Scandal Season Finale: Why Olivia’s Choice of Fitz Was the Ultimate Power Move for Olitz and Season 5
Was I the only one practically sprinting around my living room, fueled by pure exhilaration, after the final moments of the Scandal season finale aired? The tension had been building for four electrifying seasons, and finally, Olivia Pope (Kerry Washington) made her definitive choice between the two profound loves of her life — President Fitzgerald Grant (Tony Goldwyn) and Jake Ballard (Scott Foley). My overwhelming joy at her decision is almost indescribable. After enduring countless trials, tribulations, and an ocean of “blood, sweat, and tears,” it feels profoundly satisfying to see Olivia finally choose her own happiness. While her decision is sure to ignite fervent debates among Olitz and Olake shippers across the globe, can we not collectively revel in the fact that Olivia, for once, is truly content? Let’s delve into why I firmly believe Olivia made not just the right decision for her personal journey, but a pivotal one that promises an exhilarating future for the show as a whole.
‘Scandal’: Olivia & Fitz Reunite — The Dawn of a New Era for Season 5
WARNING: You have officially entered full-on Olitz territory. Prepare for unadulterated passion and unapologetic analysis of television’s most compelling, complicated romance.
The moment has arrived, and I can finally discuss the glorious reunion of Olivia and Fitz without the fear of inadvertently spoiling the epic conclusion for those who hadn’t yet witnessed it! Yes, indeed, Olivia chose Fitz. She actually chose Fitz. This wasn’t another instance of Fitz delivering some grand, last-minute declaration of love in the hallowed halls of the White House or within the symbolic rose garden; this monumental decision was entirely Olivia’s own making. It was a conscious, deliberate, and deeply personal choice that fundamentally reshapes her destiny and the landscape of Scandal itself.
Admittedly, she required a gentle, yet significant, push from Jake, a man who loved her fiercely and understood her better than almost anyone. However, even with Jake’s self-sacrificing nudge, it has always been undeniably clear that Olivia’s heart, her very soul, has consistently belonged to Fitz. Don’t even attempt to challenge me on this fundamental truth. Yes, their relationship is undeniably complicated, fraught with deep-seated flaws, and has often been a source of immense pain and chaos for both of them. But what truly compelling relationship on television, especially one crafted within the intricate, high-stakes world of Shondaland, isn’t? Just consider the legendary, equally tumultuous, and ultimately tragic love story of Meredith (Ellen Pompeo) and Derek (RIP) on Grey’s Anatomy. Like them, Olivia and Fitz’s relationship didn’t originate from an ideal fairytale scenario. He was a married man, a charismatic presidential candidate. She was his brilliant, uncompromising campaign manager. Their forbidden love sparked, eventually leading to his ascendance to the most powerful office in the world, the President of the United States. This complex foundation only cemented the idea that their connection was anything but ordinary.
Despite the political minefield, the ethical dilemmas, and the personal sacrifices, these two individuals shared a connection so profound, so visceral, that no one, not even they themselves, could ignore it. They are often portrayed as two halves of the same whole, twin flames destined to orbit each other’s lives, irrevocably bound by an unseen force. Time and again, they’ve attempted to keep their distance, to build lives apart, only for the magnetic pull between them to prove too strong. And yet, against all odds and often against their better judgment, they always find their way back to each other. They have weathered an unimaginable barrage of storms: the pain of profound betrayal, the agony of devastating loss, and the intensity of brutal, emotionally scarring fights. And please, spare me the tired argument of “they’re self-destructive when they’re together.” I won’t even dignify it with a glance. Their journey is one of survival, growth, and an unwavering, albeit painful, commitment to a love that defies conventional logic.
Over the course of the past four seasons, both Olivia and Fitz have undergone significant character development, evolving through their individual trials and collective experiences. However, the fundamental essence of Olitz has remained a constant, an anchor in the turbulent seas of their lives. So, you can undoubtedly imagine my complete and utter euphoria when Olivia, with newfound resolve, finally decided to take that monumental leap of faith and openly choose a life with Fitz. Jake, in a testament to his selfless love, had once again pledged his devotion to her, but he also possessed the heartbreaking wisdom to understand that his unwavering love wouldn’t, and couldn’t, ultimately alter where her true heart resided. While Olivia undoubtedly harbors deep affection and genuine love for Jake, her true, soul-deep love will always be reserved for Fitz.
Now that Olivia and Fitz are officially, unequivocally together and seemingly ready to embark on a public relationship, I am beyond anxious and incredibly excited to see the trajectory of season five. The groundwork for the Mellie and Fitz divorce storyline has been meticulously building for seasons, if I’m being completely honest and analytical. And let’s face it, Mellie Grant is an extraordinary character, a powerhouse of ambition and resilience who is more than capable of thriving all by herself. In fact, her political aspirations and personal growth often seemed stifled by the toxic remnants of her marriage. This divorce isn’t just about Olitz; it’s about Mellie finding her own path to power and fulfillment. By all means, Olivia and Fitz’s relationship will still be considered scandalous by Washington D.C. standards, and it will undoubtedly generate new forms of drama, but I am unequivocally ready for what lies ahead. I yearn to see how the show, known for its intricate plotting and compelling character arcs, will handle Olivia and Fitz operating as a united front, out in the open, rather than perpetually relegated to the shadows and secret rendezvous. This new dynamic promises a fresh layer of challenges, public scrutiny, and a chance for their love to truly prove its endurance.
#OLITZ REIGNS SUPREME, Y’ALL! This isn’t just a ship; it’s a phenomenon, a testament to enduring love amidst political intrigue and personal sacrifice. Their story is a cornerstone of Scandal, and this reunion feels like a glorious culmination, while simultaneously opening doors to entirely new narratives.
Furthermore, on a slightly different note, am I the only one who thinks Jake and Quinn (Katie Lowes) would make an unexpectedly compelling and potentially fantastic match? Their shared experiences as Gladiators, their understanding of the darker aspects of their world, and their individual loyalties could forge a truly unique bond. I’m just saying, it’s a thought worth considering for future storylines!
HollywoodLifers, the moment of truth has arrived! After all the emotional rollercoasters, the twists and turns, are you ultimately happy that Olivia Pope finally chose to embrace her destiny with Fitz? Or do you believe her heart truly belonged elsewhere? Share your thoughts, your joy, your frustrations, and your predictions for season five in the comments below! Let me know where your loyalty lies!
— Avery Thompson
Follow @avery__thompson