In the fourth episode of You Season 5, titled “My Fair Maddie,” the narrative delves deeper into the complexities of identity, deception, and the consequences of past actions. The episode masterfully intertwines personal vendettas with familial power struggles, all set against the backdrop of Joe Goldberg’s ever-complicating life.
The episode opens with Joe attempting to execute his plan of substituting Reagan with Maddie to neutralize threats to his and Kate’s stability. However, this scheme quickly unravels as Maddie’s actions become unpredictable, leading to unintended consequences. The tension between the twins, Reagan and Maddie, reaches a climax when Maddie administers a fatal insulin dose to Reagan, a moment that underscores the show’s recurring theme of blurred moral lines. This single act—calculated and tragic—marks a turning point, not just for Maddie, but for the entire Lockwood family.
The Lockwood family’s internal dynamics crumble under the weight of long-buried secrets. Kate confronts Reagan about embezzlement, only to uncover deeper betrayals that redefine her understanding of the family legacy. When Reagan threatens to expose these secrets unless Kate steps down, the stakes heighten. This power play exposes how deeply intertwined personal survival is with public image in elite circles. Kate’s dilemma isn’t just about power—it’s about reclaiming agency in a legacy built on silence and manipulation.
Joe’s relationship with Brontë also takes center stage in this episode. Their interactions oscillate between genuine connection and manipulative undertones. Brontë’s discovery of Joe’s darker tendencies and her subsequent confrontation adds depth to her character, showcasing her as more than just a passive participant in Joe’s life. She refuses to remain naive or coddled, forcing Joe to face a version of himself he no longer controls. Her voice becomes a mirror, reflecting the dissonance between the man Joe pretends to be and the predator he fights not to become.
Brontë’s evolution over the past few episodes becomes most visible here. She doesn’t shrink in Joe’s shadow—instead, she carves space for truth, even if it breaks her. This confrontation, tense and emotionally charged, doesn’t just challenge Joe—it startles him. He realizes that his charm has limits, that not every woman in his life bends under pressure. This moment chips away at his illusion of control and plants the seeds of greater conflict to come.
The episode’s pacing is commendable, balancing multiple story arcs without overwhelming the viewer. Each plotline receives ample attention, and the transitions between them feel seamless and intentional. The cinematography effectively captures the show’s dark and suspenseful tone, with tight framing and dim lighting accentuating the characters’ internal struggles. Every camera movement feels purposeful—whether it’s zooming in on Joe’s troubled expression or lingering on Maddie’s face moments before making her fatal decision.
Performance-wise, Penn Badgley continues to deliver a nuanced portrayal of Joe, capturing the character’s internal conflict and descent into moral ambiguity. His facial expressions alone convey volumes—one moment tender, the next chilling. Charlotte Ritchie’s portrayal of Kate adds depth to the narrative, especially as her character grapples with family betrayals and personal dilemmas. Kate becomes more than a love interest—she emerges as a woman at war with her inheritance, her instincts, and the man she thought she understood. Madeline Brewer’s Brontë brings a refreshing dynamic, challenging Joe’s perceptions and adding unpredictability to the storyline. Her performance exudes both vulnerability and strength, complicating the viewer’s sympathies in all the right ways.
“My Fair Maddie” stands out as a pivotal episode in the season, setting the stage for the unfolding drama and character developments. It effectively explores themes of identity, deception, and the consequences of past actions, all while maintaining the suspense and intrigue that You is known for. Every character hits a crossroads in this episode, and the choices they make promise ripple effects that will shape the rest of the season.
