Finn Collins, a beloved character known for his optimistic spirit and unwavering loyalty, met his tragic end in The 100 Season 2. He sacrificed himself to prevent further bloodshed, a decision that continues to resonate with fans and underscores the show’s complex moral landscape.
The Episode Where Finn Died: A Definitive Answer
Finn Collins dies in Season 2, Episode 9, titled “Remember Me.” This episode marks a pivotal moment in the series, showcasing the devastating consequences of war and the difficult choices characters are forced to make in a brutal, unforgiving world. Clarke Griffin, bearing the immense weight of leadership and love for Finn, ultimately ends his life to spare him a gruesome death at the hands of the Grounders.
The Circumstances Leading to Finn’s Death
Finn’s death wasn’t a random act of violence but the culmination of a series of escalating events. Driven by a desperate search for Clarke and fueled by misinformation, he mistakenly massacred a Grounder village, believing she was held captive there. This act sparked outrage and demands for retribution from Lexa, the Commander of the Grounders. Lexa demanded Finn’s life in exchange for peace.
The episode “Remember Me” focuses heavily on the agonizing dilemma faced by the Sky People (the 100 and their subsequent arrivals): deliver Finn to the Grounders and potentially secure an alliance, or protect him and risk war. Clarke, torn between her love for Finn and her responsibility to her people, wrestled with an impossible decision.
Ultimately, Clarke chose to take Finn’s life herself, ending his suffering and preventing a protracted torture session at the hands of the Grounders. This act, though controversial, was viewed by many as a mercy killing and a strategic move to maintain peace.
The Aftermath of Finn’s Death
Finn’s death had profound consequences for the remaining characters. Clarke was forever haunted by her decision, grappling with guilt and the knowledge that she had taken the life of someone she loved. The act also solidified her role as a leader willing to make the hardest choices for the survival of her people.
The event also significantly impacted the relationship between the Sky People and the Grounders. While Finn’s sacrifice did initially prevent war, the underlying tensions remained, and the alliance was fragile. Lexa, though honoring her agreement, understood the weight of Clarke’s action, further solidifying their complex and ultimately doomed bond.
Frequently Asked Questions About Finn’s Death
H3: Why did Finn kill the Grounders?
Finn killed the Grounders because he mistakenly believed Clarke was being held captive in their village. He was operating under the influence of misinformation and his desperate desire to find her overrode his judgment. He was fueled by panic and believed he was rescuing the woman he loved. The massacre was a tragic mistake, born out of love and fear.
H3: Could Finn have been saved?
The possibility of saving Finn was minimal, considering the circumstances. Lexa’s demand for his execution was a non-negotiable condition for peace. The Sky People lacked the resources and manpower to successfully wage war against the Grounders at that time. While there was a brief attempt to offer an alternative punishment, Lexa remained steadfast in her demand.
H3: How did Clarke feel about killing Finn?
Clarke was devastated by having to kill Finn. The decision haunted her throughout the series. She loved him deeply and considered him one of her closest friends and allies. Killing him was an act of mercy and a strategic move to protect her people, but it left a lasting scar on her conscience. She carried the weight of his death with her, shaping her future decisions and actions.
H3: What impact did Finn’s death have on Clarke and Lexa’s relationship?
Finn’s death significantly impacted Clarke and Lexa’s relationship. While Lexa honored the agreement and prevented a war, she also recognized the immense burden Clarke carried as a result of her actions. This shared experience created a bond between them, albeit a complex and often strained one, based on respect and a shared understanding of the sacrifices required for leadership.
H3: Did Finn’s death achieve anything positive?
Despite the tragic nature of his death, Finn’s sacrifice did achieve a temporary peace between the Sky People and the Grounders. It prevented an immediate war, allowing the Sky People to regroup and strategize. It also showcased Clarke’s willingness to make difficult choices for the sake of her people, solidifying her leadership. However, the peace was ultimately short-lived, highlighting the cyclical nature of violence in the series.
H3: What were the fan reactions to Finn’s death?
Fan reactions to Finn’s death were mixed and often emotionally charged. Some viewers felt that his death was unnecessary and a betrayal of his character’s inherent goodness. Others saw it as a realistic and impactful plot point that underscored the brutal realities of the show’s world. His death remains one of the most debated moments in The 100 fandom.
H3: Was Finn a good character?
Whether Finn was a “good” character is subjective and depends on individual interpretation. He was initially portrayed as optimistic and compassionate, but his actions leading up to his death demonstrated a capacity for violence and flawed judgment. His character arc highlights the complexities of human nature and the impact of trauma on behavior. He was a complex and flawed individual, adding depth to the overall narrative.
H3: How does Raven react to Finn’s death?
Raven Reyes, Finn’s former girlfriend, is understandably devastated by his death. Her grief is profound and shapes her character arc for several seasons. She struggles to come to terms with his actions and the circumstances surrounding his death. Raven’s reaction highlights the emotional toll of war and the lasting impact of loss.
H3: What season and episode does Clarke kill Finn?
Clarke kills Finn in Season 2, Episode 9, “Remember Me.” This is the definitive moment where Finn Collins’ life comes to an end at the hands of Clarke, motivated by both love and a desperate attempt to secure peace.
H3: How did Finn change from Season 1 to Season 2?
Finn underwent a significant transformation between Season 1 and Season 2. In Season 1, he was portrayed as a relatively optimistic and idealistic character. However, the trauma of surviving on Earth and the desperate search for Clarke in Season 2 led him to make increasingly questionable decisions, culminating in the massacre. This descent highlights the corrupting influence of war and the toll it takes on individuals.
H3: Was Finn supposed to die in The 100?
While it’s impossible to know the original plans for Finn’s character, the decision to kill him off was a creative choice made by the writers. The death served several narrative purposes, including raising the stakes of the series, exploring the moral complexities of war, and furthering the character development of Clarke and other key figures.
H3: Does Finn appear in any flashbacks after his death?
Finn does appear in flashbacks in later seasons, allowing viewers glimpses of his past and providing context for the characters’ memories of him. These flashbacks serve to remind the audience of Finn’s impact on the story and the lasting legacy of his actions. They also provide further insight into his relationships with other characters, particularly Clarke and Raven. These appearances, while brief, serve to keep Finn’s memory alive within the narrative.