'Pluribus' Season 1 Finale Hints at How Carol & Manousos Could Defeat the Alien Virus

The final, ninth episode of Pluribus' first season premiered on Apple TV+ on December 24. Not only did the final episode conclude the events in Albuquerque, it also provided a clear hint at the plot of the already-confirmed second season.

The immune protagonists now have an incredible weapon against the alien threat, a nuclear bomb, and their plan to save humanity begins to take shape.

What Happened in 'Pluribus' Season 1 Finale?

After Manousos' risky experiment briefly penetrated the consciousness of an infected individual using radio frequencies and caused him pain, the entire colony of infected abandoned Albuquerque – they fled the danger Manousos posed.

However, Carol soon learns a shocking truth: the infected have found a way to connect her to the hive mind against her will, which could take only about a month. Realizing that time was running out, Carol took a radical step.

Using her special status, she demands that the infected provide her with an atomic bomb – the "gift" they had promised her. Armed with this deadly weapon, she went to Manousos and declared that she was ready to help him save the world.

Carol and Manousos Could Use a Bomb to Get Rid of the Alien Virus

The immune duo now have more than just an argument – they have a weapon of incredible power. Manousos, who had spent all this time studying physics books, might already have a plan.

The atomic bomb could be used not for direct destruction but rather as a source of a colossal electromagnetic pulse. This pulse could theoretically disrupt or destroy the link sustaining the collective mind, freeing millions of minds.

Showrunner Vince Gilligan said:

“We've got a pretty good idea where we're going with it. We don't consciously endeavor to paint ourselves into corners like we used to. We almost did that gleefully back in the day. That was when I was younger and had more energy.

So I wouldn't say we're trying to paint ourselves into a corner with this [atomic bomb]. Definitely not.”

Another scenario is nuclear blackmail. The characters could threaten to mutually annihilate the infected if the virus did not completely leave Earth.

In the meantime, Carol might be able to slow down her absorption process, buying precious time to prepare and implement Manousos' daring plan.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Pluribus' Season 1?

• Pluribus Season 1 has 98% from critics and 68% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the series has a score of 8.2/10.

Where to Watch 'Pluribus' Season 1?

Pluribus Season 1 is available to stream exclusively on Apple TV+.