'Presumed Innocent' Ending Explained: Who killed Carolyn Polhemus? Apple TV+ finally reveals the killer
Contains spoilers for 'Presumed Innocent'
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS: The intricate and gruesome murder case of Carolyn Polhemus (Renate Reinsve) has reached its climax in Apple TV+'s 'Presumed Innocent,' leaving a lasting mark on the show's legacy with a surprising revelation about the perpetrator.
Created by David E. Kelley, the courtroom thriller features Rusty Sabich (Jake Gyllenhaal), a prosecutor and devoted family man who finds himself the prime suspect in the brutal murder of his colleague and secret girlfriend, Carolyn.
In its eight-episode run, the show masterfully constructs a whodunit scenario, making every character a potential suspect. However, the true identity of the culprit is revealed at the very end, delivering a revelation that is sure to shock.
Did Barbra Sabich kill Carolyn Polhemus in 'Presumed Innocent'?
After a lengthy trial, Rusty is ultimately exonerated of Carolyn's murder, much to the relief of his loved ones. However, the true identity of Carolyn's killer remains a mystery.
After the trial, Rusty approaches Barbara Sabich (Ruth Negga) after discovering a bag containing her clothing. He admits that he realized from the start that she was the one who murdered Carolyn.
He further reveals that he staged Carolyn's corpse to resemble the murder scene of Bunny Davis, intending to coerce Liam Reynolds (Mark Harelik) into a false confession and protect Barbara from prosecution.
Supposedly, his actions were motivated by a desire to protect her from the consequences. However, as Rusty continues, it becomes clear that Barbara has no grasp of what he’s saying.
Who is the real killer of Carolyn Polhemus in 'Presumed Innocent'?
The real jaw-dropper came when the murderer entered the room and interrupted Barbara and Rusty's conversation. It is then revealed that the culprit is none other than Jaden Sabich (Chase Infiniti).
Jaden admits to murdering Carolyn, explaining that she hid the murder weapon out of concern for Rusty and then placed it at Tommy Molto's (Peter Sarsgaard) apartment.
She explains that she had gone to Carolyn's apartment to warn her to leave, but her anger flared when Carolyn proudly revealed she was expecting Rusty’s child.
Rusty, who uncharacteristically accepts responsibility for initiating the series of events, requests that they never speak of it again and move forward as a family.
The show concludes with a montage that suggests everyone is getting along and moving forward with their lives.
Tommy watches football with his cat, Raymond is retired and tending to the yard, and the Sabiches share a family dinner.
However, a glance between Barbara and Rusty hints that lingering tension may still exist between them.
'Presumed Innocent' trailer