The Parenting Post Credits, Explained

In ‘The Parenting,’ Ro and Josh’s attempts at a perfect getaway are ruined by demonic interferences. The couple have rented out an elaborate farmhouse in the middle of nowhere as a weekend holiday for themselves and their parents. While both men are looking forward to introducing their partners to their families, Ro has a special trick up his sleeve as he’s planning on pulling off a romantic proposal. Nonetheless, after a series of inexplicable events, the two families soon find themselves at the mercy of Andras, a menacing spirit who is haunting the house. As the demonic influence takes possession over Frank, Ro’s otherwise straight-laced father, a world of trouble awaits the couple and their families. The story charts an adventurous journey full of fever dreams, demonic dogs, and infernal plans. Therefore, its rather tame ending may invite some intrigue. SPOILERS AHEAD!

Ro and Josh Put the Weekend Behind Them and Return to Their Regular Lives

Ro and Josh’s narrative in ‘The Parenting’ begins with the pair on the car drive over to the Hazelton Fields farmhouse. The scene offers a perfect image of the distinct family the two men have found with each other—and their dog, Kate. However, in time, their arrival at the weekend rental results in various other characters entering their orbit. Thus, the definition of the couple’s family expands with the two sets of parents, Sharon and Frank, their mismatched counterparts, Liddy and Cliff, and Sara, the best friend. Initially, there is much discord and friction between everyone—partly due to Andras’ demonic influence.

Nonetheless, by the end of the narrative, Ro and Josh’s two families manage to come together as one, protecting each other and defeating their pesky tormentor. During the final showdown, Andras—who has only manifested through mortal possession so far—reveals himself in his true form. He has the head of a raven and the body of a man, which gives him the appearance of a primordial deity. This feeds into its foreboding presence, likely sowing seeds of fear in his human targets. Still, despite his unearthly horror, Ro, Josh, and their families stand up to the demon and ultimately banish him from the mortal plane. Thus, by their second morning at the farmhouse, they have successfully exorcised the place of its demonic influence.

In the aftermath, Josh and Ro get engaged, bringing their stories to a full circle. Their family’s smiles and words of encouragement confirm that they have accepted their respective son’s partner. As such, the purpose of the weekend is achieved, even in spite of the drastic side quest the couple had to undertake. Afterward, everyone takes their leave from the farmhouse, and the newly engaged couple once again finds themselves in their car together. Even though this mirrors their earlier introduction to the story, a clear change has run through both characters.

This is most prominently evident in their topic of conversation: the absurdity of Andras having a raven’s head. Ro and Josh joke about the matter, insulting the demon and challenging his authority due to his hybrid form. Their question over Andras’ physical form invokes the same query numerous people have had about the correlation between birds and ancient deities—from demons like Andras to Gods like the Egyptian Horus. Thus, the scene offers a light-hearted conclusion to the couple’s storylines, showcasing their ability to put their recent trauma behind them and embark forward toward their stories.