The Life List Ending Explained: What is the Secret that was kept from Alex?

Netflix’s The Life List delivers a heartfelt blend of romance, self-discovery, and humor, following Alex Rose (Sofia Carson) as she navigates a unique challenge left behind by her late mother, Elizabeth (Connie Britton). 

Based on Lori Nelson Spielman’s novel and directed by Adam Brooks, the film presents a modern twist on P.S. I Love You, replacing letters with pre-recorded DVDs guiding Alex through her grief and personal growth. Let’s breakdown and see how Alex finds love and herself.

What Secret Did Alex Learn About her Mother?

Alex had always felt like the favored child. After all, she was the one working alongside her mother at her cosmetics company. However, her life took an unexpected turn when Elizabeth’s lawyer, Brad, revealed that she hadn’t inherited anything—except a note and a DVD. Her mother had given her a challenge- Complete the life list she wrote at thirteen to earn her inheritance.

While initially reluctant, Alex gradually embraced the journey, left her unfulfilling relationship, and reignited long-lost dreams in the process. The life list revealed a major secret to Alex: Her father, Samuel, wasn’t her biological father. She had always believed that he had abandoned her, but in reality, Elizabeth had cheated on him.

Elizabeth had an affair with Johnny, a musician who had abandoned them. This painful truth explains their distant relationship, but the truth also allows Alex to mend their bond.

When did Alex Realize that Garrett Wasn’t the one?

Amid fulfilling her list, Alex found herself drawn to Garrett, a lawyer at her firm. However, their differences became clear—he struggled to connect with her life and values. Meanwhile, Brad helped her track down her biological father, Johnny, a musician.

The trip to Vermont with Brad and his girlfriend, Nina, proved life-changing, as Nina noticed the undeniable chemistry between Alex and Brad, leading to their breakup. After a night of drinking, Alex and Brad end up together. However, the next morning, Johnny failed to show up, proving he had no real interest in being part of her life.

Heartbroken, Alex realized she had been chasing an illusion. Later, Garrett tried to rekindle their relationship, but Alex had already moved on, and she refused to compromise her happiness.

What did Alex Inherit?

Despite not finding love by New Year’s, Alex still got her inheritance. After all, Elizabeth had foreseen this. In her final letter, Elizabeth still granted Alex her inheritance: their childhood home. More than just property, the house was a symbol of love, connection, and growth, reminding Alex that she was never truly alone.

Did Alex find true love?

Elizabeth’s last DVD reminded Alex that love is worth fighting for. Reflecting on the four questions her mother had shared—Is he kind? Can I tell him everything in my heart? Does he help me become the best version of myself? Can you imagine him as the father of your children?—Alex realized Brad was the one.

Rushing to Brad’s apartment, she found him hesitant, fearing she only wanted friendship. But when she confessed her love, he was thrilled. Their relationship, built on trust and mutual support, was exactly what her mother had hoped for. The family celebrated New Year’s in Elizabeth’s house, cherishing the bonds she had helped strengthen, even in her absence.

How did Alex Complete her life list?

Throughout her journey, Alex leaned on her support system—her brothers, Brad, and close friends—to complete her list. From getting a tattoo to teaching at a women’s shelter, every challenge pushed her closer to rediscovering her true self. Her final task—finding true love—took longer than expected, but her mother had planned for that, ensuring Alex received her inheritance regardless.

Why Alex and Brad were Destined to be Together

Unlike Finn and Garrett, Brad supported Alex unconditionally, helping her reconnect with her father and pursue her passions. He checked every box on Elizabeth’s love test, proving he was the right person for her.

The real Reason Alex’s Brother Resented her

Alex’s brother, Julian, had always seemed distant. Eventually, he confessed that his resentment stemmed from feeling excluded. He had felt jealous of Alex’s close bond with their mother. Their emotional heart-to-heart allowed them to finally connect, healing old wounds.

The Life List’s Message: Growth and love go hand in hand

The Life List is more than just a love story—it’s about personal growth, resilience, and embracing the unknown. With humor, heartfelt moments, and a journey of self-discovery, The Life List reminds us that while love is worth fighting for, the most important relationship we have is the one with ourselves.

The Life List is now streaming on Netflix.