Bridging past and present in the final season of ‘Somebody Somewhere’

Finding solace amidst small-town struggles

In the initial season of HBO’s award-winning dramedy “Somebody Somewhere”, we witnessed Sam Miller’s (portrayed by Bridget Everett) tumultuous journey through grief and anger following her sister Holly’s death. Season 2 introduced new challenges as Sam struggled to reclaim her place within her hometown, while facing complications with her best-friend Joel (Jeff Hiller) and uncovering buried secrets from Holly. Now, as we delve into the third and final season, Sam’s narrative arc comes full circle, offering an emotionally charged depiction of friendship, grace, and courage.

Capturing the charm of small-town life

Set against the quaint backdrop of Manhattan, Kansas, “Somebody Somewhere” brilliantly encapsulates the serenity and monotony that characterize small-town living. Creators Hannah Bos and Paul Thureen skilfully avoid patronizing depictions, instead providing a compassionate and comedic lens into the intricate dynamics and deep-seated connections among the town’s residents.

Potlucks, Bible studies, and gossip sessions ground the series in authenticity, but it’s the palpable love and community spirit that truly shine through, painting a vivid picture of the town’s lifeblood.

New beginnings and heartfelt connections

Sam’s journey

As season 3 opens, we find Sam embarking on a new chapter with a job at the local dive bar, the Cock n’ Bull, while assisting her sister Tricia (Mary Catherine Garrison) with her event planning and Etsy ventures. Despite her self-professed lack of people skills, Sam excels as a bartender, engaging patrons with her witty banter and filling glasses with ease.

However, the bar is just one facet of the changes Sam is navigating. With her mother now in an assisted living facility and her father retired in Michigan, Sam and Tricia rent out the family farm to the enigmatic Iceland (Darri Ólafsson). These adjustments seem manageable until Joel’s announcement of selling his house and moving in with his boyfriend Brad (Tim Bagley), which threatens to upend Sam’s financial stability and close-knit friendship.

Evolving relationships and personal growth

With Joel newly coupled with Fred (Murray Hill), parallels emerge between Sam and Tricia’s lives. Both women, navigating significant personal transitions — Sam’s evolving friendship with Joel and Tricia’s life post-divorce — provide a fascinating exploration of sisterhood and resilience. Episode 4, “What If It Spreads?”, beautifully illustrates this dynamic as the sisters attend the Great Plains Expo in Wichita, where deep-seated revelations and heartfelt interactions bring them closer.

Despite Sam’s occasional disdain for Tricia, there’s a profound admiration for her sister’s bravery in leaving an unhappy marriage and forging a path with her unique pillow business. This nuanced portrayal of their bond adds depth and authenticity to the series.

Friends and love in unexpected places

Joel and Sam’s friendship remains a cornerstone of the show. For two seasons, Sam leaned heavily on Joel, finding solace in their bond. This season, however, introduces a shift as Sam begins to recognize her own importance in Joel’s life. In Episode 5, “Num Nums,” a Thanksgiving gathering at Joel and Brad’s house showcases heartfelt interactions and unveils the complexities of love and vulnerability.

Sam’s realization that true love requires risks and openness marks a significant turning point, reinforcing the series’ themes of authentic human connection and personal growth.

Navigating life’s uncertainties

Throughout the series, Sam grapples with financial woes, health issues, and meddling acquaintances, often reverting to familiar coping mechanisms like negative self-talk. Yet, with Joel and Tricia’s steadfast support, she finds herself willing to embrace new challenges.

Faith and self-discovery

Joel’s crisis of faith this season offers a poignant exploration of optimism and resilience, proving that even the most optimistic individuals can falter. As Sam steps into the role of the “strong friend,” she discovers the strength and peace that come from embracing her current circumstances.

Signature elements and emotional depth

True to its roots, the final season doesn’t shy away from showcasing Bridget Everett’s breathtaking cabaret performances, interspersed with emotional outbursts, raunchy humor, and tear-jerking moments. These elements seamlessly blend to create a series that feels like a homecoming, distinct in its heartfelt portrayal and relatability.

The season’s narrative arc underscores the importance of perseverance and the courage to desire more from life, even in the face of self-doubt. Sam’s journey illustrates that progress often comes in small, meaningful steps rather than grand transformations.

“Somebody Somewhere” season 3 premieres on October 27 on HBO, with new episodes airing weekly on Sundays. Share your thoughts and join our community to stay updated on the latest in TV and entertainment.