Kristen Bell & Ted Danson Describe Their ‘Good Place’ Characters’ Endings
Q&A
All good things must come to an end, even this quirky Emmy-nominated comedy about a group of strangers trying to earn their way into a Heaven-like utopia in the afterlife.
Will Kristen Bell’s former bad girl Eleanor and Ted Danson’s reformed demon Michael each get their version of a happy ending on The Good Place? We quizzed the actors (above) to find out.
What has it been like trying not to reveal anything about the finale?
Ted Danson: The first season, I immediately told all my friends, like John Krasinski, the twist [that Eleanor and her new pals had actually been sent to the Bad Place, living in a neighborhood designed by Michael]. So I kind of learned my lesson and didn’t say anything this year.
Kristen Bell: It was actually easy to keep the finale a secret. It felt like such a special story that deserved a reveal with no spoilers. I think the lesson in the finale may be the biggest gift [creator] Michael Schur has ever given us.
(Colleen Hayes/NBC)
How did you react to the script?
Bell: I had the best and worst feeling: the worst because I was so sad the show was ending, but the best because I felt the ending was truly a worthy one.
Danson: I had a real lump in my throat. I think I might have been crying. It really felt to me like everyone’s character had the perfect emotional goodbye.
In one word, describe how the series ends for your character.
Bell: Completion.
Danson: His dream come true.
What’s the most valuable thing the show has taught you about what it means to be a good person?
Danson: Just keep trying to be better. You’re not gonna succeed, but just keep trying.
Bell: Trying is really the only thing that matters. And also, life is short, so make the most of your relationships.
(Colleen Hayes/NBC)
What would your own personal Bad Place look like?
Bell: A place where napping is a punishable offense.
Danson: A cocktail party full of people I’ve met once or twice and whose names I can’t remember.
The Good Place, Series Finale, Thursday, Jan. 30, 8:30/7:30c, NBC
Watchlist Easy access to only the shows you care about — all in one simple place
Alerts Only important notifications — when a show is returning, when it becomes available to stream, and more.
Special Offers Exclusive products we release related to your favorite shows and streaming services