Alex Vause’s fate in the Season 3 finale of Orange Is the New Black left viewers on a major cliffhanger. Confronted by Kubra’s henchman, Aydin, in the greenhouse, Alex’s survival remained uncertain. This ambiguity sparked widespread speculation and the burning question: Does Alex Vause Die?
Laura Prepon’s portrayal of Alex Vause has been a central part of Orange Is the New Black since its inception. However, her presence on the show hasn’t always been guaranteed. After Season 1, Alex’s character arc seemed to conclude, mirroring the limited real-life interaction between Piper Kerman and her inspiration for Alex, Catherine Cleary Wolters. As detailed in a Vanity Fair article, their time together in prison was brief.
Despite this, the overwhelming fan response to Alex’s absence prompted show creator Jenji Kohan to bring Prepon back for a significant portion of Season 2, and then as a full-time cast member for Season 3. This decision underscores the importance of Alex Vause to the narrative and the audience’s connection to the character.
Season 3 culminated in a tense confrontation between Alex and Aydin, leaving Alex’s destiny hanging in the balance. While the scene strongly suggested a grim outcome, the lack of explicit confirmation fueled fan theories and online discussions. The rest of the inmates, enjoying a carefree moment in a nearby lake, provided a stark contrast to Alex’s precarious situation. This deliberate juxtaposition heightened the suspense and left viewers anxiously awaiting answers.
Fortunately, subsequent evidence suggests that Alex Vause survives. Laura Prepon herself hinted at her return for another season in an Instagram post, showcasing her signature Alex Vause look. This, combined with later confirmations, put to rest the fears of many fans. While the specifics of her survival remained a mystery until the premiere of Season 4, Prepon’s social media activity offered a strong indication that Alex Vause’s story wasn’t over. The cliffhanger ending ultimately served as a compelling hook to ensure viewers returned for the next season, eager to discover how Alex escaped her seemingly deadly encounter.
