Patrick Jane’s relentless pursuit of the serial killer Red John culminates in the episode “Red John’s Rules,” the sixth episode of the sixth season of The Mentalist. In this pivotal episode, Jane finally unveils Red John’s true identity and confronts him in a dramatic and unforgettable showdown.
The Showdown: “Red John’s Rules” Explained
The episode title itself provides a clue. Throughout the series, Red John has left clues and riddles, often referred to as his “rules.” “Red John’s Rules” sees Jane putting these rules to the test, orchestrating events to force Red John out of hiding and reveal himself. The culmination is a chaotic chase and a final, desperate confrontation that definitively ends Red John’s reign of terror.
The episode builds suspense masterfully, hinting at multiple potential suspects. The tension is palpable as Jane narrows down his list, playing a dangerous game to expose the killer. It’s a masterclass in suspense, keeping viewers guessing until the very last moment.
Identifying Red John: A Long and Winding Road
Patrick Jane’s obsession with Red John stemmed from the murder of his wife and daughter. He dedicated his life to tracking down the killer, using his skills of observation and mentalism to assist the CBI (California Bureau of Investigation) while secretly gathering information about Red John. For years, Jane meticulously pieced together clues, followed leads, and manipulated suspects, all in pursuit of one goal: revenge. The journey was fraught with danger, deception, and heartbreaking setbacks, but Jane never wavered.
The Unmasking: A Moment of Truth
The revelation of Red John’s identity is one of the most shocking moments in television history. After a carefully planned ruse, Patrick Jane corners his nemesis. The final confrontation is brutal and personal, a battle of wits and wills between two masterminds. The episode’s resolution is decisive, leaving no doubt about the outcome. The viewer is left with a feeling of catharsis as Patrick Jane finally achieves his long-sought goal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Red John and “Red John’s Rules”
Here are some frequently asked questions designed to provide a deeper understanding of the Red John storyline and the episode “Red John’s Rules”:
1. Who is Red John?
Red John is the primary antagonist of The Mentalist. He is a serial killer known for his distinctive smiley face signature left at the scenes of his crimes, drawn with the blood of his victims. He is portrayed as highly intelligent, manipulative, and charismatic, making him a formidable opponent for Patrick Jane. His true identity is revealed to be Sheriff Thomas McAllister.
2. Why did Red John kill Patrick Jane’s family?
Red John killed Patrick Jane’s wife and daughter in retaliation for Jane boasting about his supposed psychic abilities on television, specifically claiming to have helped the police profile Red John. Jane’s arrogant claims angered Red John, prompting him to commit the murders as a personal attack.
3. Were there any clues throughout the series that pointed to Thomas McAllister as Red John?
Yes, there were subtle clues scattered throughout the series that hinted at McAllister’s involvement. These included his presence at certain crime scenes, his knowledge of specific details about the murders, and his connections to other Red John accomplices. However, these clues were often deliberately misleading, designed to keep viewers guessing and throw Jane off the trail.
4. Did Patrick Jane suspect Thomas McAllister all along?
While Jane likely considered McAllister a potential suspect early on, he was also evaluating several other individuals who were on his “Red John list.” The genius of Red John was his ability to blend in and manipulate perceptions, making it difficult for Jane to pinpoint him definitively until the very end. Jane constructed his plan to force Red John to reveal himself because he couldn’t be 100% certain prior to that moment.
5. What were the other names on Patrick Jane’s Red John list?
Besides Thomas McAllister, Patrick Jane’s list of Red John suspects included:
- Bret Stiles: The leader of Visualize Self-Realization Center.
- Gale Bertram: The director of the CBI.
- Raymond Haffner: A former CBI agent and private consultant.
- Reede Smith: An FBI agent.
- Bob Kirkland: Head of a shadowy government organization.
6. How did Patrick Jane lure Red John out in “Red John’s Rules”?
Jane devised a plan to manipulate Red John’s obsession with controlling information and predicting Jane’s actions. He publicly announced a list of seven Red John suspects and then created a situation where they were all gathered in specific locations. This forced Red John to act, ultimately revealing himself in an attempt to control the narrative and eliminate the potential threat.
7. Why did Red John allow himself to be cornered by Patrick Jane?
Red John’s arrogance and belief in his own superior intellect contributed to his downfall. He likely believed that he could outsmart Jane and regain control of the situation, even in a seemingly hopeless scenario. His desire to prove his superiority and taunt Jane ultimately led to his capture and death.
8. What happened after Patrick Jane killed Red John?
Following Red John’s death, Patrick Jane essentially went off the grid. He spent time in South America, seeking refuge and trying to come to terms with the events that had unfolded. He eventually returned and rejoined the FBI, starting a new chapter in his life.
9. Did the actor who played Red John know he was the killer from the beginning?
No, the identity of Red John was kept secret from most of the cast for a significant portion of the series. This secrecy helped to maintain the suspense and prevent leaks that could spoil the surprise for viewers.
10. Is there any debate about whether McAllister was truly Red John?
While the show definitively presents McAllister as Red John, some viewers have debated whether the portrayal was entirely consistent with earlier characterizations of the killer. Some feel that other suspects might have been a more fitting choice, but the writers ultimately chose McAllister to provide a shocking and unexpected resolution to the Red John storyline.
11. How did the Red John storyline impact the overall tone of The Mentalist?
The Red John storyline infused The Mentalist with a dark and suspenseful element that distinguished it from other crime procedurals. It provided a compelling long-term arc that kept viewers engaged and invested in Patrick Jane’s journey. The resolution of the Red John storyline marked a significant shift in the show’s tone, allowing it to explore new themes and character dynamics.
12. What makes “Red John’s Rules” such a significant episode in The Mentalist series?
“Red John’s Rules” is arguably the most crucial episode of The Mentalist because it represents the culmination of Patrick Jane’s decade-long quest for revenge. It provides closure to the central conflict that drove the series and allows Jane to finally find peace, even if that peace is hard-earned. It’s a dramatic and satisfying resolution to a complex and compelling storyline. The episode marks a turning point for the show, signaling a new direction for the remaining seasons. The viewer is left not just satisfied but also reflecting on Jane’s evolution throughout the season.