Key Points:
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The Buccaneers book ending suggests Theo never truly loved Nan and hints he may have kept his sexuality secret.
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In the Apple TV+ show, Theo discovers Nan’s betrayal and develops a romantic connection with her best friend, Lizzy.
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Season 2 introduced a kiss between Theo and Lizzy, setting up a different future from the novel’s ending.
Theo’s Romantic Ending in The Buccaneers Book Is Left Unclear
The Buccaneers, based on Edith Wharton’s unfinished novel and completed by Marion Mainwaring, reveals a complex romantic web involving Theo, Nan St. George, and Guy Thwarte. In the original story, Theo marries Nan, but the relationship lacks emotional depth.
Despite their union, Nan harbors feelings for Guy, Theo’s best friend, which leads to a secret affair on the night of her wedding. Theo remains unaware of this betrayal until much later. However, even in the novel, the connection between Nan and Theo is depicted as superficial.
As the story unfolds, Theo’s character is revealed to be gay, explaining his emotional distance and lack of passion in the marriage. Following the breakdown of their relationship, Nan runs away with Guy. The novel does not confirm who Theo ends up with, but it implies that he may have kept his personal desires hidden due to societal pressures. His fate is left ambiguous, suggesting he remained alone or possibly found love in secrecy.
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Does Theo End Up With Lizzy in Apple TV+’s The Buccaneers?
In The Buccaneers Season 2, Theo’s arc takes a surprising turn that may lead to a different romantic conclusion. After learning of Nan’s affair with Guy and discovering she married him only for his title, Theo vanishes for a period to process the betrayal.
When he returns, Nan has already left with Guy, effectively ending their marriage. Instead of remaining isolated or heartbroken, Theo unexpectedly grows close to Lizzy Elmsworth, Nan’s best friend. In Season 2, Episode 4, the two share an emotional moment that culminates in a kiss and leads to them hooking up.
This twist raises questions about whether the show intends to rewrite Theo’s trajectory from the novel. Although the book hinted that Theo was not romantically interested in women, the Apple TV+ series presents his relationship with Lizzy as genuine and emotional. Lizzy, though married to Hector, appears to be drawn to Theo in ways she never experienced with her husband.
Actress Aubri Ibrag, who portrays Lizzy, noted in an interview that the chemistry between Lizzy and Theo was “unexpected” and “overpowering,” adding that it created emotional conflict for her character. Whether this storyline results in a lasting relationship remains uncertain, especially since Lizzy and Theo must keep their romance hidden due to her marriage and their connection to Nan.
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Why The Buccaneers Show May Change Theo’s Fate from the Novel
The Buccaneers TV adaptation on Apple TV+ has taken creative liberties with several plotlines, and Theo’s romantic path appears to be one of them. His storyline in the novel was left deliberately vague, with themes of repression and unspoken truths. However, the showrunners seem to be giving Theo a more active and emotionally involved arc.
The show not only introduces a potential new romance but also reshapes Theo’s response to betrayal and loss. Instead of remaining resigned or bound to duty like in the novel, this version of Theo actively seeks comfort and connection with Lizzy, signaling a possible redemption or second chance at happiness.
Still, the relationship is fraught with complications. Lizzy is married, and her involvement with Theo creates a personal and social dilemma. Nan’s absence does not erase the emotional stakes of such a connection. Any future between Theo and Lizzy will likely require resolution with Nan and the public consequences of their affair.
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What’s Next for Theo in The Buccaneers Season 2?
The Buccaneers Season 2 continues to unravel its characters’ complex emotional decisions, and Theo’s future remains a key focus. Having learned hard truths about Nan and experienced personal betrayal, Theo stands at a crossroads.
While the kiss with Lizzy hints at a fresh romantic beginning, the story hasn’t yet confirmed if this will become a lasting relationship. The secrecy of their affair suggests upcoming challenges, especially with Lizzy still married and Theo recently separated.
As the season progresses, viewers may see whether the show follows the book’s more restrained ending or continues to expand Theo’s narrative toward a new kind of love—one that allows him agency and emotional fulfillment.
For now, the Apple TV+ adaptation leaves the door open for multiple outcomes, keeping Theo’s ultimate fate one of the most compelling questions of the series.
Release Details:
The Buccaneers Season 2 premiered on Apple TV+ on June 18, 2025. New episodes are released weekly.
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