In the first episode of TV Land’s show “Younger“, Liza Miller (played by Sutton Foster), a 40-year-old divorced mother who struggled to find work in publishing after taking time off to raise her college-age daughter, was advised by her friend Maggie (Debi Mazar) to falsify her age on her résumé and claim she was just 26. With a fashionable outfit suitable for a young Brooklyn resident, a hair makeover, and an enormous leap of faith, the deception succeeded. Liza landed a job at Empirical Publishing as a youthful newcomer, meaning she had to maintain this facade to keep her position, until season six, episode eight, where things changed.
In that particular episode, it’s revealed that Pauline Turner Brooks (Jennifer Westfeldt), Charles’s (Peter Hermann) ex-wife, uncovers a shocking truth: the woman who is dating her ex, spending time with her daughters, and essentially kickstarted her writing career, is not as she appears. Needless to say, Pauline is enraged, and being the blunt person she is, decides to expose Liza Miller in front of the entire world during a major publishing event intended to honor their professional partnership. As they say, ex-wives can sure stir up drama!
Indeed, it’s worth noting that even though only six seasons have passed in the world of the series, Liza’s secret has been fully exposed, effectively shattering the foundation of Younger. Now, even the last three characters to find out, Lauren (Molly Bernard), Zane (Charles Michael Davis), and the formidable Diana Trout (Miriam Shor) are in on it. Here’s an interesting point: Liza’s real age was quite the open secret within publishing. Whether she chose to confess her true identity to someone dear to her, or if her IDs simply slipped out of her wallet—an occurrence that actually happened—characters both major and minor were discovering the truth left and right!
If you’re skeptical about my claims, let’s instead examine the sequence of events when each person discovered Liza’s secret and their subsequent actions. By revisiting some major disclosures, it becomes clear that Liza’s deception was bound to be exposed eventually.
Josh (Nico Tortorella)
When does he find out? “Hot Mitzvah” (Season 1, Episode 11)
At Lauren’s lively celebration, commonly known as a mitzvah party, she drugged everyone present with Molly. As they all rolled, Josh and Liza confessed their feelings for each other by saying “I love you” for the first time. Feeling emotional, Liza then chose to reveal her deepest secrets.
So, how does he react to the news? Josh seems quite upset, not just due to the age discrepancy, but mainly due to the deception and his misunderstanding about the dragon tattoo. Unfortunately, Liza wasn’t born during the Year of the Dragon.
After Liza presents a slideshow, it becomes clear that they must start anew due to some major issues in their relationship. Despite the challenges, such as Josh disliking Liza’s dishonesty, Liza not wanting children, and Liza being caught acting inappropriately with her boss, they decide to part ways for good (or so it seems).
https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=sumRVQKdTKA
Cheryl Sussman (Martha Plimpton)
When does she find out? “The Old Ma’am and the C” (Season 1, Episode 12)
How does Cheryl discover this? Cheryl, a representative from a competing publishing company, dines with Diana Trout in hopes of gathering information about Empirical’s bid for an Ellen DeGeneres book. During the meal, she comes to find out that Liza is Diana’s young assistant. This wouldn’t be a problem if it weren’t for the fact that Cheryl and Liza previously worked together at Random House in the past.
So, how does Cheryl Sussman react to the news? She’s absolutely thrilled, as Cheryl Sussman thrives on underhanded tactics, and now she has the most underhanded information to use against others.
When Cheryl attempts to coerce Liza into disclosing confidential information, Liza employs a classic strategy of counter-blackmail, effectively frustrating all of Cheryl’s attempts. Although Cheryl does not directly reveal Liza’s secret, she persistently teases Liza about knowing it. In the fifth season, after Liza declines a significant job offer from Cheryl, she decides to disseminate a news story regarding her affair with Charles, but chooses not to disclose Liza’s true age. Despite being a difficult and challenging character, Cheryl is endearing in many ways.
