Major Potential Plot Twist in Sweet Magnolias Season 3 Was a Waste of Time
It's arguably the most nonsensical part of the story in this instalment.
The third season of Sweet Magnolias premiered two weeks ago, sparking heated discussions among fans. Some enjoyed the new instalment, while others found it lacking in narrative substance. Regardless of which side of this debate you're on, you will probably agree that season 3 has one specific plot twist that doesn't make much sense.
Conceived as a major story turnaround that would shape the trajectory of the new season, Frances Wingate's decision to sign off all her wealth to Dana Sue left many fans questioning why she was chosen as the heiress. Frances was an older and wiser mentor to Maddie, Dana Sue, and Helen – the Sweet Magnolias trio. Season 2 ended with her passing away, and that's where the third season picks up with the revelation that Frances has left everything to Dana Sue.
There is a letter in which Frances explains that she left her wealth to Dana Sue because she loved her late father, which led her to regard Dana Sue as the step-daughter she never had and develop a special bond with her.
But then again, a lot of fans have noted that France's relationship with Maddie and Helen was just as close and affectionate. Given this context, the rationale behind her decision to leave everything to Dana just doesn't add up, seeing how Maddie is a single mother who was a stay-at-home mom while she was married to Bill, unlike Dana Sue, who owns a successful restaurant, and thus, doesn't really need the money.
'It made no sense. I watch a lot of shows with twists and I thought it was gonna be a huge plot twist. It was a weird dud and a waste of time, but definitely goes along with the absurdity of this show that I am 100% addicted to,' a Redditor commented ironically.
Indeed, Sweet Magnolias' writers never elaborated on this plot development. No additional reasons are ever given, and no consequences are ever mentioned. It was a plot twist for the sake of a plot twist, which may as well have been left out of the story entirely. But then again, the rest of the third season doesn't exactly shine when it comes to logic and consistency.
We can only hope that if season 4 is ever produced, it manages to steer clear of the kind of major disappointments the third season has become somewhat notorious for.
Source: Reddit.