Presumed Innocent Ending Explained: Who Killed Carolyn Polhemus If Rusty Didn’t?

As a devoted fan of “Apple TV+ Presumed Innocent,” I have been eagerly anticipating each episode of this gripping drama series. The finale, titled “The Verdict,” delivered a thrilling conclusion that kept me on the edge of my seat until the very last minute.


The final episode of Apple TV+’s “Presumed Innocent,” adapted from Scott Turow’s renowned novel, was broadcast on July 24. This gripping mystery kept viewers guessing and eagerly anticipating each development. Throughout the season, fans debated whether the show would stay true to the book or introduce unexpected twists.

In the last installment, every spectator was glued to the courtroom as the intriguing case drew to a thrilling close. Indeed, the finale provided satisfying answers: Which person was responsible for Carolyn Polhemus’ demise, and did Rusty bear the blame? Let’s delve into the heart-pounding conclusion and unravel the storyline.

Recap of the finale: episode 8, The Verdict

In the last installment, titled “The Verdict,” the stakes are at an all-time high as I, Rusty, face trial for the alleged murder of Carolyn. The episode opens with an unsettling discovery: a fire poker on Tommy Molto’s (Peter Sarsgaard) kitchen counter, accompanied by a menacing note reading, “GO FUCK YOURSELF.” This find casts an ominous shadow over him.

Instead of “He calls the police,” you could say “He contacts the authorities.” As for the second sentence, you could paraphrase it as “Without any proof or identifying marks on the poker, there’s reason to question its legitimacy.” Regarding the judge’s offer of a mistrial, you could rephrase it as “The judge suggested ending the trial, but Rusty chose to press on.” Lastly, for the last sentence, you could paraphrase it as “He carries on, aiming to establish his innocence beyond doubt.”

The verdict

In the courtroom, Rusty finds himself at a pivotal point, disregarding his lawyer’s counsel and choosing to make his own closing statement. His wife, Barbara (Ruth Negga), had suggested alibiing him by claiming he was home past midnight. However, the team believed this could be problematic due to her previous infidelity. Consequently, Rusty bravely decided to address the court, admitting to his affair but maintaining his innocence.

The defense argues that Rusty has an alibi, suggesting Carolyn’s time of death was wrong. This claims that Rusty couldn’t have been the murderer. The tension is palpable as the verdict is read: Rusty is found not guilty. His family and friends feel relieved.

Rusty felt a mix of relief and disappointment as the identity of Carolyn’s killer remained unknown. He criticized Tommy Molto for prioritizing vengeance over uncovering the truth. Defeated, Tommy considered Nico’s (O-T Fagbenle) advice to relinquish the case and focus on something new.

A shocking confession

At home, Rusty encounters Barbara upon discovering a suitcase ready to go. He accuses her of taking Carolyn’s life, but she denies it. Rusty remembers his early suspicions and efforts to shield her. However, an unexpected revelation unfolds when their daughter Jaden (Chase Infinity) admits to the deed.

She reveals that she went to confront Carolyn. And, in a fit of rage after learning Carolyn was pregnant with Rusty’s child, she killed her with the fire poker. She then hid the weapon and later planned it at Tommy’s house to protect her father.

The season concludes with intrigue as Rusty promises his loved ones that they’ll leave the past behind and avoid mentioning the incident. However, the Sabich family’s last moments show them attempting to resume normalcy. They come together for a Thanksgiving feast. Yet, an exchange of significant looks between Rusty and Barbara hints at unresolved issues and the weight of their concealed truths.

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2024-07-25 15:24