The undead return with a resounding thud as "What We Do in the Shadows" embarks on its sixth and closing chapter, heralding the triumphant and eagerly anticipated debut of Jerry, the quintessential fifth roommate to the eccentric gang. The episode, aptly titled "The Return of Jerry," is a virtuoso performance in the realm of dark comedy, artfully intertwining the series' trademark humor with a poignant narrative that paves the way for an unforgettable final curtain call.
The tale begins with Nandor (Kayvan Novak), Nadja (Natasia Demetriou), her doll doppelgänger Nadja Doll (also Demetriou), Laszlo (Matt Berry), and Colin Robinson (Mark Proksch) convened in their living quarters, reflecting on the void left by Guillermo's departure. Laszlo proposes repurposing the vacant space, but Nadja gently reminds them of Nandor's nostalgic bond with his "former bouncing companion." This prompts a spirited disagreement between Nandor and Laszlo, as they debate the room's former purpose: was it a repository for Laszlo's "treasured pornographic tomes" or Nandor's fitness apparatus? They conclude that their enigmatic fifth roommate, Jerry, would hold the key, yet he has been shrouded in an extended slumber for nearly half a century.
Realizing Jerry's continued dormant state—having embarked on his nap in 1976 with instructions to awaken him in 1996, a quarter-century past—the gang embarks on a quest. They unseal a coffin, initially mistaking it for Jerry's eternal resting place, only to uncover the decomposed remnants of one of Laszlo's forsaken scientific experiments. Laszlo's aspirations to breathe life into the inanimate, akin to Dr. Frankenstein's endeavors, come to light, albeit unbeknownst to him of the famous monster's creator. Eventually, they discover Jerry's coffin, and the enigmatic fifth roommate rises from his decades-long slumber, mistakenly believing they have conquered the New World and that Laszlo is a renowned scientist hailed for his achievements.
Jerry's bewilderment is palpable as the vampires clarify their modest territorial conquests—merely their own street and a significant portion of Ashley Street—revealing that Jerry's slumber has spanned far beyond two mere decades. In an attempt to bring Jerry up to speed, Colin Robinson plays "We Didn't Start the Fire" by Billy Joel, yet the song's timeline barely scratches the surface, capping off at 1988. Jerry's curiosity piques over the presence of the human camera crew, prompting the gang to grapple with the reasons behind their inclusion, memories of which are hazy at best.
Nandor and Nadja visit Guillermo (Harvey Guillén), now residing in Laszlo's former gardening shed and employed at Panera Bread. Nandor admits a sense of obligation to provide Guillermo with shelter, while Nadja reassures him that fondness for his old friend is natural. Guillermo suggests they confront Jerry about their underlying issues, volunteering to accompany them for moral support.
Guillermo introduces Jerry to The Guide (Kristen Schaal) at the Vampire Council headquarters. Jerry's aspiration to dominate the world resonates with The Guide's own interests, prompting her to assist him in finding employment to keep him out of the house. Meanwhile, the gang decides to convene for at least three hours each night to devise a comprehensive plan for vampire supremacy over all humanity.
During the mid-credit sequence, Jerry commands The Guide to retrieve every document they possess on the myriad pop-culture references embedded in "We Didn't Start the Fire," deeming this knowledge vital for his conquest of the New World. The Guide presents Jerry with the prestigious rock and roller cola scroll, setting the stage for his bold ambitions.
"The Return of Jerry" marks a stellar kickoff to the final season, masterfully blending the show's iconic humor with a profound delve into the characters' motivations and interrelations. Jerry's reemergence introduces a fresh dynamic to the group, while the episode effectively lays the groundwork for the season's thrilling stakes. As the gang unites under a common goal and Jerry's influence looms large, fans brace themselves for a wild and exhilarating ride as "What We Do in the Shadows" inches closer to its grand finale.
