Surface season 2 ending explained: who really killed Emma and what happens to Sophie?

Sophie prepares to turn herself in as past crimes resurface in the final episode of Surface season 2. (Image via AppleTV+)
Sophie prepares to turn herself in as past crimes resurface in the final episode of Surface season 2. (Image via AppleTV+)

Surface season 2 wrapped up with significant revelations on Apple TV+, including the long-awaited facts surrounding Emma Antoine-Day’s death. But who fired the gun, and what will happen to Sophie now that her history has caught up with her?

Ad

In Surface season 2 episode 8, Sophie Ellis retrieves important memories from her past after surviving a near-fatal car accident. These recollections offer a vital understanding of her mother Emma's last moments. Sophie, searching for answers regarding Emma’s enigmatic death, ultimately discovers the complete truth. While the conclusion addresses multiple important narratives, it leaves the destinies of a few characters uncertain, paving the way for possible future evolutions.

Disclaimer: The following article contains major spoilers for the Surface season 2 finale. Reader's discretion is advised.

Ad

Emma’s death, officially categorized as “unclassified,” has been confirmed to be due to a shooting incident. Sophie’s encounter with the Huntley family results in events that uncover Olivia Huntley, Henry Huntley’s spouse, was the individual who accidentally shot Emma during a tense exchange at their family estate. This moment reveals a long-hidden secret that not only alters Sophie’s perception of her history but also directly involves the noble Huntley family.

Ad

In conclusion, Sophie chooses to go to the police of her own accord, despite the possibility of being arrested for offenses committed before her memory loss. Though some characters opt to flee, others face the repercussions of their previous deeds. Here’s a summary of how Surface season 2 concludes for all the main characters.


Did Sophie and James survive the crash in Surface season 2?

Sophie and James plan their escape from London in the final episode of Surface season 2. (Image via AppleTV+)
Sophie and James plan their escape from London in the final episode of Surface season 2. (Image via AppleTV+)

At the end of episode 7, Sophie and her husband James are ambushed by Lucas, the Huntleys’ hired henchman, resulting in a car crash. At the start of episode 8, it’s revealed that both Sophie and James survived. Sophie briefly loses consciousness and regains a childhood memory involving her mother Emma, moments before her death.

Ad

Lucas attempts to finish the job, but James manages to overpower and shoot him in self-defense. The couple flees the scene and hides at a safehouse previously used by Sophie and investigative journalist Callum Walsh.

James urges Sophie not to go to the police, fearing that their past crimes, including fraud and embezzlement, will result in their arrest. However, Sophie becomes increasingly determined to expose the Huntleys and bring justice to her mother.

Ad

What happens to Callum Walsh by the end of Surface season 2

Callum Walsh walks a fine line between betrayal and loyalty in Surface season 2. (Image via AppleTV+)
Callum Walsh walks a fine line between betrayal and loyalty in Surface season 2. (Image via AppleTV+)

Callum, who witnesses the aftermath of the crash, goes to a nearby home to arm himself and get help. By the time he returns, Sophie and James are gone, and Lucas is dead. The police detain Callum for questioning, and he initially tries to protect the couple.

Ad

However, when threatened with legal consequences, Callum is pressured to reveal their location. Although he appears to comply, Callum intentionally leads the police to the wrong apartment. This gives Sophie and James just enough time to escape.

Callum’s decision to mislead the police allows him to walk free. He faces no charges after claiming it was a miscommunication caused by his accent. This act confirms that despite the pressure, he does not betray Sophie and James in the end.

Ad

Who really killed Emma and how Surface season 2 answers the mystery

Olivia Huntley is revealed as the one who accidentally killed Emma in Surface season 2. (Image via AppleTV+)
Olivia Huntley is revealed as the one who accidentally killed Emma in Surface season 2. (Image via AppleTV+)

The core mystery of Surface season 2 revolves around the death of Sophie’s mother, Emma. Officially recorded as an “unclassified” incident, her death occurred on the Huntley estate years ago. In episode 8, Sophie recalls that Emma had gone to the estate to confront Henry Huntley after being threatened by his father, William.

Ad

When Emma forced her way into the house, she encountered Olivia Huntley, who was unaware of Emma’s history with Henry. In a panic, Olivia fired a rifle, killing Emma instantly. The truth had been covered up for years, with Henry protecting Olivia and William ensuring the event remained hidden.

Henry eventually confesses the truth and kills his father, William, by suffocation after a confrontation. He then visits the site where Emma’s body is buried and breaks down. This moment is witnessed by his daughter Eliza, who decides to contact Sophie and provide her with all the information, including the burial location.

Ad

What does the final episode of Surface season 2 mean for Sophie

Sophie decides to confront her past and turn herself in during the Surface season 2 finale. (Image via AppleTV+)
Sophie decides to confront her past and turn herself in during the Surface season 2 finale. (Image via AppleTV+)

After Eliza confirms the truth about her mother Olivia’s involvement and reveals Emma’s burial site, Sophie decides to go to the police with the full story. She helps James flee London and hands over a crypto wallet, preparing for the possibility that she may not be free again.

Ad

Sophie’s decision to surrender is not just about justice for her mother but also about confronting her past. The police reveal that Sophie has been a wanted fugitive for several crimes committed before the events of season 1. These include theft and fraud across multiple countries.

Although Surface season 2 ends with Sophie turning herself in, the unresolved charges and her incomplete memory suggest more revelations could follow in a possible third season.

Ad

Surface season 2 ends with long-standing secrets exposed and significant consequences for each character. Emma Antoine-Day’s death is finally explained, revealing Olivia Huntley as the shooter and William Huntley as the one who created the situation.

Callum walks a thin line between betrayal and loyalty but ultimately helps Sophie. James escapes, while Sophie willingly faces justice, knowing she may finally uncover her identity. The season closes with several threads tied up, yet leaves open the possibility of future developments in Sophie’s ongoing story.

Quick Links

Edited by Urvashi Vijay More
Sportskeeda logo
Close menu
WWE
WWE
NBA
NBA
NFL
NFL
MMA
MMA
Tennis
Tennis
NHL
NHL
Golf
Golf
MLB
MLB
Soccer
Soccer
F1
F1
WNBA
WNBA
More
More
bell-icon Manage notifications