Michelle Buteau is saying goodbye to the series that helped redefine representation in comedy.

The comedian, actress and creator returns as Mavis Beaumont for the third and final season of Netflix’s Survival of the Thickest, which premiered Thursday. Inspired by Buteau’s book of essays, the comedy follows Mavis, a plus-size Black stylist navigating love, friendship and a career in New York City’s fashion world.

Speaking with Local 10’s Alexis Frazier, Buteau said fans can expect the final season to deliver everything they’ve loved about the show.

“This final season you can expect, I mean, a whole lotta laughter,” Buteau said.

She described the new episodes as packed with “hijinks, friendship, sex, real life stuff,” promising an emotional and entertaining conclusion to Mavis’ story.

The final season picks up after the whirlwind events of the previous two installments, with Mavis embracing a fresh start in both her personal and professional life. While the series continues its signature humor, Buteau said it also isn’t afraid to push boundaries.

When asked whether there was a moment this season that surprised even her, Buteau responded with an enthusiastic “Yes,” adding that the show “takes it there” in the best possible way.

Beyond the comedy, Buteau said one of the series’ greatest achievements has been giving viewers someone they don’t often see leading a television comedy.

“It’s not only the world I live in, but it’s the world that I want to see on TV and in film,” she said.

The show has earned praise for centering a confident, successful plus-size Black woman pursuing her dreams while learning to balance romance, friendship and self-love.

Buteau admitted she didn’t initially realize how deeply the series would resonate with audiences.

“I knew what we were doing was good and entertaining, but I don’t think I knew how important it was, you know, until the first season aired,” she said. “I was like, ‘Oh wow, people feel seen.’”

Over the course of three seasons, Buteau said the experience has also shaped her as a writer.

“I feel like my comedy evolves as I evolve as a human being,” she said. “I just feel like you have to be responsible with your words and intention.”

As for how Mavis’ journey comes to an end, Buteau couldn’t be happier.

Asked whether she liked where the characters ultimately landed, she laughed before answering, “I don’t like it... I love it.”

The final season also features several celebrity cameos, including Ice-T, Kandi Burruss and Wanda Sykes.

All episodes of the third and final season of Survival of the Thickest are now streaming on Netflix.

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