Dave Annable Addresses Season 3 Finale and Breakup in Lioness
Lioness wrap up its third season with a dramatic breakup cliffhanger.
In the episode aired on Sunday, September 20, Joe (Zoe Saldaña) made her way back to an empty home. Her husband, Neal (Dave Annable), had removed all his belongings and taken their two daughters with him while Joe confronted the painful reality of her crumbling marriage.
“I thought it was extraordinary. I believe [creator] Taylor [Sheridan] is an exceptional writer who masterfully orchestrated all these elements into a cohesive episode,” Annable, 47, shared exclusively with Us.
He delved into Neal’s mindset, remarking, “Neal faces a monumental decision and has done nothing but back Joe as much as he can. However, there’s a point where the safety of your family comes into play, and a shift may become necessary.”
Annable emphasized it “was time” to confront the rift between the couple, stating, “I’m very eager to explore what lies ahead next season, particularly how they navigate this after-effects. He loves his wife, but he must make a decision. A decision needs to be made sooner or later.”
Earlier in the season, the tension was palpable during a phone call between Neal and Joe that hinted at their brewing problems.
“I think Neal is deeply wounded. He’s truly hurt,” he continued. “He was hopeful that she would be on that call saying, ‘I can’t wait to see you guys. I’m heading home.’ When she revealed she wouldn’t be returning, it became abundantly clear to Neal where her priorities lay at that moment — and, understandably, he and the children feel neglected.”
He described that moment as “heartbreaking.”
“Filming that scene was quite challenging — it was filled with strong emotions and heartbreak,” he expressed. “As I mentioned, that’s something that deeply affects Neal, and it will be intriguing to see how he reacts moving forward.”
Lioness is a thrilling spy drama that centers around a CIA team leader who recruits female agents, called Lionesses, to infiltrate terrorist organizations. Although a fourth season has not yet been confirmed, Annable is “very intrigued” about what could unfold in the next chapter of their narratives.
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“I’m very interested in exploring what the future holds for Neal and Joe in season 4, provided we are fortunate enough to get one — which I sincerely hope for — as I believe there’s a lot to uncover there,” he mentioned to Us. “This moment has certainly left a mark on him, but not a positive one.”
Looking to the future, Annable expressed optimism for Neal and Joe’s relationship, stating, “I’m definitely rooting for them because, frankly, I want to keep my job. [But honestly] I believe in their love story. I believe in Neal and Joe and that these challenging moments in marriage can often bring couples closer if they can navigate and communicate through them.”
He concluded, “Neal would certainly prefer it if she had a 9 to 5 job. However, I’m not entirely sure that Joe desires that, and that’s where we’ll find ourselves in this phase of their relationship.”
Lioness is now available for streaming on Paramount+.
