Is Cooper Dead in ‘Interstellar’? The Movie’s Ending Explained

‘Interstellar’ is a film that consistently ignites thoughtful discussions. Whether or not you enjoyed the movie, there’s so much to unpack—the science, the visuals, the themes, and the characters. A new theory has emerged, suggesting that Cooper (played by Matthew McConaughey) might have been dead throughout the film. 

This idea challenges the perception that Christopher Nolan’s films are straightforward, even though they are usually rich in detail and clear in their messaging. However, ‘Interstellar’ might intentionally leave some aspects open to interpretation, allowing for a possible supernatural twist in Cooper’s story.

Image Courtesy: Edgroom

In July, a TikToker named StarkVerse proposed a theory that the same shot of Cooper’s Ranger ship appears in both the opening dream sequence and later when the team enters Miller’s planet’s atmosphere. 

He suggests that Cooper may have died during the incident depicted in the dream, and everything that follows is his mind’s way of coming to terms with his death. The repeated imagery could be a subtle nod to this theory, where Cooper’s experiences—like surviving impossible situations—reflect his subconscious grappling with his death.

Image Courtesy: People

The theory posits that Cooper’s death occurs during a test flight, leading to everything afterward being a projection of his mind. The movie’s use of repetition, such as Cooper being the “ghost” in Murphy’s room, might suggest a deeper connection between life and death. The mission’s name, Lazarus, references resurrection, further hinting at a metaphorical journey between life and death. Ultimately, while the theory is open to debate, it adds a new layer of emotional depth to ‘Interstellar,’ transforming it into a reflection on love, loss, and the passage between life and death.

–Farheen Ali