The character of Lincoln Burrows, falsely accused and sentenced to death in “Prison Break,” is finally and definitively exonerated in Season 4, Episode 22, titled “Killing Your Number.” This pivotal moment marks the culmination of years of struggle, betrayal, and relentless pursuit of the truth, freeing Lincoln from the shadow of wrongful conviction that has haunted him since the series’ inception.
The Significance of “Killing Your Number”
While Lincoln’s path to proving his innocence is fraught with near-misses and temporary reprieves, “Killing Your Number” provides the conclusive evidence and legal closure that grants him complete exoneration. This episode sees the Company’s power drastically weakened, allowing for the evidence of their conspiracy to finally surface and reach the proper authorities. It’s not just about clearing Lincoln’s name; it’s about dismantling a deep-seated system of corruption.
The relief and joy expressed by Lincoln and his brother, Michael Scofield, upon this news are palpable. This moment is a payoff for the audience, who have witnessed their unwavering determination to uncover the truth, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. The episode acts as a critical turning point, allowing the characters to finally focus on rebuilding their lives and finding some semblance of peace. It signifies a move toward justice and a future free from constant fear and persecution.
The Journey to Justice: A Tortuous Path
Lincoln’s exoneration wasn’t a single event, but rather the result of a complex and dangerous journey. The entire series revolves around proving his innocence, and each season presents new obstacles and challenges. From the daring prison break to the global pursuit of Scorporations, every decision Michael and Lincoln make pushes them closer to, or further away from, this ultimate goal.
Key Moments Leading Up to Exoneration
- Season 1: The initial break from Fox River is driven by the urgent need to delay Lincoln’s execution and buy time to investigate the conspiracy against him.
- Season 2: The brothers are fugitives, constantly on the run while piecing together the puzzle of Lincoln’s framing. They expose President Reynolds’ involvement, which further complicates their situation.
- Season 3: Lincoln and Michael are caught in Panama, where Michael is imprisoned in SONA. Lincoln works tirelessly to secure Michael’s release, facing deadly adversaries and navigating dangerous alliances.
- Season 4 (Pre-Exoneration): The focus shifts to dismantling the Company and retrieving Scylla, the Company’s digital black book. This mission, orchestrated by Homeland Security, ultimately provides the evidence needed to expose the conspiracy.
It’s important to remember that Lincoln experiences numerous setbacks along the way, including being temporarily cleared based on fabricated evidence that is later discredited. These temporary reprieves only intensify the frustration and highlight the deep-seated corruption he’s fighting against.
FAQs About Lincoln Burrows’ Exoneration
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Lincoln Burrows’ exoneration in “Prison Break”:
Why was Lincoln Burrows originally arrested?
Lincoln Burrows was framed for the murder of Terrence Steadman, the brother of Vice President Caroline Reynolds. The Company orchestrated the murder and meticulously planted evidence to make Lincoln appear guilty, using him as a pawn in their power game.
What role did Michael Scofield play in Lincoln’s exoneration?
Michael Scofield was instrumental in Lincoln’s exoneration. He meticulously planned the prison break to buy time and uncover evidence that would clear his brother’s name. Throughout the series, Michael uses his intelligence, resourcefulness, and unwavering dedication to expose the conspiracy and bring the truth to light.
What is “The Company” and how did they frame Lincoln?
“The Company” is a shadowy organization with significant political and economic influence. They framed Lincoln because his father, Aldo Burrows, possessed information that threatened their operations. To silence Aldo, they used Lincoln as a scapegoat, ensuring Aldo couldn’t expose them without sacrificing his son.
How did Scylla contribute to Lincoln’s exoneration?
Scylla contains crucial information about the Company’s operations, including evidence of their illegal activities and the conspiracy to frame Lincoln. Retrieving and delivering Scylla to Homeland Security provides the irrefutable proof needed to expose the Company and overturn Lincoln’s conviction.
Did anyone else help Michael and Lincoln in their fight for exoneration?
Yes, numerous characters aided Michael and Lincoln in their fight for justice, including Veronica Donovan, Fernando Sucre, Brad Bellick (surprisingly, in a way), and Alexander Mahone. Each character contributed in their own way, often at great personal risk, to uncover the truth and expose the Company’s corruption.
How did Caroline Reynolds’ resignation affect Lincoln’s case?
Caroline Reynolds’ forced resignation as President significantly weakened the Company’s influence. While she initially played a key role in framing Lincoln, her downfall paved the way for the investigation that ultimately led to his exoneration. Her departure removed a major obstacle in their path.
What happened to the individuals responsible for framing Lincoln?
Many of the individuals responsible for framing Lincoln faced justice. Some were arrested and prosecuted, while others met more violent ends. The exposure of the Company’s corruption led to a widespread investigation, holding numerous individuals accountable for their actions.
Was Lincoln ever actually close to being executed?
Yes, Lincoln came incredibly close to being executed multiple times. His execution was delayed through legal maneuvers, Michael’s actions, and the uncovering of temporary evidence. The constant threat of execution hung over Lincoln throughout the first season, adding immense pressure and urgency to the situation.
What were the long-term consequences of Lincoln’s wrongful conviction?
Lincoln’s wrongful conviction had profound and lasting consequences on his life. He lost his job, his reputation was tarnished, and he was forced to live as a fugitive for years. He also struggled with trust issues and the emotional trauma of being wrongly accused of a heinous crime. His family was also deeply affected, particularly his son, L.J. Burrows.
What happens to Lincoln after he is exonerated?
After his exoneration, Lincoln is finally able to rebuild his life and start fresh. He works alongside Michael to dismantle the remnants of the Company and ensure justice is served. He also focuses on repairing his relationship with his son, L.J.
Does Michael get exonerated as well?
While Michael isn’t framed for a specific crime at the outset, his actions during the prison break and subsequent pursuit of justice make him a fugitive. While never formally exonerated in the traditional sense, the dismantling of the Company and the exposure of their crimes essentially clears his name and allows him to live freely (albeit with the lingering implications of his past). The circumstances surrounding his “death” in the original series finale, and his subsequent return in the revival series, further complicate the issue of official exoneration.
Why is Lincoln’s exoneration such a significant moment in “Prison Break”?
Lincoln’s exoneration is a crucial turning point in the series because it represents the culmination of the brothers’ struggle and the triumph of justice over corruption. It allows them to finally move on from the past and build a future free from fear and persecution. It’s the payoff for years of hardship and a testament to their unwavering brotherly love. The exoneration also allows the show to shift focus to other storylines and character arcs, providing closure for some and opening new possibilities for others.