Bellamy Blake dies in Season 7, Episode 13, titled “Blood Giant.” This event sent shockwaves through The 100 fanbase, sparking intense debate and criticism about the character’s trajectory and ultimate fate. Let’s delve into the details surrounding his death, the events leading up to it, and the enduring impact it had on the show and its viewers.
The Fateful Episode: “Blood Giant”
The episode “Blood Giant” is undeniably the most controversial episode in The 100’s entire run. Airing late in the final season, it centered around Clarke Griffin’s desperate attempt to prevent Bellamy from sharing information that could jeopardize her adopted daughter, Madi. This information was contained in a sketchbook held by Bellamy, details Madi had meticulously drawn, providing access to the memories of all the Commanders, crucial for the disciples of Bill Cadogan to finally crack the code to the final war and transcendence.
Bellamy, after spending considerable time with the disciples of Cadogan, had become convinced of their righteousness and the importance of the test. He was determined to hand over the sketchbook, believing it was the key to humanity’s survival.
The Confrontation and its Aftermath
The climax of “Blood Giant” sees Clarke confront Bellamy, pleading with him not to reveal Madi’s secrets. Bellamy, now unwavering in his faith, refuses to yield. In a moment of desperation, Clarke shoots and kills him to protect Madi.
This decision, fueled by Clarke’s fierce maternal instincts and her history of making difficult choices, reverberated throughout the rest of the season and continues to be a point of contention among fans. His death was perceived by many as unnecessary and out of character for both Bellamy and Clarke. Many believed there were other options, besides killing him. His death had an impact on the remaining characters too, and how they dealt with the loss.
Analyzing the Fan Reaction
The fan reaction to Bellamy’s death was overwhelmingly negative. Many viewers felt that the character had been sidelined throughout Season 7, only to be killed off in a manner that disregarded his journey and contributions to the group. His transformation into a believer in Cadogan’s cause was viewed as abrupt and unearned, and his death was seen as a betrayal of his long-standing relationships with Clarke and the other characters. It also felt as if actor Bob Morley had a limited role in the final season, with many suggesting that this had something to do with the story arc written for his character and his eventual death.
Dissatisfaction with the Writing
A common criticism was the perceived lack of meaningful dialogue or resolution surrounding Bellamy’s death. The grieving process felt rushed and superficial, and many viewers felt that the impact of his loss was not adequately explored. The rushed story arc and the abrupt death felt as if the writers did not give the fans enough time to process this major character’s fate.
The Role of Behind-the-Scenes Dynamics
While speculation abounds, some believe that behind-the-scenes factors, such as actor availability or creative differences, may have influenced the decision to kill off Bellamy. However, these remain unconfirmed, and the official explanation remains rooted in the narrative choices made by the showrunners.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Bellamy Blake’s Death
Here are some frequently asked questions surrounding Bellamy Blake’s death in The 100:
Why did Bellamy die in The 100?
Bellamy died because he was going to hand over a sketchbook containing information about Madi’s access to the Commanders’ memories to Bill Cadogan, believing it was crucial for humanity’s survival. Clarke killed him to prevent this information from falling into Cadogan’s hands, protecting Madi from the potential consequences.
Was Bellamy’s death necessary for the plot?
That’s highly debatable. Many fans believe Bellamy’s death was unnecessary and contrived, arguing that there were alternative ways to resolve the conflict without resorting to killing off a major character. The writers defended their choice, stating it was a difficult but necessary step in Clarke’s journey and highlighted the themes of sacrifice and tough choices.
How did Clarke react to killing Bellamy?
Clarke was devastated by her actions. She was visibly distraught immediately after shooting him and struggled to cope with the guilt and grief throughout the remaining episodes. The decision to kill Bellamy deeply impacted her and the other characters.
What was Bob Morley’s reaction to Bellamy’s death?
Bob Morley released a statement acknowledging the mixed reactions and thanking fans for their support throughout the years. While he did not explicitly state his personal opinion on the storyline, his words conveyed a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to portray Bellamy Blake.
Did Bellamy’s death affect the ending of The 100?
Yes, Bellamy’s death profoundly affected the ending. It influenced Clarke’s decisions and actions, and the loss of his character created a void within the group that was never truly filled. Some argue that his absence detracted from the overall impact of the finale.
Did the writers plan for Bellamy to die from the beginning of Season 7?
It’s unclear when the decision was made, but the abruptness of his storyline suggests that it may have been a later development rather than a long-term plan. The writers have stated that they explored various options for his character arc.
What other options could the writers have considered instead of killing Bellamy?
Many fans suggested alternative solutions, such as finding a way to reason with Bellamy, incapacitating him without killing him, or using his knowledge to sabotage Cadogan’s plans from within. These options were often considered more in line with the characters’ established values and relationships.
How did other characters react to Bellamy’s death in the show?
Octavia was particularly devastated, having finally reconciled with her brother after years of estrangement. Echo, who had developed a romantic relationship with Bellamy, was also deeply affected, and her grief manifested in anger and a desire for revenge.
Was Bellamy’s death controversial among the cast and crew?
While there’s no public confirmation of significant disagreements, the intense fan reaction and the divisive nature of the storyline suggest that there may have been varying opinions within the cast and crew about the decision to kill off Bellamy.
Did Bellamy’s death impact the show’s ratings?
While it’s difficult to isolate the exact impact of Bellamy’s death on the show’s ratings, it’s likely that the controversy surrounding the storyline contributed to a decline in viewership during the final episodes. Many fans vowed to boycott the show after his death.
What lessons can be learned from the controversy surrounding Bellamy’s death?
The controversy highlights the importance of respecting established character arcs, considering the impact of major character deaths on the audience, and engaging with fan feedback in a constructive way. It also demonstrates the power of fan communities and their ability to influence the narrative surrounding a show.
Is there any chance Bellamy could return in a spinoff or sequel?
Given that the ending of The 100 heavily implied a cease to procreation and therefore an end to the human race, it’s unlikely Bellamy could return. Never say never, however, but given the controversial nature of his death and the fan backlash, it’s improbable.
Conclusion: An Unforgettable Loss
Bellamy Blake’s death in “Blood Giant” remains a significant and controversial moment in The 100’s history. While the writers may have had their reasons for making this drastic decision, the fan reaction clearly indicates that it was a misstep that tarnished the show’s legacy for many viewers. The debate surrounding his death continues to this day, underscoring the enduring impact of this unforgettable loss. His death is an example of a show writing a once adored character out in the worst way possible, and as such, it is not something many of the show’s fans will ever forget, or forgive.