Jackson Kenner, the strong and loyal werewolf who loved Hayley Marshall fiercely, met his untimely demise in season 3, episode 20, titled “Where Nothing Stays Buried.” This pivotal episode saw Jackson sacrificing himself to protect Hayley from the clutches of the Strix, a group of ancient vampires loyal to Elijah Mikaelson. His death sent shockwaves through the Originals fanbase and profoundly impacted Hayley’s journey.
The Impact of Jackson’s Death
Jackson’s death wasn’t just another casualty in the Mikaelson family’s turbulent world; it represented a significant loss of innocence and genuine love. His unwavering devotion to Hayley provided her with a stability and sense of belonging she rarely found amidst the supernatural chaos. The emotional fallout of his death served as a catalyst for Hayley’s subsequent actions and further solidified her commitment to protecting Hope and avenging Jackson’s sacrifice. The episode also explores themes of loss, vengeance, and the enduring power of love in the face of unimaginable grief.
Deconstructing “Where Nothing Stays Buried”
This episode is meticulously crafted to maximize its emotional impact. The narrative cleverly builds tension, gradually revealing the Strix’s plan while simultaneously highlighting Jackson and Hayley’s attempts to find peace and safety. The setting, the performance of the actors, and the musical score all contribute to the episode’s overall sense of impending doom. By allowing the audience to truly connect with Jackson’s character, the creators ensured that his death resonated far beyond the screen.
The Sequence of Events Leading to His Death
The episode opens with Hayley and Jackson enjoying a moment of tranquility, hoping to escape the drama surrounding the Mikaelson family. However, their peace is shattered when the Strix, led by Aurora de Martel, ambushes them. Aurora, seeking revenge against the Mikaelsons and anyone associated with them, targets Hayley and Jackson. During the confrontation, Jackson sustains fatal wounds but manages to ensure Hayley’s escape, urging her to protect their pack. He transforms into his wolf form, fighting valiantly but ultimately succumbing to the vampires’ combined strength. His final moments are spent protecting Hayley, a testament to his selfless nature.
The Aftermath and Reactions
Hayley’s reaction to Jackson’s death is visceral and heartbreaking. Driven by grief and a thirst for vengeance, she embarks on a mission to hunt down and eliminate those responsible. The episode concludes with Hayley mourning Jackson’s loss and vowing to honor his memory by safeguarding the pack and protecting Hope. The ramifications of Jackson’s death extend beyond Hayley, affecting the dynamics within the Mikaelson family and further fueling the ongoing conflict between them and their enemies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Jackson Kenner’s Death
Here are 12 FAQs that delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding Jackson’s death and its impact on the narrative of The Originals:
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What exactly caused Jackson’s death? Jackson died from multiple vampire bites inflicted by members of the Strix, specifically Tristan de Martel’s faction. Their coordinated attack overwhelmed him, even in his werewolf form.
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Why did the Strix target Jackson and Hayley in the first place? The Strix, particularly Aurora de Martel, targeted Hayley as revenge against the Mikaelsons. They believed that hurting those closest to the Mikaelsons would be the most effective way to inflict pain. Jackson was collateral damage, though Aurora recognized his importance to Hayley.
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Could Jackson have been saved if the Mikaelsons had intervened sooner? While the Mikaelsons’ involvement might have altered the outcome, Jackson’s death occurred very quickly. The Strix planned their ambush meticulously, ensuring they had the upper hand. It’s debatable whether even the Originals could have arrived in time to prevent it entirely.
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How did Jackson’s death affect Hayley’s character development? Jackson’s death served as a turning point for Hayley. It hardened her resolve and fueled her protective instincts towards Hope. It also deepened her resentment towards the Mikaelsons, especially Klaus, whom she blamed (indirectly) for attracting the Strix’s attention.
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Did Jackson’s death have any lasting impact on the Crescent Wolf pack? Absolutely. Jackson was the alpha of the Crescent Wolf pack, and his death left a leadership vacuum. Hayley stepped up to fill that role, dedicating herself to honoring his memory and protecting the pack.
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Was there any foreshadowing of Jackson’s death prior to “Where Nothing Stays Buried”? While there weren’t explicit hints, the volatile atmosphere of New Orleans and the increasing danger faced by the Mikaelsons subtly foreshadowed a major character death. Jackson’s relative peacefulness with Hayley perhaps made him a target for tragedy.
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Did Jackson’s death influence the storylines in subsequent seasons of The Originals? Yes, significantly. Hayley’s grief and desire for revenge drove many of her actions in season 4. The loss also influenced Hope’s understanding of her family’s history and the dangers they faced.
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What was the fan reaction to Jackson’s death? The fan reaction was largely negative, with many expressing sadness and outrage at the loss of a beloved character. Many felt Jackson was an underappreciated character who deserved better.
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How did the actors react to Jackson’s death? Both Nathan Parsons, who played Jackson, and Phoebe Tonkin, who played Hayley, spoke about the emotional impact of filming those scenes. They emphasized the importance of portraying the depth of their characters’ relationship and the devastation caused by Jackson’s death.
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Could Jackson potentially return in any future Vampire Diaries universe spin-offs or sequels? Given the supernatural nature of the Vampire Diaries universe, a return is theoretically possible, perhaps through resurrection or flashback sequences. However, as of now, there are no confirmed plans for Jackson’s return.
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How does Jackson compare to other romantic interests Hayley had throughout the series? Jackson stood apart from Hayley’s other romantic interests, such as Elijah, due to his genuine and uncomplicated love for her. He offered her a sense of stability and belonging that was rare in her turbulent life. While Elijah and Hayley’s connection was intense and passionate, Jackson provided Hayley with a simpler, more nurturing kind of love.
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What does Jackson’s death ultimately represent in the larger narrative of The Originals? Jackson’s death serves as a powerful reminder of the high stakes and devastating consequences inherent in the supernatural world. It highlights the fragility of life and the enduring power of love and sacrifice in the face of unimaginable adversity. It also reinforces the theme that even characters who strive for peace and normalcy are not immune to the violence and chaos surrounding the Mikaelson family.