The ‘Untamed’ loose ends we need to talk about
When Netflix introduced the horse-riding Federal Agent, Kyle Turner, in the depths of Yosemite National Park, the appeal was originally unique. But the impact? It was twice as much. His transition from a man grappling with an existential crisis to someone ready to start over and pass the baton was just the characteristic growth viewers pine for. And yet, in the process, Untamed left quite a few loose ends we really need to address.
Although Untamed was originally conceived as a limited series, it was rich with layers, subplots, and unforeseen twists and turns. What began as a murder mystery investigation of an unidentified woman soon brought back the ghosts of the town’s past, unravelling relationships and revealing cracks that were too thin to notice in the first place.
When Untamed drew the line, certain questions were provided with answers. But the others? Not so much. It’s important to note that the Netflix series drew a full circle with the ways things turned out.
Then again, it left certain threads hanging. And even one pull seems too dire.
The Untamed loose ends, Netflix has yet to address
Jill’s confession and legal consequences
Just like the questions surrounding Jane Doe kept fans glued to the screen from the first, so did the recurring investigation about Sean Sanderson. It was not until the ending episodes that viewers came to learn that Jill hired Shane Maguire to murder Sanderson, Caleb’s alleged killer. So far, what Kyle has been doing is lying to the investigators in order to protect Jill. But when she does come clean to Scott, Untamed doesn’t address the personal repercussions of their relationship or the legal consequences of her action.
While Untamed season two might, only time will reveal if a closure is in the cards for the fans on this aspect.
Future of Shane’s drug ring
Shane Maguire’s death ended up unveiling the drug ring operating inside Yosemite. Yet, Untamed doesn’t reveal any follow-up investigation or probe into others involved. It also doesn’t answer if there are any secondary players involved. In fact, the Netflix series doesn’t even reveal whether further arrests are made in the case, or if it’s buried once and for all.
Shane’s final moments
When Shane and Kyle end up in a cat-and-mouse chase in the darkness of Yosemite, the former nearly has the upper hand. First, he shoots Kyle in the abdomen, and just when he was cornered enough for his last shot, Naya Vasquez intervenes, delivering Shane the final blow. Although Kyle survives, he comes to learn that Shane is dead upon gaining consciousness. But the question is: was his killing justified?
Well, it could be excused as a matter of self-defence since Shane posits as an immediate threat, and Kyle was incapacitated. Naya’s intervention, in that case, is framed as necessary to save Kyle. Then again, Shane never had to undergo a trial for his involvement in the drug ring, Lucy Cook’s mysterious death, or carrying out Jill’s orders. Consequently, his death leaves the possibility unresolved whether a non-lethal capture would have been possible.
Additionally, Shane was a man with several important information. His killing may or may not be justified. However, his elimination removes the chances of further investigation into his wrongdoings.
Kyle’s future
In the closing scenes, Kyle resigns from the ISB and passes the baton to Naya Vasquez. He leaves Yosemite for good without revealing where he’s headed next. While it’s unclear whether it means a clean break or relocation, one can hope season two answers these questions that still trouble viewers.