Survival of the Thickest Season 3 Review: Michelle Buteau Delivers a Heartfelt Final Bow

In-demand comedian Michelle Buteau continues to shine in the third and final season of Netflix’s “Survival of the Thickest.” The directors for Season 3 include Amy Aniobi, Kim Nguyen, Danielle Sanchez-Witzel (episode 3), and Michelle Buteau (episode 5), who also handles the writing.

When we last left Mavis, she had reunited with Luca Marouane Zotti and found some tranquility while working with the arrogant designer Charles Renee (RonReaco Lee).  Season 3 picks up with Mavis living her best life, maintaining the formula that made the first two seasons a success.  The episodes move quickly, and Buteau continues to showcase her sharp comedic timing.  She commands every room she enters, and her smile is incredibly infectious.

Season 3 also provides Khalil (Tone Bell) with a strong character arc.  We learn more about why Khalil is the way he is, and he has two memorable interactions that feature cameos from Ice-T and DL Hughley.  While I won’t reveal how these cameos relate to Khalil’s story, I would love to see a spin-off centered on him and his adventures, especially one plot point that really develops his future.  Bell and Buteau continue to have great chemistry, and the show keeps them as family friends while avoiding a romantic angle.

The biggest surprise of the season, however, is the dramatic range that Buteau displays in Episode 5, which she also directed.  Without giving away spoilers, I can say it’s an impactful episode.  I hope Netflix campaigns for an Emmy for Buteau because she truly deserves it.  I’ll miss “Survival of the Thickest,” but I take comfort in knowing that Mavis got her happy ending.

Season 3 of “Survival of the Thickest” is fast paced, filled with heart, and serves as a wonderful send-off.

Final Grade: B+

“Survival of the Thickest” Season 3 is available to stream now on Netflix