Dr. Jane Wray (Camryn Manheim)
When does she find out? “Beyond Therapy” (Season 2, Episode 8)
How does Cheryl Sussman discover this information? The doctor-patient confidentiality rule seems to be protecting Dr. Wray’s book from being acquired by Empirical’s Millennial imprint. However, before Sussman could expose Liza fully, she became a patient of Dr. Wray and shared everything with her. By making a deal that allows Dr. Wray to include Liza’s story anonymously in her book if it is published under the Millennial imprint, Sussman managed to secure the book for her own publishing house while keeping Liza’s identity hidden. It seems that using deception as a bargaining chip can work both ways.
Well, how does she take the news? Oh, she is very interested in Liza Miller.
As for the aftermath, things seem to be calm for now. There’s chatter about the anonymous case study subject potentially appearing on “Ellen”, but Liza swiftly dismisses it. Here’s hoping that Liza continues her sessions with Dr. Wray, as she appears to need some guidance in managing her dual identity. If anyone requires counseling, it seems to be our double-life lady.
Thad (Dan Amboyer)
When does he find out? “Secrets and Liza” (Season 2, Episode 11)
How did the secret come to light? As Liza was about to reveal a video of Thad with a coworker, caught in a compromising situation in his office bathroom, she unexpectedly ran into her college-aged daughter Caitlin. This encounter set off a chain reaction, causing Liza’s story to fall apart piece by piece.
So, how does Thad react when he learns the news? Is there any connection between Thad and Cheryl Sussman? He intends to use Liza for his own gain as much as possible… However, Liza informs him that she will reveal her secret if he continues; instead, she decides not to let Kelsey marry such a scoundrel. Oh, what a friend indeed!
The incident involving the construction beam falling from a crane unfortunately resulted in Thad’s death. This unexpected event, though not directly caused by Liza, was a shocking turn of events that seems like an unreal twist (deus ex machina) and deserves more discussion among everyone involved. After all, it came down from a crane!
Emily (Fiona Robert) and Pearl the Labradoodle, who knows all
When does she find out? “A Book Fair to Remember” (Season 3, Episode 11)
How does she uncover this information? She delves deeper for her article about Millennials, and by using the Dartmouth alumni database, she unearths Liza’s actual age. Despite appearing naive, Emily is far from it, and unfortunately for Liza, she’s quite resourceful in her investigation.
So, how does she react to the news? She’s quite pleased with it, as this gives her leverage to persuade Liza to publish “Pearls of Wisdom,” a self-help book that allegedly comes from the viewpoint of her dog, Pearl.
What’s the consequence? Here’s an interesting turn of events: Millennial is compelled to write a book about caring for Labradoodles, which might seem embarrassing at first, but ends up being a massive success! As for Liza, she finds herself accessorizing a dog with a merkin, but don’t worry, she’s the one who’s been caught in fraudulent activities!
Kelsey (Hilary Duff)
When does she find out? “Get Real” (Season 3, Episode 12)
After Josh accuses Liza of lying, cheating, and hurting those she cares about (and he might be right), Liza realizes it’s time to follow Hilary Duff’s advice from her 2004 song and confess to her best friend. (I can’t help but make that joke.)
Well, how does she take the news? No exaggeration, horribly.
What’s the consequence of this rift? The friendship between Liza-Kelsey seems to mirror the passionate love story from ‘Younger’, so when Kelsey discovers the truth, their separation is particularly painful. Indeed, Kelsey’s heart is shattered! Fortunately, it lasts for approximately three episodes, and once Kelsey witnesses Liza being a devoted mother, they reconcile, with Kelsey becoming Liza’s strongest supporter in hiding her secret.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=watch?v=c9BZcuvA5oI
Jay (Aasif Mandvi)
When does he find out? “A Close Shave” (Season 4, Episode 6)
How did he discover the information? After encountering Liza during a writing workshop, he bumped into her again with Caitlin, who affectionately called Liza “mom” as kids often do for their mothers. Liza didn’t have a convincing excuse and ended up sharing everything with Jay during their dinner together.
So, how does he react to the news? As if it’s no big deal. Not only does he choose to keep her confidence, but he even goes out of his way to save her from being discovered multiple times. The remarkable aspect about Jay is that he doesn’t ask for anything in return. No threats or leverage here! He’s simply too noble for this world.
