‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’ Finale Honors Lynne Marie Stewart, Brings Back ‘Taxi’

Funny, nostalgic, and emotionally wrenching were all there in the 17th season finale of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. One of the most memorable episodes in recent memory, this one was noted for its boundary-pushing and wild comedic antics, but it also shocked viewers with touching tributes and surprising reunions.

RIP Lynne Marie Stewart

The finale was bittersweet as it remembered Lynne Marie Stewart, who died at 78 in February. Stewart played Charlie Kelly’s odd but charming mother, Bonnie Kelly, for 20 years. Her role, typically at the center of chaotic yet humorous storylines, became essential to the show.

Stewart made a surprise Golden Bachelor-themed return in the finale before her death. In “The Golden Bachelor Live,” Frank Reynolds (Danny DeVito) chose a companion in a reality show. Bonnie was a last-minute wildcard due to her difficult relationship with Frank.

In a classic Always Sunny tantrum, her son Charlie threw a salad bowl in exasperation over her involvement. Stewart’s presence was poignant, reminding fans of her importance to the series behind the comedy. Stewart’s longtime role was commemorated in a montage to “Always on My Mind,” a touching goodbye.

Remembering Bonnie Kelly

Bonnie Kelly was no ordinary It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia character. She captured the show’s wild, eccentric atmosphere, blending comedy with sadness. Stewart joined the show for its 2005 premiere and became a fan favorite. In her relationship with her son Charlie, she showed the characters’ darker yet human aspect.

The ending tribute showed how important Stewart was to the series. Reminding fans that beyond the crazy comedy, the show has always been about its characters and their legacy.

A Show-stealing ‘Taxi’ Reunion

Stewart’s goodbye was the finale’s most poignant moment, but another surprise added nostalgia. Danny DeVito and Carol Kane reunited over four decades after their Taxi days.

On The Golden Bachelor, Kane played Sam, a woman competing for Frank’s love. Frank and Sam formed a surprising bond after another ridiculous Always Sunny gag. This emotional connection stood out because the program’s ridiculous stories rarely convey sincerity.

This reunion was evident to classic TV fans. During the conclusion, DeVito and Kane maintained their chemistry as Taxi’s Louie De Palma and Simka Dahblitz-Gravas. Their relationship gave the show depth and showed that kindness can shine through chaos.

Season Finale Mixed Turmoil and Emotion

After nearly 20 years, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia surprised viewers in the season 17 finale. Unlike other sitcoms, the episode’s absurd humor, emotional depth, and nostalgic callbacks made viewers laugh and cry.

DeVito and Kane’s reunion highlighted generational television links, while the show’s dedication to Lynne Marie Stewart showed its actors and viewers.

The season 17 finale will undoubtedly be one of Always Sunny’s most moving, illustrating that true emotion can come through in its chaotic atmosphere.

Sources

• FX Networks – It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia

• Deadline

• Variety

• The Hollywood Reporter