Editor’s note: The below contains major spoilers for the Ghosts Season 2 finale.

In a jaw-dropping twist that left audiences stunned, the Season 2 finale of Ghosts delivered a major shocker as one of the beloved Woodstone B&B ghosts finally moved on—or as the spirits in the house naively put it, “got sucked off.” With hints dropped throughout the episode, fans are left speculating about the departed ghost’s identity and the implications it holds for Season 3. Let’s take a closer look at who might be out of Woodstone and why this departure sets the stage for an intriguing third season.

While Jay (Utkarsh Ambudkar) hoped it would be Trevor (Asher Grodman), all signs from the Season 2 finale, “The Heir,” point to Lieutenant Colonel Nigel Chessum (John Hartman), the King’s Army veteran, as the ghost who departed to the afterlife. The episode provided subtle clues, such as Nigel’s frustration when Isaac (Brandon Scott Jones) purchased a day-bed that could only accommodate one person. Nigel’s subsequent move into the mansion and his outburst raised questions about his readiness to progress in his relationship with Isaac. Following a heartwarming proposal, the couple decided to move in together, using the advance from Sam’s book to purchase a king-sized bed.

As heartbreaking as it is to consider Nigel’s departure, it is crucial for the show’s narrative progression. Nigel has always been portrayed as a character comfortable with his identity, devoid of secrets, and in tune with his true self. On the other hand, Isaac is still navigating his journey of self-discovery after coming out just a year ago. Isaac’s initial consideration of a bed for himself instead of including Nigel reveals his lingering desire for independence. The deliberate nature of this choice signifies the writers’ intentions and sets the stage for Season 3 to delve into deeper themes while maintaining the show’s half-hour comedy format.

Ghosts has explored themes of regret, shame, and insecurity through its characters, but it has yet to explore the profound impact of loss on these spirits. Unlike Hetty (Rebecca Wisocky), who had experienced loss prior to her afterlife at Woodstone, the other ghosts have not faced the death of a loved one. Nigel’s departure will be a significant catalyst for Season 3, forcing characters like Isaac to confront grief head-on. The suddenness of loss and the inability to bid farewell will challenge the characters, providing an opportunity for emotional depth and growth within the show’s humor.

The decision to bid farewell to a main or recurring character in a series can be crucial for impactful storytelling. By introducing genuine stakes and conflict, writers can avoid complacency and deliver compelling performances from the actors. Ghosts has demonstrated its ability to balance pathos and wit, but Season 3 must push beyond its comfort zone to create a more nuanced and layered series.

Nigel’s departure will undoubtedly affect Isaac, but it will also offer a chance to explore the emotional journeys of other characters grappling with loss. In intertwining life stories and plans, the sudden departure of a character shatters the trajectory of those left behind. By addressing the challenges of grief and exploring its effects on the entire ensemble, Ghosts can deepen its storytelling and resonate with audiences on a more profound level.

Fans of the British counterpart of Ghosts are familiar with the impact of unexpected departures, such as Mary’s sudden exit in the final season. While Ghosts on CBS may not be ready to part with its core eight spirits just yet, this departure can give the show added gravitas and inspire deeper emotions among the remaining characters. Reflecting the