Baz Blackwell, a central figure in the TNT drama Animal Kingdom, meets his tragic end in the Season 3 premiere, episode 1, titled “The Killing.” This episode marks a pivotal moment for the Cody family, triggering a ripple effect of betrayal, suspicion, and escalating conflict. His death, orchestrated rather than a spontaneous event, sets the stage for the turbulent power struggles that define the season.
The Demise of Barry “Baz” Blackwell: A Deep Dive
Baz’s death isn’t just another casualty of the criminal underworld the Codys inhabit; it’s a calculated act, fueled by resentment and a thirst for control. While the immediate cause appears straightforward – being shot in his truck – the motivations behind it and the circumstances surrounding it are far more intricate.
Baz, portrayed by Scott Speedman, had evolved from Smurf’s adopted son and de facto right-hand man to a rival seeking to establish his own empire. His ambitions, coupled with his intimate knowledge of the family’s operations, made him a significant threat. This threat culminated in the robbery that targeted Smurf’s illegal activities, a betrayal that ultimately sealed his fate.
The Setup: From Mexico to the Fatal Drive
The episode opens with Baz returning from Mexico, presumably after laundering money or engaging in some illicit activity. The atmosphere is tense. He’s aware of the simmering resentment towards him, particularly from Smurf and Pope. His drive home is laden with suspicion. He anticipates danger, yet seems unable to escape the inevitable.
The fatal ambush is swift and brutal. As Baz pulls up to his house, a car pulls alongside him, and a barrage of bullets ends his life. The execution-style killing emphasizes the cold calculation behind his murder, leaving little room for doubt that it was a deliberate hit.
The Aftermath: A Family Divided
Baz’s death plunges the Cody family into further turmoil. Smurf, despite being the likely mastermind behind his assassination, feigns grief. The brothers – Pope, Craig, Deran, and J – grapple with their individual reactions to Baz’s death, leading to increased tension and distrust within the family. J, in particular, is significantly affected, as Baz had been a mentor figure, albeit a flawed one.
His death also leaves a void in the criminal operations of the family. Baz was often the strategic mind behind their heists and schemes. His absence forces the remaining Codys to adapt and re-evaluate their roles within the organization. The power vacuum created by his demise becomes a central driving force for the subsequent seasons.
FAQs About Baz Blackwell’s Death in Animal Kingdom
This section answers some of the most frequently asked questions about Baz’s death, providing a more complete understanding of its significance and impact.
1. Who Ordered the Hit on Baz?
The most prominent suspect is Smurf (Janine Cody). While never explicitly confirmed on screen, the overwhelming evidence points to her orchestration. Her motive was clear: Baz had betrayed her by robbing her, and she viewed him as a threat to her control over the family and their criminal enterprise.
2. What Was Baz Doing in Mexico?
While the specifics aren’t explicitly detailed, it’s implied that Baz was in Mexico dealing with laundering money or managing other aspects of their criminal activities. The Codys often used Mexico as a safe haven and a location to conduct business away from the scrutiny of US law enforcement.
3. How Did Baz Betray Smurf?
Baz was the mastermind behind the robbery of Smurf’s safe deposit boxes. He meticulously planned and executed the heist, believing he was securing his own future and freeing himself from Smurf’s control. This betrayal was a direct challenge to her authority and a significant financial blow.
4. Did Baz See His Death Coming?
Yes, to some extent. Baz was aware of the growing animosity and suspicion surrounding him. His actions in the days leading up to his death, such as securing his daughter Lena’s future, suggest he anticipated the possibility of being targeted.
5. How Did Baz’s Death Affect J?
Baz’s death had a profound impact on J. Baz had taken J under his wing, offering him guidance and mentorship (albeit in the context of criminal activity). His death left J feeling vulnerable and exposed, forcing him to navigate the dangerous world of the Cody family without a trusted ally.
6. What Was Baz’s Relationship With Lena?
Baz was a loving but flawed father to Lena. He genuinely cared for her well-being and wanted to provide a better life for her, away from the criminal lifestyle of the Codys. This paternal instinct often clashed with his involvement in illegal activities.
7. Why Didn’t Baz Fight Back Against His Attackers?
The ambush was designed to be swift and overwhelming. Baz likely didn’t have enough time to react or defend himself. The attackers were prepared and strategically positioned, ensuring he had little chance of survival.
8. Did the Cody Family Ever Find Out Who Killed Baz?
While suspicion overwhelmingly points to Smurf, the family never officially confirms her involvement. They operate in a world of secrets and unspoken truths, and directly confronting Smurf would have had significant consequences.
9. How Did Craig React to Baz’s Death?
Craig reacted with a mixture of grief and anger. He had a complex relationship with Baz, viewing him as a brother but also recognizing his flaws. Craig’s impulsiveness and recklessness were exacerbated by Baz’s death.
10. Did Deran Suspect Smurf’s Involvement?
Deran, while often detached, is highly perceptive. It’s highly likely that he suspected Smurf’s involvement but chose to remain silent, understanding the power dynamics within the family. He prioritized his own safety and ambitions.
11. How Did Baz’s Death Change the Dynamics of the Cody Family’s Heists?
Baz served as a strategic planner, with a grasp of logistics, and planning. His absence meant the other Cody’s needed to adapt to their plans, with various struggles along the way.
12. Does Animal Kingdom Ever Show Flashbacks of Baz?
Yes, Baz appears in flashbacks throughout the series, providing glimpses into his past and shedding light on his relationship with Smurf and the other Codys. These flashbacks help viewers understand the motivations and complexities of his character.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Baz’s Demise
The death of Baz Blackwell is a watershed moment in Animal Kingdom. It exposes the ruthlessness and betrayal that lie at the heart of the Cody family, creating a power vacuum that intensifies the already volatile dynamics within the group. While Baz is gone, the consequences of his actions and the circumstances surrounding his death continue to shape the narrative, solidifying his lasting legacy within the chaotic world of the Codys.