Detective Inspector Fred Thursday suffers a near-fatal gunshot wound in the final episode of Endeavour, Season 6, titled “Degüello.” This pivotal event leaves audiences in suspense and drastically impacts the series’ trajectory.
The Shooting and its Immediate Aftermath
The climax of “Degüello” sees Thursday caught in the crossfire of a gang war at Blenheim Vale, the infamous former Borstal. He is shot in the chest while attempting to protect Jim Strange and Morse, both of whom are also present at the scene. The episode ends with Thursday lying prone on the ground, his fate uncertain, leaving viewers to anxiously await the next season. The ambiguity surrounding his survival served as a cliffhanger, fueling considerable speculation and anticipation among fans.
The Location: Blenheim Vale’s Role
Blenheim Vale, a recurring location linked to past corruption and abuse, serves as the perfect backdrop for this tragic event. Its history of darkness and cover-ups amplifies the sense of danger and desperation during the shootout. The location itself carries significant narrative weight, reminding viewers of the deep-seated corruption that Thursday and Morse have been fighting against.
Morse’s Reaction and its Significance
Morse’s desperate attempts to aid Thursday after the shooting underscore their deep bond and the profound respect he holds for his mentor. His anguish is palpable, adding another layer of emotional weight to the scene. This moment emphasizes the evolving relationship between Morse and Thursday, moving beyond a simple mentorship into a profound friendship.
The Impact on Season 7 and Beyond
While Thursday survives his injuries, the experience deeply affects him. Season 7 explores the lasting physical and emotional scars he carries. The trauma impacts his judgment, his relationship with Morse, and his overall approach to policing. This incident acts as a catalyst for character development, making Thursday more vulnerable and relatable.
Physical and Emotional Scars
The gunshot wound leaves Thursday with lingering physical pain, often requiring him to rely on medication. He also struggles with the psychological impact of nearly losing his life, experiencing flashbacks and moments of anxiety.
Shifting Dynamics with Morse
The shooting strains the relationship between Morse and Thursday. Thursday, feeling his mortality, becomes more protective of Morse, while Morse, witnessing Thursday’s vulnerability, becomes more determined to prove himself and alleviate Thursday’s burden. This shift in dynamics adds complexity to their partnership and shapes the subsequent seasons.
FAQs: Unpacking the Thursday Shooting
Here are frequently asked questions about Thursday’s shooting, providing further context and insights into this crucial event.
1. Was Fred Thursday Originally Supposed to Die?
Rumors circulated that Thursday’s death was considered during the planning stages of the series. However, creator Russell Lewis ultimately decided against it, recognizing the vital role Thursday plays in Morse’s development and the overall narrative arc. Killing Thursday would have drastically altered the show’s dynamic and potentially alienated viewers.
2. What Kind of Gun Was Used to Shoot Thursday?
The specific type of firearm used is not explicitly stated in the episode. However, based on the period and the context of the gang war, it’s likely a handgun, potentially a Webley or similar model common at the time. The focus is less on the weapon itself and more on the act of violence and its consequences.
3. How Did Thursday Survive the Shooting?
While the episode doesn’t detail the exact medical intervention, it’s implied that he received prompt medical attention. The effectiveness of the surgery and his inherent resilience contribute to his survival. The narrative emphasizes the slim margin by which he lived, reinforcing the gravity of the situation.
4. Did the Shooting Affect Thursday’s Relationship with his Family?
Yes, the shooting significantly impacts his relationship with his family. His wife, Win, is deeply shaken by the near-death experience, and the incident puts a strain on their already existing financial worries. The event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of his profession and the potential consequences for his loved ones.
5. How Does the Shooting Change Thursday’s Approach to Policing?
After the shooting, Thursday becomes more cautious and protective, particularly towards Morse. He’s more willing to bend the rules to ensure the safety of his team and is haunted by the possibility of losing another colleague. This makes him more vulnerable but also more relatable.
6. Did Morse Blame Himself for Thursday Getting Shot?
While Morse doesn’t explicitly blame himself, he feels a profound sense of responsibility. He recognizes that his pursuit of justice often puts Thursday in danger, and he grapples with the guilt of potentially causing his mentor’s death. This guilt motivates him to become a more capable and independent detective.
7. Is Blenheim Vale a Real Place?
No, Blenheim Vale is a fictional location, although it’s heavily inspired by real-life institutions and scandals involving abuse and corruption that occurred in Britain during the 1960s. Its purpose is to represent the systemic problems that Morse and Thursday are fighting against.
8. How Many Seasons of Endeavour Are There?
There are nine seasons of Endeavour, making it the longest-running of the Morse series. This allows for extensive character development and exploration of the themes established in the original novels.
9. Does Thursday Ever Fully Recover from the Trauma?
While Thursday physically recovers, the emotional scars linger throughout the remaining seasons. He experiences moments of vulnerability and doubt, and the shooting serves as a constant reminder of his mortality. The trauma shapes his decisions and influences his interactions with others.
10. What is the Significance of the Episode Title, “Degüello”?
“Degüello” is a Spanish word meaning “throat-cutting” or “no quarter given.” It refers to a battle cry, signifying a fight to the death with no surrender. This title foreshadows the violent confrontation at Blenheim Vale and the high stakes involved in the case.
11. How Does the Shooting Contribute to the Overall Arc of Endeavour?
The shooting is a pivotal moment in the series, marking a turning point in the relationship between Morse and Thursday and setting the stage for the later seasons. It underscores the dangers of their profession, highlights the pervasive corruption they face, and forces both characters to confront their own vulnerabilities. It significantly contributes to the series’ exploration of morality, justice, and the cost of pursuing truth.
12. What Happens to the Perpetrators Involved in the Shooting?
While the immediate shooters are dealt with within the episode, the larger network of corruption and the individuals ultimately responsible for the events at Blenheim Vale face varying degrees of justice throughout the subsequent seasons. The series explores the complexities of bringing powerful individuals to account and the long-lasting consequences of their actions. Justice, in the world of Endeavour, is often a slow and incomplete process.