The latest episode of Only Murders in the Building, season 4 titled “Lifeboat,”has proven to be another exciting chapter in the series, unraveling critical plot points while setting the stage for the upcoming penultimate episode. By the time the credits rolled, viewers were treated to a significant clue concerning the demise of Sazz, portrayed by Jane Lynch.
This installment picked up on the newfound suspicions surrounding the residents of the West Wing following the drama of episode seven. After each character recounted their encounters with the enigmatic Dudenoff (played by Griffin Dunne), it became clear that neither Sazz nor Dudenoff were victims of the same murderer.
In fact, the shocking truth revealed that Dudenoff’s death was unrelated to Sazz’s, a revelation that emerged within this very episode. Nonetheless, Sazz’s case remains shrouded in mystery, and a new suspect emerged by episode’s end—her protégé, Glen Stubbins, played by Paul Rudd, who is currently recuperating in the hospital after an attack on Oliver (Martin Short).
*Warning: Major spoilers for episode 8 of Only Murders in the Building season 4 ahead.*
The Revelation of Sazz’s Protégé
As the episode neared its conclusion, viewers were introduced to Helga, who remained oblivious to Dudenoff’s death—a request laid out by the deceased professor. Helga, a former West Wing resident, had engaged in discussions with Sazz, sharing insights about the clues Sazz had gathered pertaining to the alleged killer who has haunted the trio since the series’ inception.
During their ham radio exchange, Helga discovered that Sazz had a protégé, who appeared to have gone off track. She conveyed that he had been persistently troubling her, even foreboding that this aspiring individual would lead to her demise. The twist revealed that this stuntman, previously mentioned by Sazz, was none other than Glen Stubbins, who doubled for Ben Glenroy.
Following a bullet wound sustained during an assassination attempt on Oliver, Stubbins is in the hospital—but the episode leaves viewers with a hint that he is on the mend.
Clarifying Dudenoff’s Fate
One of the key mysteries unveiled in this episode pertains to Dudenoff’s death. While viewers and the podcasting trio were led to believe that the same assailant was responsible for both Dudenoff’s and Sazz’s deaths, it was ultimately disclosed that Dudenoff chose to end his life.
This tragic decision stemmed from his terminal illness diagnosis, prompting him to selflessly ensure that the West Tower residents could continue residing in their homes and receive his social security benefits each month. In an effort to help them enjoy their lives, he opted for suicide before his illness took its toll and asked for his remains to be cremated, which were later discovered while the team was collecting Sazz’s ashes. Helga was deliberately left out of this plan as she was still grieving her father’s passing and had viewed Dudenoff as a paternal figure.
Therefore, Dudenoff’s demise was not a homicide but rather a voluntary act, concluding the investigation surrounding the West Wing while confirming that Sazz’s case is distinctly separate.
Is the Actual Killer Still at Large?
The main antagonist targeted throughout season 4 of Only Murders in the Building is indeed still on the loose. Hints dropped in this episode suggest that the perpetrator could be a long-standing figure wanting to silence the podcast.
With just two episodes remaining, the truth appears to be within reach. The upcoming installment will likely delve deeper into Glen Stubbins’s involvement, especially given his highlighted role at the conclusion of this episode.
Fans can catch episode 8 of Only Murders in the Building season 4 now streaming on Hulu.
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