Alex Standall is one of the more complex and evolving characters in Netflix’s controversial series *13 Reasons Why*. Introduced as a seemingly confident jock with a close friendship group, Alex quickly reveals layers of internal conflict, identity struggles, and emotional vulnerability. Over the course of four seasons, his journey takes dramatic turns — from social missteps and personal guilt to mental health crises and recovery efforts. Understanding what happened to Alex requires tracing his psychological development, relationships, and pivotal decisions that shaped his fate.
The Early Seasons: A Spiral of Guilt and Identity Crisis
In Season 1, Alex is introduced as part of Hannah Baker’s orbit — a popular student who briefly dates her and later creates a “hot or not” list that ranks female students, including Hannah. Though intended as a joke among friends, the list deeply humiliates several girls, contributing to the toxic school culture that exacerbates Hannah’s isolation. When Alex hears Hannah’s tapes, he is devastated to learn he played an indirect role in her downward spiral.
This revelation triggers a profound identity crisis. Alex begins questioning his place in the social hierarchy, his friendships, and his own morality. His relationship with Jessica Davis grows closer, but his inability to fully confront his complicity in the school’s harmful dynamics strains their bond. By the end of Season 1, Alex attempts suicide in the school bathroom, a moment that shocks both viewers and characters alike.
Survival and Recovery: The Road to Rehabilitation
Alex survives the suicide attempt but suffers a traumatic brain injury that affects his memory, speech, and motor skills. Season 2 focuses heavily on his rehabilitation process. He attends therapy, works with a speech therapist, and slowly relearns how to communicate and function socially. This period marks a turning point in his character — no longer defined by popularity, he begins rebuilding himself with greater empathy and self-awareness.
His vulnerability allows for deeper connections, especially with Cyrus Plummer, a fellow student dealing with abuse and sexuality issues. Their romantic relationship becomes one of the show’s most nuanced portrayals of healing through mutual support. However, it also exposes Alex to new challenges, including homophobia, manipulation, and betrayal.
“Alex’s journey reflects how trauma can strip away superficial identities and force a confrontation with one’s true self.” — Dr. Lena Peterson, Clinical Psychologist specializing in adolescent trauma
Setbacks and Escalation: Season 3’s Downward Turn
Despite progress, Season 3 sees Alex regressing under pressure. After Bryce Walker’s murder, Alex becomes a suspect due to circumstantial evidence — including being seen near the scene and having a motive (Bryce raped Jessica, whom Alex cares about). The investigation isolates him further, and he begins using drugs to cope with anxiety and PTSD symptoms.
His relationship with Cyrus deteriorates after Alex discovers Cyrus lied about protecting him during an assault. Trust erodes, and Alex spirals into paranoia and substance abuse. In a desperate attempt to prove his innocence and uncover the truth, he breaks into the police evidence room and steals a gun. This act leads to his arrest and placement in juvenile detention.
While incarcerated, Alex faces violence and institutional neglect. These experiences deepen his trauma but also harden his resolve to survive. He eventually cooperates with investigators, helping them piece together the events surrounding Bryce’s death. Though not the killer, his actions highlight how systemic failures push vulnerable youth toward dangerous choices.
Redemption and Advocacy: Final Arc in Season 4
By Season 4, Alex is released from detention and returns to Liberty High with a renewed sense of purpose. He joins Ani, Clay, and others in confronting Monty de la Cruz’s legacy of abuse and the cover-up involving the football team and school administration. Alex becomes an advocate for accountability, pushing back against the culture of silence that enabled so much harm.
He also seeks reconciliation with Cyrus, acknowledging his own flaws and expressing regret over how their relationship ended. Though they don’t reunite romantically, there’s a sense of closure and mutual respect. Alex’s final scenes show him speaking openly about mental health, encouraging other students to seek help and reject toxic masculinity.
Unlike many characters in *13 Reasons Why*, Alex survives the series. His ending is cautiously optimistic — not triumphant, but grounded in realism. He hasn’t “fixed” everything; he still carries scars. But he has grown into someone capable of empathy, resilience, and advocacy.
Alex Standall’s Character Timeline
| Season | Key Events | Emotional State |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Creates \"hot or not\" list; learns he contributed to Hannah's pain; attempts suicide | Guilt-ridden, confused, isolated |
| 2 | Recovers from brain injury; starts therapy; begins relationship with Cyrus | Vulnerable, reflective, hopeful |
| 3 | Becomes suspect in Bryce’s murder; uses drugs; arrested and jailed | Anxious, paranoid, self-destructive |
| 4 | Released; supports investigation; advocates for change; reconciles with past | Resilient, mature, purpose-driven |
Common Misconceptions About Alex’s Story
- Myth: Alex was just another insensitive jock.
Reality: While his early actions were thoughtless, the series deliberately contrasts his initial persona with deep remorse and growth.
- Myth: His suicide attempt was attention-seeking.
Reality: The show portrays it as a genuine cry for help rooted in shame and depression — consistent with clinical understandings of adolescent suicidal behavior.
- Myth: He got off easy after stealing a gun.
Reality: His time in juvenile detention was depicted as traumatic and punitive, serving as a consequence rather than a resolution.
Lessons from Alex’s Journey: A Checklist for Resilience
Alex’s story offers practical insights into coping with guilt, trauma, and societal pressure. Readers navigating similar struggles may benefit from this checklist:
- Recognize when your actions have hurt others — take responsibility without self-destruction.
- Seek professional help after trauma or mental health crises; recovery is non-linear.
- Build relationships based on honesty and mutual support, not image or status.
- Challenge harmful social norms, even when it’s unpopular.
- Allow yourself to evolve — identity isn’t fixed, especially during adolescence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Alex die in 13 Reasons Why?
No, Alex Standall survives the series. Although he attempts suicide in Season 1 and faces life-threatening consequences in later seasons, he is alive at the end of Season 4.
Was Alex responsible for Bryce’s murder?
No. While Alex had motive and was briefly suspected, the show reveals that Bryce was killed by Matt Miller in self-defense during an assault. Alex stole the gun but did not use it to kill anyone.
What happens to Alex and Cyrus?
Alex and Cyrus share a meaningful but troubled relationship. They break up due to trust issues, but in Season 4, they reconcile emotionally. They do not get back together romantically, but part ways with mutual understanding and care.
Final Reflections: Why Alex’s Story Matters
Alex Standall’s arc stands out in *13 Reasons Why* because it avoids easy answers. He is neither a hero nor a villain — he’s a teenager trying to navigate guilt, identity, and systemic failure. His survival does not erase his pain, but it affirms that growth is possible even after severe setbacks.
In a show filled with tragedy, Alex represents cautious hope. He shows that accountability, therapy, and authentic relationships can pave a path forward. For viewers grappling with similar emotions — shame, confusion, or mental health struggles — his journey underscores a vital message: healing isn’t about becoming perfect. It’s about becoming honest.
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