After Jay and Liza had a brief romance, it turned out that Liza’s heart was set on someone else. However, the most valuable outcome from their relationship is that it made Charles confess his feelings for Liza in one of the show’s most memorable scenes. You know the scene I mean. “I don’t understand why you’re dating a 40-something man in publishing who isn’t me!” Charles exclaimed. We will never be able to thank you enough, Jay, for that.
Charles (Peter Hermann)
When does he find out? “#LizaToo” (Season 5, Episode 1)
How does Moore prove his innocence after being dropped for sexual misconduct accusations? After losing his largest author position due to charges of sexual harassment, Moore counters by presenting evidence that would discredit all his accusers, including Liza Miller who he claims is a fraud. Edward L.L. Moore has the proof!
How does he react to the news? Quite intensely, it seems. About 10% of him feels a slight sense of relief for not having fallen for a 27-year-old, while the remaining 90% is seething with anger towards Liza for her betrayal. His anger is palpable. He distances himself from her at work and gradually becomes increasingly cold and manipulative until he can no longer contain his emotions. Eventually, he confronts her in a public setting in Manhattan, not exactly telling her the truth, but rather shouting it out on a bustling sidewalk.
What’s the aftermath looking like? Things at work seem tough for a while, people are casting significant glances about, and the publication of Charles’s ex-wife’s book titled “Marriage Vacation” adds an extra layer of complexity. However, he eventually sees Liza in her true light, and his feelings for her deepen even further. We’re still smitten!
Don Ridley (Christian Borle)
When does he find out? “Big Little Liza” (Season 5, Episode 5)
How did he discover this? During their date, Liza slipped on some ice, causing her belongings to scatter. Among them were both of her IDs, which landed on the sidewalk. This led Don to ask questions, one of which was not “Why is your wallet so slippery that your IDs fell out of it?” but rather, a more appropriate question would have been something like, “How did your wallet allow your IDs to fall out so easily?
Well, how does he react to the news? To her face, he claims to accept the idea of going to any lengths for their child. But secretly, he’s planning to write a big article about her for Vanity Fair.
What happened as a result? The article was retracted prior to publication, and Don didn’t appear to pursue it further, suggesting he may not be the most diligent journalist.
Caitlin (Tessa Albertson)
When does she find out? “Girls on the Side” (Season 5, Episode 10)
By what means does she discover this? Following the injury caused by Caitlin’s clandestine romance with her college professor, Liza confides in her daughter about the situation.
How does she react to the news? Does she find it amusing or surprising, Liza? It seems quite unexpected!
How has it affected things, if at all? Well, it seems like a chance for some strengthened mother-daughter bonding is in store. At least, Caitlin can now avoid unintentionally revealing Liza’s whereabouts anymore.
Quinn Tyler (Laura Benanti)
When does she find out? “Lizability” (Season 5, Episode 12)
How does Liza end up revealing the truth? When Liza decides to invest in Empirical for Millennials, both Liza and Charles understand that for the investment to be clean, Liza should have no involvement with it. Liza proposes leaving to work with Cheryl Sussman instead, but when she shares her intentions with Quinn, Quinn remains unconvinced by her explanation. Consequently, Liza discloses everything to Quinn.
How does she respond to the news? She’s quite enthusiastic about it. She believes that revealing Liza’s secret to the public and portraying her as a symbol of ageism could significantly boost Liza, Millennials, and above all, her own book.
After Quinn’s involvement in Liza’s predicament, she declines Cheryl’s proposal. In retaliation, Cheryl exposes Charles and Liza’s relationship to “Page Six,” causing Quinn to withdraw her investment. The scandal is so immense that it’s difficult for Quinn to spin a favorable narrative under current circumstances… until Charles suggests he’ll relinquish his public role in the company and let Kelsey take charge instead. Charles sacrifices his position (he’ll become the chairman of the board) to be with Liza, but doing so risks the collapse of his family’s business. This decision is momentous, potentially reshaping their lives drastically. In short, the consequences are extensive and far-reaching – encompassing all the upheaval one could anticipate.
