Exclusive: Susan Kelechi Watson, Eboni Freeman and Christiana Hooks of ‘This Is Us’ Talk Favorite Episodes, Season Finale Tears and More [Video]

“This Is Us” has officially ended, and numerous cast members have opened up about their experiences on the show. 

In an exclusive interview with Baller Alert actress/writer Susan Kelechi Watson, writer/producer Eboni Freeman and producer Christiana Hooks delve into a poignant conversation about emotions during the final season, favorite episodes, and more.

Fans of the popular drama series are no stranger to the emotions the show provokes, and apparently, Watson, Freeman, and Hooks aren’t either. “I think we’ve all had moments where we cried — especially about the last two episodes,” Watson said.

The three shared how episode 17, titled “The Train” by Dan Fogelman, was the episode that made everyone sob.

“I was not prepared,” said Freeman. 

“When Dan did these last two episodes, it just felt like the end of something,” Watson said. “I felt the weight of the six years we had done this coming to an end when I read that script.”

Watson’s role as Beth Pearson gave viewers a candid look into the life of a black woman dealing with issues not typically discussed on primetime television. She shared how she had the opportunity to co-write an episode with Eboni Freeman called “Our Little Island Girl: Part Two,” where she contributed to the show from a writer’s perspective for the first time.

“Working with Eboni was so amazing. She’s truly great at her craft,” said Watson. The actress shared how Freeman originally came from the sports industry and easily segued into their world.

“This Is Us” seemed like the perfect balance of sadness and hopefulness — focused on how the Pearson family has supported, loved, and influenced each other through generations. Over the six-year duration of the show, Watson shares her favorite comments from fans. 

“There have been so many great ones, but I remember when people legit thank me for being Beth because they felt like they were represented as a black woman,” said Watson.

She also shared how encounters with other women have allowed her to create relatable characters and relatable situations.

“No matter who you are or where you are — fans share how the show touches on conversations that we don’t usually see on television,” said Freeman.

Although the Emmy award-winning show has come to a bitter-sweet end, it has had an impact that’ll last a lifetime. We will sincerely miss the Pearson family.