Lincoln, a fan favorite and morally grounded character, tragically dies in Season 3, Episode 9, titled “Stealing Fire.” His death is a pivotal moment that significantly impacts the remaining characters and the overall trajectory of the series.
A Deeper Dive into Lincoln’s Demise
The death of Lincoln, played by Ricky Whittle, remains one of the most controversial and emotionally charged moments in “The 100.” While the event is definitively placed within Season 3, Episode 9, the circumstances surrounding it, and its ramifications, are far more complex. Understanding the context of this loss is crucial for appreciating its weight within the narrative.
The Precipitating Events
Leading up to his death, Lincoln finds himself increasingly at odds with the actions of Pike, the newly elected Chancellor. Pike’s hardline stance against the Grounders, viewing them as an inherent threat, directly clashes with Lincoln’s established relationships and his commitment to peaceful coexistence. Lincoln, dedicated to protecting his loved ones, particularly Octavia, actively resists Pike’s policies, which inevitably leads to his capture and imprisonment.
The Moment of Truth
The core of Lincoln’s tragedy stems from his unwavering loyalty and selflessness. Pike, intending to execute the Grounders held captive, offers Lincoln a deal: he can walk free if he identifies the Grounders who were about to attack Arkadia. Lincoln refuses to betray his friends, choosing to sacrifice himself instead. This act of defiance culminates in Pike shooting Lincoln point-blank, a stark illustration of the brutality and escalating conflict within the series. His death occurs inside Arkadia, adding a layer of betrayal and internal strife to the already complex political landscape.
The Aftermath and Legacy
Lincoln’s death has a profound impact on Octavia, driving her further down a path of vengeance and deepening her already established connection with the Grounder ways. It also serves as a stark warning about the dangers of prejudice and the cyclical nature of violence. The loss of Lincoln becomes a rallying cry for those who believe in peace and cooperation, though its immediate effect is to fuel the flames of war.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Lincoln’s Death
This section addresses some of the most common questions surrounding Lincoln’s death, providing further clarity and context.
H3: 1. Why was Lincoln killed off in “The 100”?
While the official reasons are complex and involve alleged behind-the-scenes tensions, the narrative reason presented was to showcase the escalating conflict between Arkadia and the Grounders, and to highlight the devastating consequences of prejudice and violence. There were reports of friction between the actor, Ricky Whittle, and the showrunner, Jason Rothenberg, leading to his character’s untimely demise.
H3: 2. How did Octavia react to Lincoln’s death?
Octavia’s reaction was one of intense grief and rage. Lincoln’s death became a defining moment for her character, solidifying her hatred for Pike and fueling her desire for revenge against those responsible. It pushed her further into the Grounder culture and ultimately shaped her arc into the warrior known as “Skairipa.”
H3: 3. Did other characters mourn Lincoln’s death?
Yes, many characters mourned Lincoln’s death, though the intensity varied. Clarke, Bellamy, and Kane, among others, expressed regret and acknowledged the injustice of his passing. His death served as a catalyst for some to question Pike’s leadership and his policies towards the Grounders.
H3: 4. Was Lincoln’s death necessary for the plot?
Whether Lincoln’s death was “necessary” is subjective and a point of much debate among fans. Narratively, it served to escalate the conflict, further develop Octavia’s character, and illustrate the consequences of unchecked prejudice. However, some argue that his character had more potential and could have been utilized in different ways.
H3: 5. What episode does Pike kill Lincoln?
Pike kills Lincoln in Season 3, Episode 9: “Stealing Fire.” This episode is a pivotal point in the season’s narrative.
H3: 6. How does Lincoln’s death affect the relationship between Clarke and Lexa?
While not directly linked, Lincoln’s death occurs amidst the breakdown of the alliance between Arkadia and the Grounders. This indirectly impacts Clarke’s relationship with Lexa, as it contributes to the overall instability and conflict between the two groups. Lexa’s priorities shift to protecting her people, further complicating her alliance with Clarke.
H3: 7. Did Lincoln and Octavia have a child in “The 100”?
No, Lincoln and Octavia did not have a child in “The 100.” Their relationship was a significant part of the series, but it did not progress to parenthood.
H3: 8. Was Ricky Whittle happy with the way Lincoln’s story ended?
No, Ricky Whittle has publicly stated that he was unhappy with the way Lincoln’s story concluded. He cited creative differences with the showrunner as the primary reason for his dissatisfaction.
H3: 9. What are some alternative scenarios where Lincoln could have survived?
Many fans have speculated on alternative scenarios where Lincoln could have survived. These range from Pike being overthrown before he could execute Lincoln, to Lincoln finding a way to escape captivity, or even Octavia intervening in time to save him. However, these are purely hypothetical and do not reflect the actual events of the show.
H3: 10. How does Lincoln’s death contribute to the themes of “The 100”?
Lincoln’s death underscores several key themes of “The 100,” including the cyclical nature of violence, the dangers of prejudice, the complexities of morality in a survival situation, and the importance of fighting for peace and justice, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
H3: 11. What was Lincoln’s profession before he met Octavia?
Lincoln was a Grounder warrior and healer before he met Octavia. He belonged to the Trikru clan and possessed knowledge of medicinal practices and combat skills.
H3: 12. How did Lincoln’s background as a healer influence his actions leading up to his death?
Lincoln’s background as a healer deeply influenced his actions. He believed in preserving life and avoiding unnecessary conflict. This commitment to peace and his desire to bridge the gap between Arkadia and the Grounders directly motivated his resistance against Pike, ultimately leading to his sacrifice. His healing abilities made him a compassionate character, unwilling to betray his friends even at the cost of his own life.