Sergeant Drew Wu, a cornerstone of the Portland Police Bureau and a vital ally to Nick Burkhardt, finally learns about the existence of Grimms and the Wesen world in Season 4, Episode 14, “Bad Luck.” This revelation marks a significant turning point in Wu’s character arc, transitioning him from a skeptical observer to an informed participant in the supernatural drama that engulfs his friends and colleagues.
Wu’s Journey from Skeptic to Believer
For seasons, Wu was a repository of bizarre case details, often delivering them with a dry wit that hinted at his own disbelief. He encountered strange occurrences alongside Nick and Hank, contributing crucial information while remaining blissfully (or perhaps deliberately) unaware of the underlying truth. This plausible deniability, however, couldn’t last forever.
The Cracks Begin to Show
The seeds of Wu’s awakening were subtly planted throughout the series. He endured a string of increasingly peculiar cases, each chipping away at his rational explanations. The sheer volume and nature of these incidents, coupled with the increasingly evasive behavior of Nick and Hank, began to raise serious suspicions. The audience saw the gears turning, anticipating the inevitable moment when Wu would demand answers.
The Rabbit’s Foot and the Breaking Point
“Bad Luck” serves as the catalyst. A series of interconnected events involving a Wesen criminal family, a cursed rabbit’s foot, and Nick’s increasingly obvious discomfort culminate in Wu witnessing Nick Grimm out in front of him. This act of blatant transformation shatters Wu’s reality, forcing him to confront the impossible. This scene isn’t subtle; it’s a direct, undeniable unveiling of the Wesen world.
The Aftermath: A Changed Wu
The revelation is not immediately met with acceptance or understanding. Wu is understandably shaken, even traumatized. He exhibits signs of paranoia and struggles to reconcile what he has witnessed with his understanding of the world. However, his loyalty to Nick and Hank, coupled with his inherent curiosity and dedication to justice, ultimately compels him to seek answers and embrace his newfound knowledge.
From Patient to Player
Wu’s transformation from a detached observer to an active participant is gradual but profound. He begins to research Wesen, seeking to understand the creatures and their abilities. He starts assisting Nick and Hank in their investigations, providing valuable insights based on his police work and his growing knowledge of the Wesen world. His integration into the Grimm team is seamless and enriching, adding a new dimension to their dynamic.
The Burden of Knowledge
While Wu’s inclusion strengthens the team, it also places a considerable burden on him. He must navigate the complex ethical dilemmas of the Wesen world, balancing his duty as a police officer with his allegiance to Nick and his commitment to protecting innocent Wesen. This internal conflict adds depth to Wu’s character, making him a more relatable and compelling figure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Wu’s Grimm Awareness
Here are some frequently asked questions that address common inquiries regarding Wu’s journey to discovering Nick’s secret:
Q1: Was Wu suspicious of Nick and Hank before “Bad Luck?”
Yes, Wu exhibited growing suspicion. He frequently commented on the oddity of their cases and the secrecy surrounding their investigations. He noticed the inconsistencies in their explanations and the peculiar knowledge they possessed.
Q2: What specific events in “Bad Luck” led to Wu’s discovery?
The combination of the bizarre rabbit’s foot curse affecting him personally, coupled with seeing Nick and Hank acting strangely around the Wesen involved, created a perfect storm. The final straw was witnessing Nick morph into his Grimm form to defend himself and Hank.
Q3: How did Wu react immediately after seeing Nick Grimm out?
He was visibly shocked and disoriented. He couldn’t process what he had seen and struggled to maintain his composure. He questioned his sanity and initially tried to rationalize it as a hallucination.
Q4: Did Wu tell anyone else about what he saw?
Initially, he kept it to himself, wrestling with his newfound knowledge and trying to make sense of it. He later confided in Nick and Hank, demanding an explanation.
Q5: How did Nick and Hank explain the Grimm world to Wu?
They provided a detailed explanation of Grimms, Wesen, and their role in maintaining balance. They acknowledged their secrecy and apologized for keeping him in the dark. They also asked for his trust and help.
Q6: How did Wu’s knowledge of the Grimm world affect his job as a police officer?
It significantly altered his perspective. He gained a deeper understanding of certain crimes and was able to provide valuable insights that would have been impossible before. He also had to navigate the ethical complexities of Wesen crime and the potential for Wesen prejudice.
Q7: Did Wu ever regret finding out about the Wesen world?
There were moments of doubt and fear, particularly when facing dangerous Wesen or dealing with the consequences of his knowledge. However, he ultimately embraced his role in protecting Portland and valued his friendship with Nick and Hank.
Q8: What unique skills or perspectives did Wu bring to the Grimm team after learning the truth?
Wu’s knowledge of police procedure, criminal psychology, and local connections proved invaluable. He was able to analyze crime scenes with a new perspective, identify potential Wesen motives, and navigate the legal complexities of dealing with Wesen crime.
Q9: How did Wu’s character change throughout the series after becoming aware of the Grimm world?
He became more confident, assertive, and proactive. He evolved from a skeptical observer to a courageous participant in the fight against Wesen crime. He also developed a deeper sense of empathy and understanding for the Wesen community.
Q10: What was the relationship between Wu and Monroe after Wu learned about the Wesen world?
Wu and Monroe developed a strong friendship based on mutual respect and shared experiences. Wu appreciated Monroe’s knowledge of Wesen culture and relied on him for information and guidance. Monroe, in turn, valued Wu’s police experience and his willingness to learn.
Q11: Was there a specific case where Wu’s knowledge of the Wesen world was particularly crucial?
Many cases benefited from Wu’s knowledge, but one notable example is when he helped identify a previously unknown Wesen species based on his observation of their unique behavior patterns. His ability to connect seemingly unrelated details proved critical in solving the case.
Q12: How did the other characters in the show react to Wu joining the Grimm team?
Rosalee and Monroe were welcoming and supportive, recognizing the value of having Wu on their side. Juliette, before her transformation, was initially hesitant but eventually came to trust and rely on Wu. Captain Renard, with his own complex agenda, maintained a cautious but respectful relationship with Wu, recognizing his loyalty and competence.
Conclusion
The episode “Bad Luck” fundamentally reshapes the Grimm narrative. Sergeant Wu’s acceptance into the fold not only enriches the storytelling but also highlights the themes of trust, loyalty, and the burden of knowledge. Wu’s journey from skepticism to acceptance is a testament to his character’s strength and adaptability, making him an integral and beloved member of the Grimm universe.