The Virginian Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for The Virginian.
The Virginian Ending Explained: Arriving at Medicine Bow, eastern schoolteacher Molly Woods meets two cowboys, irresponsible Steve and the "Virginian," who gets off on the wrong foot with her. Directed by Stuart Gilmore, this 1946 western film stars Joel McCrea (The Virginian), alongside Brian Donlevy as Trampas, Sonny Tufts as Steve Andrews, Barbara Britton as Molly Wood. With a 6.2/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of The Virginian?
Arriving at Medicine Bow, eastern schoolteacher Molly Woods meets two cowboys, irresponsible Steve and the "Virginian," who gets off on the wrong foot with her. To add to his troubles, the Virginian finds that his old pal Steve is mixed up with black-hatted Trampas and his rustlers...then finds himself at the head of a posse after said rustlers; and Molly hates the violent side of frontier life.
Stuart Gilmore's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Joel McCrea (The Virginian)'s journey. To add to his troubles, the Virginian finds that his old pal Steve is mixed up with black-hatted Trampas and his rustlers.
How Does Joel McCrea (The Virginian)'s Story End?
- Joel McCrea: Joel McCrea's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Brian Donlevy (Trampas): Brian Donlevy's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Sonny Tufts (Steve Andrews): Sonny Tufts's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of The Virginian Mean?
The Virginian's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Joel McCrea may feel rushed. Stuart Gilmore's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.