Bellamy Blake dies in Season 7, Episode 13, titled “The Stranger.” His controversial death ignited a firestorm of fan reactions and sparked intense debate about the show’s narrative direction.
The Death Scene: A Brutal Conclusion
The death of Bellamy Blake sent shockwaves through The 100 fandom. After disappearing through the Anomaly in the latter half of Season 6, and re-emerging radically changed, his ultimate demise at the hands of Clarke Griffin was a gut-wrenching moment for many. The episode “The Stranger” chronicles his growing belief in Cadogan and the Last War, convinced that this was humanity’s only hope.
Bellamy had discovered a sketchbook containing drawings crucial to winning the war, information Clarke believed would lead to the destruction of humanity. Desperate to protect her “family,” especially Madi, Clarke confronted Bellamy, ultimately leading to his death when he refused to relinquish the sketchbook.
The scene itself is stark and emotionally charged. The rain-soaked forest, the desperation in Clarke’s eyes, and the heartbreaking finality of Bellamy’s end created a scene that is, to this day, highly discussed and dissected. The immediate aftermath saw Clarke grapple with the weight of her actions, while Bellamy’s sister, Octavia, and their friends processed the devastating loss.
Understanding the Context: Building Towards a Divisive Ending
Bellamy’s arc in Season 7 was undeniably controversial. His sudden shift in allegiance, driven by the Disciples and the allure of Transcendence, felt out of character to many viewers. This character shift significantly impacted the audience’s perception of his death, with some viewing it as a tragic consequence of his misguided faith and others perceiving it as a betrayal of his established values.
The writers faced immense pressure to deliver a satisfying conclusion to the series. Ultimately, they chose a path that prioritized Clarke’s perspective and her unwavering commitment to protecting those she loved. This choice, however, came at the cost of one of the show’s original and most beloved characters.
The ramifications of Bellamy’s death extended beyond the immediate emotional impact. It influenced the dynamics within the group, particularly between Clarke and Octavia, forcing them to navigate their grief and reconcile their conflicting loyalties. It also raised fundamental questions about the morality of survival and the sacrifices one is willing to make for the sake of humanity.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into Bellamy Blake’s Death and its Impact
Here are frequently asked questions about Bellamy Blake’s death, providing further insight into the circumstances, the reactions, and the lasting legacy of this pivotal moment in The 100.
H3 What were the main reasons for the intense fan backlash following Bellamy’s death?
The backlash stemmed from multiple factors: the perceived inconsistency of Bellamy’s character arc in Season 7, the abruptness and perceived lack of respect in his death scene, the belief that his death was unnecessary and served only to further Clarke’s storyline, and the feeling that his potential for redemption was cut short. Many felt his character deserved a more honorable ending.
H3 Why did Clarke kill Bellamy? Was there no other option?
Clarke justified her actions by claiming it was the only way to prevent Bellamy from handing over the sketchbook to Cadogan, believing it would lead to the destruction of humanity. The show presented it as a moral dilemma where Clarke felt she had to choose between saving her family (particularly Madi) and preventing the end of the world. Whether there were other options is a matter of debate, but Clarke’s perspective was framed as one of desperate necessity.
H3 How did the other characters react to Bellamy’s death?
Octavia was devastated, but ultimately came to understand Clarke’s perspective, recognizing that she acted out of love and protection. The rest of the group mourned his loss, grappling with the pain and the moral implications of Clarke’s actions. His death further complicated the already strained relationships within the group.
H3 Did the actor, Bob Morley, request to leave the show?
While the circumstances surrounding Bob Morley’s availability during Season 7 are complex, it is widely believed he requested a reduced role due to personal reasons. This limited availability likely influenced the writers’ decision to give Bellamy a smaller storyline and ultimately kill off the character. This information is a contributing factor to the fan discontent surrounding the character’s arc.
H3 Was Bellamy’s death planned from the beginning of the series?
No, Bellamy’s death was not part of the original plan. The show’s trajectory evolved over its seven seasons, and character arcs were adjusted based on various factors, including actor availability and narrative needs. The decision to kill Bellamy was a late-stage development that reflected the evolving themes and priorities of the series.
H3 Did Bellamy get a proper memorial service or tribute within the show?
Following his death, the show did not dedicate a specific episode or extended scene as a memorial or tribute to Bellamy. While his death was acknowledged and mourned by the characters, some viewers felt the absence of a more formal farewell was a disservice to his significant contribution to the series.
H3 What was the significance of Bellamy’s character to the overall narrative of The 100?
Bellamy was a central figure throughout The 100. He represented growth, leadership, and the complexities of moral decision-making in a post-apocalyptic world. He evolved from a reckless rebel to a capable leader who often prioritized the well-being of his people. His character arc highlighted the themes of survival, redemption, and the cost of war.
H3 How did Bellamy’s death impact the final episodes of The 100?
Bellamy’s death served as a catalyst for the final conflicts and resolutions of the series. It intensified the emotional stakes, further complicated the relationships between the characters, and raised profound questions about the nature of transcendence and the future of humanity. It also served as a constant reminder of the sacrifices made along the way.
H3 Could Bellamy have been redeemed after joining the Disciples?
Whether Bellamy could have been redeemed is a subjective question. Some argue that his fundamental goodness would have eventually prevailed, while others believe his indoctrination by the Disciples had fundamentally altered his character. The show ultimately chose not to explore this possibility, opting for a more tragic and controversial conclusion.
H3 How did the showrunner, Jason Rothenberg, respond to the fan backlash surrounding Bellamy’s death?
Jason Rothenberg addressed the fan backlash, acknowledging the disappointment and offering explanations for the creative decisions made. He emphasized that the show aimed to be unpredictable and emotionally impactful, and that Bellamy’s death, while difficult, was a necessary part of the overall narrative. His responses, however, did little to quell the anger and disappointment of many fans.
H3 What is the lasting legacy of Bellamy Blake in the context of The 100?
Despite the controversy surrounding his death, Bellamy remains a significant and memorable character in the The 100 universe. He is remembered for his growth, his leadership, his unwavering loyalty (until Season 7), and his complex relationship with Clarke. His story serves as a reminder of the difficult choices faced in a world ravaged by conflict and the enduring power of human connection.
H3 Where can I watch the episode “The Stranger” and other episodes of The 100?
The 100 is available for streaming on various platforms depending on your region. Popular options include Netflix, Amazon Prime Video (depending on location and availability), and potentially Hulu. Check your local streaming services for availability.