At first glance, Peacock’s new series The Copenhagen Test might appear to be a typical espionage thriller. However, as the storyline unfolds over its eight episodes, it delves into much deeper themes, evolving into a complex psychological experiment that probes into control, surveillance, and the nature of loyalty within a fabricated environment.

The narrative centers on Alexander Hale, portrayed by Simu Liu, a first-generation Chinese-American intelligence analyst whose mind has been compromised. This breach allows unknown entities to monitor his every move. Alexander works for The Orphanage, a covert internal watchdog tasked with overseeing U.S. intelligence agencies—a mission that takes a deeply ironic twist as he discovers the real danger lies within his own psyche.

For Liu, this role demanded more than just action sequences. Known for his role in Shang-Chi, Liu also serves as an executive producer on the series. He describes Alexander as needing to be both an actor and a strategist:

“He’s not just performing; he’s also directing, as he manipulates the narrative and controls the perspective,” Liu shared with Entertainment Weekly in November 2025.

All eight episodes of The Copenhagen Test are now available on Peacock, leaving some viewers pondering the implications and mysteries revealed in the finale.

SPOILER ALERT! Read on to find out what happens to Alexander and why.

What Happens to Alexander Hale?

The finale begins with Alexander apparently betraying The Orphanage to protect his parents from Schiff (Adam Godley). He agrees to lead Schiff to St. George (Kathleen Chalfant), but it’s a staged deception. He guides Schiff to a decoy, leaving Schiff vulnerable — and Alexander’s fate uncertain.

Parker (Sinclair Daniel) is the first inside The Orphanage to grasp what Alexander is doing. He deliberately signals his loyalty by speaking of betrayal in his bugged apartment and using Haka, a language he only shares with family when serious.

Complicating matters, Michelle (Melissa Barrera), initially believed to be a random romantic interest, was planted as part of a long-term loyalty test tied to a past Belarus mission. Alexander’s life — personal and professional — has been under surveillance the entire time.

Who Really Hacked Alexander?

The twist: Schiff wasn’t behind Alexander’s hacking. Victor (Saul Rubinek), his mentor and friend, orchestrated the experiment, with Rachel (Hannah Cruz) administering anti-anxiety pills that allowed nanites to invade his system.

Victor explains the Copenhagen Test wasn’t personal but necessary, designed to measure whether someone could remain functional, loyal, and self-aware inside a fabricated reality. Alexander was simply the first successful subject, part of a broader operation monitoring multiple hacked individuals.

Is Alexander Free?

Not entirely. After The Orphanage confirms he never flipped, Alexander suffers a seizure. When he wakes, John (Brian d’Arcy James) reveals a neural “governor” was implanted, giving him control over when his senses are broadcast. He’s no longer a passive surveillance feed — but he’s not fully free.

John leaves the choice to Alexander: continue working with the agency or walk away. The series closes with his future uncertain, raising the ultimate question: after living under constant observation, can Alexander ever trust the system — or himself?