Major Lilywhite’s second transformation into a zombie occurs in iZombie Season 5, Episode 6, “Filthy Rich Homemakers.” This pivotal episode marks a turning point in his character arc and the overall narrative of the show, deepening his commitment to the cause and intertwining his fate even further with Liv Moore and the ongoing zombie/human conflict in Seattle.
The Second Bite: A Deeper Dive into “Filthy Rich Homemakers”
In Season 5, the zombie outbreak in Seattle is escalating, tensions are high, and resources are dwindling. Major, as commander of Fillmore Graves Enterprises (FGE), finds himself increasingly burdened by the weight of responsibility, tasked with maintaining order and rationing brains to the zombie population. This pressure, coupled with the constant threat of anti-zombie factions, creates a precarious environment for everyone involved.
“Filthy Rich Homemakers” centers on Liv consuming the brains of a reality TV star, leading to comedic and dramatic consequences as she embodies the persona of the deceased woman. However, the episode’s climax is undeniably Major’s re-zombification. The circumstances surrounding his transformation are crucial: he is mortally wounded while attempting to protect a group of zombies from a prejudiced human militia. To save his life, Ravi Chakrabarti, driven by loyalty and scientific imperative, uses the zombie cure in reverse, turning Major back into a zombie.
This decision is not taken lightly. Ravi understands the implications, knowing he is essentially condemning Major to a life potentially filled with brain cravings and societal ostracization. However, the alternative is certain death. This act of desperation underscores the desperate situation in Seattle and the lengths to which the characters will go to protect those they care about. The episode ends with a poignant scene, highlighting the emotional toll on both Major and Ravi, as they grapple with the ramifications of this life-altering decision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Major’s Zombie Transformations
H3 Why was Major cured of zombism the first time?
Major was originally cured in iZombie Season 2, Episode 9, “Cape Town.” At this point, he was facing a rapid deterioration of his zombie form due to the side effects of the initial cure he’d taken to stabilize him after being scratched. The cure used was a prototype developed by Ravi, and while effective, it was inherently unstable, leading to neurological issues and the need for a full reversal to human form. This cure was deemed necessary to save his life and prevent him from becoming a mindless, ravenous zombie.
H3 What were the side effects of Major being a zombie the first time?
During his first stint as a zombie, Major experienced the standard zombie needs, primarily the craving for brains to survive. Beyond the basic biological requirements, he also faced significant emotional and psychological challenges. He grappled with the moral implications of his existence, particularly the need to consume brains and the fear of losing control. The psychological burden of being a zombie, hiding his identity, and struggling with his cravings took a significant toll on his mental health.
H3 How did Ravi reverse the cure to turn Major back into a zombie?
Ravi’s method of reversing the cure involved understanding its molecular structure and how it interacted with the zombie virus. He essentially re-engineered the compound to reinforce the viral activity instead of suppressing it. He used a modified version of the cure formula, specifically targeting the components that inhibited the zombification process, effectively re-introducing the zombie virus and amplifying its effects.
H3 What were the immediate consequences of Major becoming a zombie again?
Immediately after the transformation, Major experienced the usual zombie symptoms: pallor, heightened senses, and, of course, the insatiable craving for brains. However, this second transformation seemed to solidify his resolve. He accepted his fate with a newfound determination, understanding that his zombie status was essential to his role in protecting the zombie community. The initial shock was quickly replaced by a commitment to his responsibilities as the leader of FGE.
H3 Did Major have to hide his zombie identity the second time around?
The context surrounding Major’s second zombification was drastically different. The existence of zombies was publicly known, and Seattle was effectively a divided city. Therefore, Major no longer had to hide his zombie identity. In fact, his status as a zombie reinforced his leadership role within FGE and the zombie community. His public identity as a zombie provided a sense of trust and connection with those he was charged with protecting.
H3 How did Liv react to Major becoming a zombie again?
Liv’s reaction was a mix of relief and heartbreak. Relief that he was alive, but heartbroken that he was once again burdened with the challenges of being a zombie. Their relationship had always been complicated by their respective zombie and human statuses, and this re-transformation further complicated their dynamic. However, Liv ultimately supported Major’s decision, understanding the circumstances that led to it and recognizing his commitment to his responsibilities. She stood by him, providing emotional support and understanding.
H3 Did Major’s personality change after becoming a zombie for the second time?
While the fundamental aspects of Major’s personality remained intact, his second transformation did seem to strengthen his resolve and deepen his understanding of the zombie experience. He became more empathetic towards other zombies and more resolute in his commitment to their protection. He seemed to accept his fate with a level of acceptance and purpose that was not as readily apparent during his first transformation.
H3 How did Major’s role as the leader of FGE change after he was re-zombified?
Major’s re-zombification solidified his position as a leader within FGE. Being a zombie himself, he could now directly relate to the challenges and needs of the zombie community. This increased his credibility and allowed him to make decisions with a deeper understanding of the consequences. He became an even stronger advocate for zombie rights and a more effective leader in navigating the complex political landscape of Seattle.
H3 Was there any hope for Major to become human again after his second transformation?
The show explored various potential cures and solutions throughout the final season, but Major’s path ultimately remained tied to his zombie status. While the possibility of a cure was always a lingering question, it was never a primary focus for Major. He seemed more concerned with fulfilling his responsibilities and protecting the zombie community. The ending implied a future where zombies and humans could co-exist, potentially rendering the need for a cure less pressing.
H3 How did Major cope with the brain cravings the second time he was a zombie?
Major continued to rely on the regulated brain rations provided by FGE to manage his cravings. The controlled supply chain and ethical sourcing of brains were essential to maintaining order and preventing him from resorting to illegal means. He understood the importance of responsible brain consumption and remained committed to upholding the ethical standards of FGE. He also seemed to have developed a greater level of self-control over his cravings, likely due to his prior experience and the increased stability of the brain supply.
H3 Did Major ever regret becoming a zombie again?
There were moments of doubt and reflection, but ultimately, Major did not seem to regret his decision. He understood that it was a necessary sacrifice to save his life and allow him to continue serving the zombie community. His commitment to his responsibilities and his genuine care for others outweighed any personal regrets he may have harbored. He accepted his fate and embraced his role as a protector.
H3 How did Major’s second transformation contribute to the overall narrative of iZombie?
Major’s second transformation served as a pivotal plot point, highlighting the complex moral dilemmas faced by the characters and the escalating tensions in Seattle. It underscored the desperate measures taken to survive in a divided city and emphasized the importance of empathy and understanding in navigating the zombie/human conflict. His story became a symbol of sacrifice and dedication, contributing to the show’s exploration of themes such as identity, prejudice, and the meaning of humanity. It allowed for a deeper exploration of the nuances of zombie existence and the challenges of leading a community facing constant threat and discrimination.