Is 13 Reasons Why season 4 happening, and if so, when will it be released on Netflix? The drama series from Brian Yorkey is based on Jay Asher's 2007 novel of the same name. The intense subject material has made it one of the most controversial shows in recent memory, and a target of much criticism.

Despite the negative response by a segment of viewers, 13 Reasons Why is a popular program for Netflix and it has acquired a loyal following. The series began by telling the tragic suicidal tale of Hannah Baker, but it has since turned into a murder mystery. After outing Bryce Walker as a publicized villain in season 2, the most recent installment shifted focus by investigating his mysterious murder.

Related: 13 Reasons Why: Who Killed Bryce Walker & Their Motive Explained

13 Reasons Why might have scrubbed away one of its most graphic scenes, but it still used the opportunity in season 3 to touch on discussions such as gun violence, reproductive rights, immigration, and drug use. Season 3 also introduced a new character, Ani Achola, who served as the show's narrator through Bryce's murder investigation, and also became imperative to the core investigation. But it's evident that the trouble for those from Liberty High is far from over.

13 Reasons Why Season 4 Renewal Details

Dylan Minnette in 13 Reasons Why Season 3

As part of 13 Reasons Why season 3's release date announcement, Netflix announced that the series had been renewed for a fourth and final season. Based on the loose ends left by season 3, another season seemed necessary to officially close out the story. Knowing season 4 will be the last will give the creative team a chance at ending 13 Reasons Why the way they always intended.

13 Reasons Why Season 4 Release Date

Unlike some shows on Netflix, 13 Reasons Why's release dates for each season have been scattered. Season 1 debuted in March, whereas season 2 debuted in May. Season 3 was pushed back even further until August so the scheduling is difficult to predict. Considering that the series doesn't have to wait for an official renewal, the team has a jumpstart on production for season 4. It's likely that the final season will be ready in 2020, either in late summer or early fall.

13 Reasons Why Season 4 Story Details

13 Reasons Why Grace Saif

Showrunner Brian Yorkey and Netflix have a habit of keeping details centering on 13 Reasons Why under lock and key until the weeks before new episodes drop. It will presumably be the same for season 4, but there is one detail that reveals a major plot point: season 4 will focus on Clay Jensen and his fellow Liberty High classmates as they prepare for graduation. Much of the final season presumably follows the ensemble as they prepare to leave their secrets behind and prepare for life outside of high school.

13 Reasons Why season 3 officially closed out Bryce's murder investigation but the real truth may loom over some characters. Ani successfully pinned Bryce's murder on Montgomery de la Cruz, but the real killer, Alex Standall, might not be in the free and clear. Clay may have also been exonerated from the crime in question, but seeing as though a fisherman found Tyler Down's guns, he could be thrown back into suspicion. If one thing is clear, it's that those living in Evergreen still have plenty to worry about - because secrets never stay hidden for long in that town.

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