login stuck after time machine backup

Hello jkwam,

It sounds as though you're Mac is booting up as expected but you're unable to log in to your user account successfully. To confirm, have you tried booting in to safe mode to see if you're able to log in? If not, follow the steps specific to your Mac model below to boot in to safe mode and see if you're able to log in successfully.

"Apple silicon

1. Shut down your Mac.
2. Turn on your Mac and continue to press and hold the power button until you see the startup options window.
3. Select your startup disk, then press and hold the Shift key while clicking “Continue in Safe Mode.”
4. Log in to your Mac. You might be asked to log in again."

"Intel processor

1. Turn on or restart your Mac, then immediately press and hold the Shift key as your Mac starts up.
2. Release the key when you see the login window, then log in to your Mac. 
3. You might be asked to log in again. On either the first or second login window, you should see ”Safe Boot” in the upper-right corner of the window."

After booting in to safe mode, see if you're able to log in successfully. If you are, restart the Mac to exit safe mode and try logging in again. While this is a simple step, this may help with resolving the issue. If you continue to have issues after those steps, continue through the remaining steps outlined in the following article based on if the issue did or did not continue in safe mode.

How to use safe mode on your Mac

Have a great day!

Thanks so much for the update!

We are glad to hear that the Reset Password Utility resolved your login issue.

Don't hesitate to respond back if you have any additional issues logging in.

Cheers!