Belle Gibson’s Story Conclusion: Creator and Star Explains the Fate of Apple Cider Vinegar

Alert: This article contains spoilers for Apple Cider Vinegar!

The conclusion of Apple Cider Vinegar has been thoughtfully analyzed by its creator, Samantha Strauss, alongside lead actress Kaitlyn Dever. They explored the final moments of Belle Gibson, a character portrayed by Dever, who fabricated a narrative about overcoming a nonexistent Stage 4 brain cancer diagnosis through natural alternatives and healthy living. The show exposes the real-life consequences of Gibson’s deception, culminating in a tense 60 Minutes interview, where she dodges probing inquiries about the legitimacy of her health claims. This interaction serves as a key reference point in the series finale.

In an interview with Netflix’s Tudum, Strauss and Dever conveyed that the ending profoundly illustrates Gibson’s deep regrets regarding her past actions. In the series’ closing scenes, as she bonds with her son and Clive (Ashley Zukerman) at a swimming pool, we see her genuine desire to be a good parent. However, the tragedy of her past actions looms over these moments, starkly revealing the pain she has inflicted on others. Here are some insights from Strauss and Dever:

Samantha Strauss: She’s saying, ‘I really hope I can be well.’ Does Belle think she’s a scammer? I think everyone is the hero of their own story. No one sees themselves as the bad guy.

Kaitlyn Dever: She wants to give love to her son. At her core, Belle really does want to be a good mom. That’s what I was thinking about in that moment. That scene is really twisted. It’s dark, heartbreaking, sad — it’s so many emotions wrapped up into one. To end the series in that way is really, really powerful.

It’s worth noting that Samantha Strauss was also involved as a writer on the Hulu series, Nine Perfect Strangers, which underscores her capability in crafting compelling narratives that balance complex emotional themes.

Insights From the Ending of Apple Cider Vinegar

Navigating the Complex Morality of the Series

Character Milla Blake in Apple Cider Vinegar

Throughout its run, Apple Cider Vinegar unravels Belle Gibson’s fraudulent cancer diagnosis and the subsequent deceptive treatment programs, emphasizing their damaging effects on countless individuals who sought help. The series artfully navigates the landscape of her guilt, juxtaposing it against the stark reality of the hurt she has caused. This intricate balance is a significant reason why reviews for Apple Cider Vinegar have praised its character development alongside the dark truths it reflects.

The series’ final moments encapsulate this balance, portraying the profound guilt Belle experiences, while not dismissing the lasting damage resulting from her actions. The emotional pool scene symbolizes the darkness surrounding her narrative. While certain elements, like the character of Milla (Alycia Debnam-Carey), are fictionalized versions inspired by Jessica Ainscough, the series remains deeply rooted in the harsh realities of the story it represents.

Our Perspective on Apple Cider Vinegar‘s Finale

An Appropriate Closure for the True Story

Belle Gibson from Apple Cider Vinegar in front of emojis — Image by Dani Kessel Odom

While the show allows some room for empathy towards Belle through her humanization, the conclusion asserts that her feelings of guilt cannot erase the consequences of her past. Supporting her family is the only path forward for her, with Apple Cider Vinegar emphasizing her newfound purpose in life, following the turmoil she created.

All episodes of Apple Cider Vinegar are currently available for streaming on Netflix.

Source: Tudum /Netflix

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