John Murphy, the cockroach of The 100, is renowned for his uncanny ability to survive seemingly insurmountable odds. Despite facing numerous brushes with death, Murphy never actually dies throughout the show’s seven seasons.
A Character on the Brink: Exploring Murphy’s Close Calls
Murphy’s journey in The 100 is a harrowing testament to resilience. Introduced as a volatile and often unlikeable character, he undergoes significant development, transforming into a complex and ultimately empathetic figure. This transformation is punctuated by a series of near-death experiences that test his resolve and shape his character. He’s been tortured, exiled, infected, and exposed to radiation, each encounter pushing him closer to the brink. Understanding these pivotal moments illuminates his unwavering determination to survive and his surprising capacity for compassion.
Detailed Breakdown of Near-Death Episodes
While Murphy never definitively kicks the bucket, several episodes leave viewers questioning his survival. We’ll explore the most impactful ones:
Season 1, Episode 4: “Murphy’s Law”
This episode arguably sets the tone for Murphy’s relationship with death. Following Wells’ death, suspicion falls upon Murphy, leading to a brutal beating and subsequent banishment. While he doesn’t die, this experience marks a significant turning point, fueling his resentment and shaping his future actions. The mob mentality directed at him underscores the precariousness of life on the ground.
Season 3, Episode 4: “Watch the Thrones”
In this episode, Murphy’s life hangs in the balance as he navigates the treacherous political landscape of Polis. He witnesses the Flamekeeper’s ritual with Lexa and is later taken hostage. The constant threat of death, coupled with the moral compromises he must make to survive, highlight his growing adaptability. His survival here is less about physical prowess and more about strategic thinking.
Season 4, Episode 10: “Die All, Die Merrily”
This episode sees Murphy grappling with the realization that Praimfaya is inevitable and the scramble for survival begins. Though not directly facing imminent death himself, the episode’s title reflects the desperation of the situation, creating an atmosphere where anyone could perish. The competition for a spot in the Second Dawn bunker amplifies the sense of danger and fragility of life.
Season 5, Episode 9: “Sic Semper Tyrannis”
Trapped in the bunker after the Eligius IV prisoners arrive, Murphy faces the wrath of Kara Cooper and her followers. He’s caught in the crossfire of the power struggle, with his survival depending on his ability to play the different factions against each other. This episode showcases his resourcefulness and his willingness to do whatever it takes to stay alive, even if it means betraying others.
Season 6, Episode 8: “The Old Man and the Anomaly”
On Sanctum, Murphy is poisoned and experiences vivid hallucinations. This ordeal forces him to confront his past actions and the person he has become. While the hallucinations are a result of the poison, they feel intensely real, blurring the line between life and death. This episode is crucial for his character development, leading him to genuinely seek redemption.
Season 7, Various Episodes: Immortal Conundrum
Throughout season 7, Murphy becomes “immortal” when his consciousness is copied into a Prime host body, Emori becomes increasingly concerned about the consequences of his choice. His immortality, albeit borrowed, creates a unique tension regarding his mortality. While his original body remained vulnerable, the existence of his consciousness in another body raises questions about what truly constitutes death.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Murphy’s Fate
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Murphy’s character and his numerous encounters with death.
1. What makes Murphy such a compelling character, despite his initial flaws?
Murphy’s compelling nature lies in his capacity for growth. He begins as a deeply flawed individual, driven by resentment and self-preservation. However, through facing constant adversity and witnessing the suffering around him, he evolves into a more compassionate and selfless character. His imperfections make him relatable, and his journey towards redemption makes him a character viewers root for.
2. How does Murphy’s relationship with Emori impact his character arc?
Emori is a significant catalyst for Murphy’s growth. Her unwavering belief in him, despite his flaws, provides him with the stability and support he needs to confront his past and become a better person. Their relationship allows him to experience genuine connection and love, motivating him to protect her and make sacrifices for her well-being.
3. What is the significance of Murphy being referred to as the “cockroach” of The 100?
The “cockroach” moniker signifies Murphy’s remarkable resilience and ability to survive even in the most dire circumstances. Like a cockroach, he seems impervious to destruction, constantly finding a way to persevere. This nickname underscores his unwavering determination to stay alive, even when all hope seems lost.
4. Did Murphy ever truly become a Prime in Season 6?
Yes, in Season 6, Murphy accepts becoming a Prime, essentially transferring his consciousness into a new host body. However, he never truly adopts the Prime mentality. He retained his own personality and memories, using his position to protect his friends and fight against the injustices of Sanctum.
5. What was the biggest threat to Murphy’s life in Season 1?
The mob mentality that led to his banishment was arguably the biggest threat in Season 1. While the physical injuries he sustained were severe, the real danger lay in the irrationality and cruelty of the group, who were ready to execute him based on suspicion alone.
6. How did Murphy’s experience with the City of Light affect him?
Although he wasn’t there long, his brief experience with the City of Light left a lasting impression. He saw the seductive allure of escaping pain and responsibility, but ultimately chose to reject this false paradise. This experience solidified his commitment to living in the real world, with all its complexities and challenges.
7. Why did Murphy choose to help save humanity in the final test?
Despite his self-serving tendencies, Murphy’s growth throughout the series culminates in a selfless act: helping to save humanity during the final test. His love for Emori, coupled with his growing sense of empathy, motivates him to choose the greater good, even at personal risk.
8. What role did Clarke play in Murphy’s overall arc?
Clarke and Murphy’s relationship is complex, beginning as enemies and gradually evolving into a reluctant respect. Clarke’s leadership and unwavering determination often challenged Murphy, forcing him to confront his own values and motivations. She often viewed him as expendable, but his consistent survival forced her to acknowledge his resourcefulness and value.
9. How did the constant threat of death change Murphy’s perspective on life?
The constant threat of death forced Murphy to live in the moment and appreciate the small things. He learned to value human connection and to recognize the importance of fighting for what he believes in. This awareness made him less selfish and more willing to take risks for the sake of others.
10. Were there any instances where Murphy’s actions directly led to the death of others?
Yes, Murphy’s actions, particularly in the earlier seasons, directly contributed to the deaths of others. This guilt haunted him and was a major driver of his character development. He grappled with the consequences of his choices and strived to make amends for his past mistakes.
11. What was Murphy’s biggest regret throughout the series?
While never explicitly stated, it’s likely that Murphy’s biggest regret was his role in the events leading up to Wells’ death. Although he didn’t directly kill Wells, his actions contributed to the volatile atmosphere that led to his murder. This guilt served as a constant reminder of his past mistakes and motivated him to become a better person.
12. How did the writers ensure that Murphy remained a compelling character, even when he was making morally questionable choices?
The writers maintained Murphy’s complexity by showing the internal conflict he experienced as a result of his actions. They consistently highlighted his vulnerabilities and allowed him to express remorse for his mistakes. This nuanced portrayal prevented him from becoming a one-dimensional villain and allowed viewers to empathize with his struggles, even when he made morally questionable choices.