Task creator Brad Ingelsby has opened up about Perry’s shocking death in the HBO series’ finale. Speaking in a recent interview, Ingelsby discussed the reasoning behind the character’s fate, describing the scene as “poetic justice.” 

Brad Ingelsby says Perry’s death in Task finale felt ‘like poetic justice’ 

Task creator and showrunner Brad Ingelsby has opened up about Perry’s death in the season finale. In a conversation with Collider, Ingelsby revealed why he chose to end Perry’s story the way he did, calling the scene “poetic justice.”

The showrunner was asked whether Perry’s ultimate fate was an intentional reference to Eryn’s. To this, Ingelsby replied, “Totally. It felt like a bookend. It felt almost like poetic justice that he would die in water the same way.”

According to Ingelsby, the thematic use of water was central to the series from the very beginning. He said, “And also, water is such a theme of the piece. It runs through it in so many different ways, with the quarry and the memories of Billy and the swimming. It just felt like it was a natural end for Perry to be left behind in that way.” 

The showrunner also highlighted that Perry’s death was a tragic one. Despite his attempts to make amends and protect his friend, Perry’s actions resulted in his downfall. Ingelsby said, “And in its own way, it’s a tragedy too. He tried to do right. He was trying to help his friend, and in trying to help his friend, he got himself killed.”

Ingelsby also addressed Jayson’s role in the finale, saying, “Part of the tension in the last episode is knowing he’s still out there and he’s still determined to get something.”

Featuring Mark Ruffalo as the lead of its ensemble cast, Task wrapped up on October 19, 2025.