyst for their eventual reconciliation.
Corey Milsap (Seann William Scott), Cobb's son, plays a pivotal role in the climax. After witnessing his father's cruelty, Corey confronts Cobb during the chaotic escape attempt. In a shocking twist, Corey stabs Cobb with a knife that Cobb had gifted him for his birthday, pushing him into the alligator-infested waters. This act of defiance not only saves Eli and Baby Billy but also symbolizes Corey's rejection of his father's toxic influence.
The episode culminates in a dramatic showdown, as Eli rings the dinner bell, summoning the park's largest alligator, Gus. The scene is both suspenseful and darkly comedic, showcasing the series' knack for blending humor with horror. As the alligator attacks Cobb, the police arrive, providing a chaotic backdrop to the unfolding drama. Cobb's fate remains uncertain, as his body is not recovered, leaving viewers to ponder the possibility of his return in the series finale.
Throughout the episode, the writers skillfully balance humor and pathos. Baby Billy's antics on the set of his film, Teenjus, provide comic relief, with moments that showcase his larger-than-life personality. His interactions with Eli reveal a deeper bond, as he attempts to counsel Eli through his emotional struggles. "We just need to get you a layup," Baby Billy suggests, humorously implying that Eli should find comfort in companionship.
As the episode draws to a close, the Gemstone family begins to heal from their conflicts. The resolution of various subplots, including BJ's recovery and the reconciliation of Eli and Lori, sets the stage for a potentially uplifting finale. The episode ends on a hopeful note, with Eli and Lori embracing, suggesting that the family may finally be ready to move forward together.
The title, "On Your Belly You Shall Go," references Genesis 3:14, drawing a parallel between Cobb's downfall and the biblical serpent's punishment. This thematic depth adds layers to the episode, inviting viewers to reflect on the moral implications of the characters' actions.
As fans eagerly await the series finale, the penultimate episode of The Righteous Gemstones serves as a testament to the show's ability to intertwine humor and drama while exploring complex family dynamics. With its mix of outrageous plot twists and heartfelt moments, this episode exemplifies what has made the series a standout in HBO's lineup.