Pauline Turner Brooks (Jennifer Westfeldt)
When does she find out? “The Debu-taunt” (Season 6, Episode 8)
How does she discover it? To reconcile with Liza, she gets her enlisted in the official pickup list from the girls’ school. When Pauline mentions to the office staff that there isn’t much they can do about an ex’s girlfriend in her twenties, the staff member essentially says, “I haven’t been involved much in this show, so I don’t grasp the importance or privacy regulations, but here you go, take a look at Liza’s driver’s license — she’s 42.”
So, how does she react to the news? The woman becomes quite angry. Upon discovering that Charles was aware of Liza’s deception and failed to inform her while allowing Deceitful Liza to be around their children, she chooses to use a public speaking opportunity at a Publishers Weekly event for new authors to expose Liza in front of everyone. As the saying goes, “Forgive and forget” isn’t always easy.
Consequences are imminent, especially regarding the Diana situation and since the story is now public, there will be significant repercussions for Millennial. Meanwhile, Pauline informs Charles that she plans to modify their custody arrangement with legal help. As predicted, this is becoming a nuclear scenario.
Zane Anders (Charles Michael Davis)
When does he find out? “The Debu-taunt” (Season 6, Episode 8)
How does he learn about it? He’s right there, front row, at the Publishers Weekly event, where Pauline openly discusses Liza.
So, how does Zane react to the news? Although he’s not close to Liza personally, he’s upset that he’s among the last to learn about it, and he’s concerned about its potential impact on the business.
What’s the fallout? A lot of dirty looks and disappointed head shakes in Liza’s general direction.
Lauren Heller (Molly Bernard)
When does she find out? “The Debu-taunt” (Season 6, Episode 8)
How will she discover this information? As our PR expert sits among the millennials, Pauline ignites a conversation, metaphorically speaking. Lauren is about to be kept busy!
What’s her reaction to the news? Lauren, being brought up to respect elders, addresses Liza as ‘Ms. Miller’. She also wonders how she didn’t realize earlier, given that she knew Liza thought Four Loko was a rapper.
The consequences aren’t clear yet, but given the situation, it’s understandable that she appears shocked. After all, discovering that a long-time friend has been dishonest throughout their friendship is bound to come as a shock. However, based on her character, Lauren doesn’t seem like the type to bear a grudge over this incident.
Diana Trout (Miriam Shor)
When does she find out? “The Debu-taunt” (Season 6, Episode 8)
In what manner does she come to know? Queen Trout learns when Pauline exposes Liza at the PW event. However, it isn’t until Diana rebukes Pauline for being vindictive (notice Diana standing up for her friend in front of everyone!) and Liza admits that Pauline’s words are true, that Diana fully understands. Her long-time friend, the one she chose as her maid of honor, has been deceiving her directly. An extra shock comes when she realizes she was the last to be informed. She feels like a fool, believing herself to be the village simpleton.
I wonder, how might she react to the news, given that she had a panic attack right in Times Square?
Diana surprisingly forgives Liza quickly after their disagreement. At first, she’s puzzled about why Liza would go to such lengths for this specific job. However, as Diana recounts the tasks Liza has completed over the years, it shifts from mundane chores (such as cleaning Elphaba’s birdcage or fetching her urine sample) to significant gestures Liza has made for Diana (like supporting her on the red carpet or encouraging her to pursue Enzo). It appears that Liza initially lied to get a job with Diana, but their relationship evolved into something much deeper – a friendship they both cherish. We’ll have to wait and see how their dynamic shifts after the revelation, but it seems like their bond has only grown stronger. I’m off to shed some tears in a quiet bathroom corner, as female friendships are truly heartwarming, and Diana Trout held back so many emotional moments. Until next time!
THE ENTIRE WORLD (YES, ALL OF IT)
When do they find out? “The Debu-taunt” (Season 6, Episode 8)
So, how did everyone find out? After Pauline caused quite a stir at the PW event, The New Yorker published an article detailing the entire ordeal at Millennial, including Liza’s deception. News of it spread like wildfire!
How do they react to the news? Ah, it seems people can’t resist a good gossip storm, keeping the intrigue of The Summer of Deception alive and kicking!
As a film enthusiast, I can’t help but wonder, “What will the aftermath bring?” This PR fiasco is undoubtedly a storm that Millennial will have to weather, and I, for one, am intrigued to see how they navigate through it. Exciting times ahead!
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2025-01-15 01:55