Who is the ‘her’ Randall and Tess aren’t ready to see? Here’s the only two theories
By Reed Gaudens
In the Season 2 finale of This Is Us, future Randall and Tess talk about a mysterious ‘her.’ Who are they talking about? There’s two options.
Another season of crushing heartbreaks and crumbling heartstrings with This Is Us is in the books, but many fans will still be reeling from those three major cliffhangers all summer long. The season finale of the NBC tearjerker found Kate and Toby tying the knot and honoring Jack’s memory, which perfectly concluded the Season 2 journey. Nevertheless, This Is Us doesn’t let us breathe for too long before setting up another unexpected twist.
In the final moments of the season finale, a trio of cliffhangers tee up next season’s arcs for the Big Three. One of the biggest cliffhangers takes us back to the future timeline teased back in the Super Bowl episode. Randall sits down with adult Tess and says, “It’s time to go see her.” They both admit they aren’t ready, but who are they talking about? As far as we know, there are only two viable theories regarding the identity of “her,” and that’s Beth and Deja. Let’s plead the case for both women.
The case for Beth
Given that rumors began flying last month that This Is Us would be killing Beth off, it’s not too far fetched to assume Beth could be who Randall and Tess are referring to. Once again, the series makes sure to keep the exchange vague and refrain from showing Randall’s left hand. Beth isn’t with Randall as he speaks to their grown daughter, and we don’t see a wedding ring.
Sure, neither of these details are hard and fast tells for Beth’s fate, but the questions remain. Could she be sick in the hospital? Could she have already passed? Either way, there’s an argument as to why Tess wouldn’t be ready to see her mother. Also, there were a few noteworthy cuts to present-day Beth following the flash forward cliffhanger. Just saying.
The case for Deja
After seeing the events of the season finale unfold, the case for Deja being the mysterious “her” are even stronger than Beth. During Kate and Toby’s wedding reception, Tess asks Beth where Deja is. Little do they know, she’s taking her resentments out on Randall’s windshield with a metal baseball bat. Clearly, Tess feels a connection and bond to Deja that would transcend time.
However, we don’t yet know what happens between Deja’s outburst and Randall’s talk with Tess in the future. For all we know, Deja could have been arrested or she could have been forgiven and joined the Pearson family. Fans have speculated that future Deja hurt Beth or that she could be in jail, which is why Tess isn’t ready to see her. There are countless reasons why Randall and Tess would both be hesitant to see Deja in the future, none of them comforting.
Next: This Is Us season 2 finale recap: Two weddings and a (potential) funeral
Who do you think Randall and Tess were talking about? Do you think it’s Beth or Deja? What do you think Beth and Deja’s fates are on the future timeline? Let us know your thoughts and predictions in the comments, and be sure to keep the conversation going over on Twitter at @thisisuscrying!
This Is Us returns for Season 3 in September on NBC.