The Righteous Gemstones Series Finale Explained: Redemption, Chaos, and Goodbyes

After four seasons of faith-based comedy, outrageous antics, and complicated family dynamics, The Righteous Gemstones concluded with an explosive and unpredictable series finale. Titled "That Man of God May Be Complete," the episode wraps up the Gemstone family’s journey in a mix of chaos, redemption, and some heartfelt moments.

Corey Milsap: The true Villain

The finale centers around Corey Milsap (Seann William Scott), who is revealed to be a far more sinister character than previously thought. Haunted by guilt over his involvement in the deaths of Lori’s exes and his complicity in his father's crimes, Corey spirals out of control. 

When the Gemstone siblings—Jesse (Danny McBride), Judy (Edi Patterson), and Kelvin (Adam DeVine)—discover the gold-plated Bible in Corey’s luggage, his violent outburst turns deadly. Corey demands $7 million from the Gemstones, resulting in a bloody confrontation at the lakehouse. 

Despite being shot and wounded, the siblings refuse to give up. With the help of Judy’s pet monkey, Dr. Watson, Jesse retrieves a gun and fatally shoots Corey, ending the threat. In a moment of surprising spiritual growth, the Gemstones pray for Corey, demonstrating their ability to forgive.

Kelvin and Keefe’s Wedding

One of the more heartwarming moments in the finale is the long-awaited wedding of Kelvin and Keefe. After Kelvin finally overcomes his fears, he proposes, and the couple marries in a joyful ceremony officiated by Eli (John Goodman). The wedding, coupled with a lively dance party, marks a major milestone in their relationship, offering some much-needed positivity after the preceding chaos.

Baby Billy's Redemption

Baby Billy (Walton Goggins) finds redemption in the finale after his obsession with the Teenjus project. Realizing he's been neglecting his family, Baby Billy makes a decision to shut down the project and focus on his loved ones, completing his redemption arc that had been developing since season two. This decision signifies his shift from fame-seeking to prioritizing what truly matters—his family.

Eli and Lori's new Beginning

Eli’s relationship with Lori Milsap (Megan Mullally), which had been met with resistance from his children, is finally accepted by the Gemstones. Lori’s return in the finale symbolizes the family moving on from the death of Aimee-Leigh, Eli’s late wife. Eli and Lori embark on a new chapter together, setting off on a fishing trip, leaving behind the tumultuous past and signaling hope for the future.

Aimee-Leigh’s Presence

Though Aimee-Leigh (Jennifer Nettles) passed before the events of the series, her ghost continues to loom over the family. In the finale, a letter from Aimee-Leigh, addressed to Lori, offers closure to her arc and gives the family a chance to reconcile with their grief. Aimee-Leigh’s continued influence on the family, especially in guiding them through their struggles, adds a layer of emotional depth to the finale.

The Meaning of the Ending

The series concludes with a poignant message about redemption, forgiveness, and acceptance. The Gemstones, despite their faults and violence, show personal growth and spiritual development. The final prayer for Corey is a testament to their transformation, acknowledging that closure may not always be possible, but peace can be found.

The Gemstone family has come full circle, showing that despite their chaotic lives, they have found a way to accept their flaws and seek redemption. The finale of The Righteous Gemstones serves as a fitting conclusion to the wild ride of the Gemstone family. It’s a perfect blend of absurdity and heart, with moments of chaos juxtaposed with real growth and change.

The end may leave us with mixed emotions, but it’s a satisfying finish to a show that never shied away from exploring the ridiculousness of wealth, power, and faith. As the Gemstones pray together and look to the future, viewers are reminded that even the most dysfunctional families can find a way to heal, forgive, and move forward.

All four seasons of The Righteous Gemstones are now available for streaming on Max.