Michelle Buteau’s hit series Survival of the Thickest is officially returning for a third and final season on Netflix, much to the delight of its loyal fans. The show, a refreshing blend of comedy and drama, has captured hearts with its honest portrayal of self-love, resilience, and the complexities of navigating life’s challenges. Inspired by Buteau’s 2020 memoir, the series follows the journey of Mavis Beaumont as she rebuilds her life, love, and career, reminding viewers why this show is an important voice in today’s television landscape. As this final season approaches, audiences can expect more laughs, more love, and even deeper explorations of identity and empowerment.
Mavis Beaumont’s story continues
At the center of Survival of the Thickest is Mavis Beaumont, played by Michelle Buteau herself. Mavis is a stylish, witty Black woman who finds herself at a crossroads after a painful breakup forces her to reinvent her life. The show is an intimate look at her journey toward healing, self-acceptance, and chasing new dreams. Throughout the series, Mavis grapples with societal pressures around body image, dating, and career ambitions, but she does so with humor and a fierce determination that makes her a relatable and inspiring protagonist.
The show doesn’t just focus on Mavis’s personal growth but also shines a light on the importance of chosen family and community. Her close circle of friends provides unwavering support and comic relief, reminding viewers that love and friendship come in many forms. The cast, including Tone Bell, Tasha Smith, Marouane Zotti, and RuPaul’s Drag Race alum Peppermint, brings rich diversity and authenticity to the screen, enhancing the show’s vibrant storytelling.
Exciting renewal announcement and fan reactions
Netflix surprised fans at its 2025 upfront presentation with the news that Survival of the Thickest would return for a third and final season. Michelle Buteau’s reaction to the announcement was as genuine as it was entertaining. In a viral clip, she received the good news via a playful phone call from “season three” itself, bursting with joy and excitement. Clutching a giant pink balloon shaped like the number three, she celebrated the milestone, calling it the “holy trinity” and sharing her enthusiasm with fans worldwide.
The show’s renewal comes after a highly praised second season, which was noted for being “funnier than ever” by Entertainment Weekly. Episodes that explored themes such as trans joy and featured notable guest stars helped cement the show’s reputation for inclusivity and bold storytelling. Fans are eager to see how Mavis’s journey will conclude, hopeful for a satisfying and meaningful finale that stays true to the series’ spirit.
A commitment to diversity and inclusion behind the scenes
One of the most commendable aspects of Survival of the Thickest is its strong commitment to representation not just in front of the camera but behind it as well. The entire second season was directed by women of color, a decision that underscores the show’s dedication to authentic storytelling and elevating marginalized voices in the industry. Furthermore, 70 percent of the department heads and half of the crew were women, creating a work environment that reflects the values seen in the show’s narrative.
This level of inclusivity contributes to the show’s unique voice and perspective, which resonates with a wide audience and challenges traditional norms in television production. It is rare to see such a deliberate and successful effort to ensure diversity at every level, making Survival of the Thickest a trailblazer in the industry.
What’s next for survival of the thickest and its fans?
With the final season on the horizon, fans are buzzing about what surprises and developments await Mavis and her friends. The show has been praised for its ability to balance humor with heartfelt moments, and many expect this concluding chapter to deliver just that. Themes of self-discovery, empowerment, and the complexities of adult friendships are likely to be explored further, providing a rich and satisfying end to the story.
The first two seasons of Survival of the Thickest are currently available to stream on Netflix, offering new viewers a chance to catch up before the finale arrives. For longtime fans, it’s a bittersweet moment, but one filled with gratitude for the journey shared and excitement for the story’s conclusion.
As Michelle Buteau’s Survival of the Thickest prepares to say goodbye, it leaves behind a legacy of humor, heart, and a powerful message about embracing yourself fully. It’s a celebration of strength, vulnerability, and the importance of community—a final season that promises to honor everything that made the show special from the start.
