Tension Rises in Pluribus Season 1 Finale

ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico — The highly anticipated season finale of Pluribus, titled “La Chica o El Mundo,” aired on December 24, 2025, on Apple TV, bringing together main characters Carol Sturka, played by Rhea Seehorn, and Manousos Oviedo, portrayed by Carlos-Manuel Vesga.

The episode begins with a haunting portrayal of a young Peruvian girl, Kusimayu, as she is transformed into one of the Joined, a hive mind that has wreaked havoc on human cultures. This scene sets a chilling tone for the rest of the episode, blending horror with the cultural loss faced by those affected by the Kepler-22b virus.

As Carol awaits Manousos’ arrival, tension builds between the two. Their first meeting is anything but cinematic; instead, it’s marked by language barriers and instant disagreements. Manousos believes those who have Joined are better off dead, while Carol argues for their humanity, saying, “And isn’t it evil to value a man the same as an ant?” These conflicting ideologies illustrate the daunting challenges they face in their mission to save humanity.

Meanwhile, Carol reconnects with Zosia, her recent companion, further complicating her feelings and motivations. Zosia reveals that the Joined also have affection for Manousos, creating an emotional rift for Carol. This revelation hits Carol hard, indicating a potential shift in her priorities between saving the world and embracing her new relationship.

As Manousos conducts tests to separate the Joined from their hive identity, he faces opposition from Carol but hints at having a viable plan. This ongoing conflict highlights not just personal stakes but the broader implications of their actions as they navigate a world nearing collapse.

The episode concludes with more questions than answers, leaving viewers eager for Season 2. A surprising bombshell involves Carol’s frozen eggs, introducing an urgent sense of time and consequence, as she must now decide between her mission and the possibility of a new life.

With a blend of humor and suspense, “La Chica o El Mundo” effectively sets the stage for the future of Pluribus, compelling audiences to reflect on the choices that define humanity.