HBO's hit comedy series "The Righteous Gemstones" will conclude its run with its fourth and final season, set to premiere in March 2025. Series creator Danny McBride made the announcement, saying "The Lord spoke to me and said it's time to wrap this sucker up."
The show, which debuted in 2019, follows the outrageous adventures of a famous televangelist family balancing their religious empire with personal scandals and greed. After nearly eight years since McBride first wrote the pilot, he feels the story has reached its natural conclusion.
"The story this season made the themes, ideas, and characters feel whole and complete," McBride explained. He promises the final season will deliver "incredible payoffs, twists, and turns" for fans.
The fourth season will welcome new cast members Megan Mullally and Seann William Scott, joining series regulars John Goodman, Adam Devine, Edi Patterson, and McBride himself. Mullally will play Lori Milsap, a family friend with musical connections to the Gemstones' past.
When the series returns, viewers can expect major changes for the Gemstone siblings. Kelvin has monetized his coming out story through a new prayer group, while Jesse grapples with others' success overshadowing his own. Meanwhile, Judy and BJ face an unexpected tragedy that tests their relationship.
The series has been one of HBO's most expensive comedy productions, known for its ambitious storylines and elaborate set pieces. As McBride noted, the final season will maintain the show's tradition of "taking massive swings" that audiences won't see coming.
"The Righteous Gemstones" has left an indelible mark on television comedy since its debut, masterfully blending outrageous humor with sharp commentary on American religious culture. The series finale will mark the end of McBride's decade-long partnership with HBO, which included previous hits "Eastbound & Down" and "Vice Principals."