Lincoln, the beloved Grounder warrior and compassionate healer, meets his devastating end in Season 3, Episode 9, titled “Stealing Fire.” This episode marked a significant turning point in The 100, leaving viewers heartbroken and the remaining characters reeling from the loss.
Lincoln’s Significance and Role in The 100
Lincoln was more than just a character on The 100; he represented a bridge between the Sky People and the Grounders. Initially presented as an antagonist, his relationship with Octavia Blake blossomed into a powerful symbol of unity and understanding. He risked his life repeatedly to protect her and other Sky People, demonstrating a moral compass often lacking amongst the series’ hardened survivors. His medical expertise and knowledge of Grounder culture proved invaluable to Clarke and the others. The character’s empathy and willingness to see beyond tribal divides made him a fan favorite and a crucial voice of reason amidst the constant conflict. His death, therefore, resonated deeply with viewers and had profound repercussions for the narrative.
Lincoln’s Character Arc
Lincoln’s journey was one of constant struggle and sacrifice. He faced prejudice from both Grounders and Sky People, yet he consistently strived for peace. He endured torture, addiction to the Grounder Reaper serum, and the constant threat of violence, all while maintaining his core values. His willingness to stand up for what he believed in, even when it meant facing overwhelming odds, defined his character. He constantly challenged Octavia to be better and helped her embrace her identity as a warrior, ultimately shaping her into the strong and independent leader she became. His character served as a constant reminder of the potential for humanity to overcome its differences and find common ground.
The Importance of “Stealing Fire”
“Stealing Fire” is a pivotal episode for several reasons. Beyond Lincoln’s death, it further explores the growing threat of A.L.I.E., the rogue AI, and her influence over the minds of the Sky People. The episode also deepens the divisions within Arkadia, highlighting the conflicting ideologies between those who support A.L.I.E. and those who resist her control. Lincoln’s death acts as a catalyst, pushing Octavia down a dark path of vengeance and further fracturing the already fragile alliances. It also underscores the brutal realities of survival in the post-apocalyptic world of The 100, where even the most noble characters are not immune to tragedy.
The Circumstances of Lincoln’s Death
Lincoln’s death is both tragic and infuriating. He sacrifices himself to save the lives of his friends, including Kane and Sinclair, who are being held prisoner by Pike and his followers. In a desperate attempt to prevent further bloodshed, Lincoln surrenders himself to Pike in exchange for their release. Despite promises to spare him, Pike executes Lincoln in cold blood, right in front of Octavia. This act of betrayal is particularly devastating because Lincoln was actively working towards peace and attempting to prevent further conflict between the Grounders and the Sky People. The visual of Octavia witnessing the execution is a deeply impactful and emotionally charged moment in the series.
Pike’s Role and Motivation
Pike, the newly elected Chancellor, embodies the escalating xenophobia and mistrust that plagued Arkadia. He saw the Grounders as a constant threat, fueled by his past experiences and the attacks on Mount Weather. His fear and prejudice led him to believe that only the complete eradication of the Grounders could ensure the safety of his people. This belief drove him to commit atrocities, including the massacre of sleeping Grounder soldiers and, ultimately, the murder of Lincoln. Pike’s actions represent a dangerous descent into extremism and a rejection of the possibility of peaceful co-existence.
The Aftermath of Lincoln’s Death
Lincoln’s death has a ripple effect throughout the remaining seasons of The 100. Octavia, consumed by grief and rage, embarks on a relentless quest for vengeance against Pike. This transformation leads her to embrace her warrior identity and eventually become “Blodreina,” a ruthless and unforgiving leader. The loss of Lincoln also impacts the relationships between the Sky People and the Grounders, further complicating the already precarious alliances. His death serves as a constant reminder of the sacrifices made in the name of survival and the devastating consequences of prejudice and hate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Lincoln’s Death
Here are some frequently asked questions about Lincoln’s death in The 100:
1. Why did the writers decide to kill off Lincoln?
While various rumors circulated, actor Ricky Whittle publicly stated his frustration with the show’s creative direction and lack of screen time for his character, leading to a strained relationship with the showrunner. While unconfirmed, many believe this contributed to the decision to write Lincoln out of the show.
2. How did Octavia react to Lincoln’s death?
Octavia’s reaction was one of profound grief and unbridled rage. She became consumed by a thirst for vengeance against Pike, leading her down a dark path and fundamentally changing her character. Lincoln’s death was the catalyst for her transformation into Blodreina.
3. Could Lincoln’s death have been prevented?
Several factors contributed to Lincoln’s death, including Pike’s paranoia and the escalating conflict between the Sky People and the Grounders. While it’s difficult to say definitively whether it could have been prevented, a different course of action by Pike or a successful intervention by Clarke and the others might have altered the outcome.
4. Did Lincoln die in the books?
No, Lincoln does not die in The 100 book series by Kass Morgan. The book series deviates significantly from the television show, and Lincoln’s character has a different trajectory.
5. Was Lincoln’s death necessary for the plot?
Whether Lincoln’s death was “necessary” is subjective. While it served as a catalyst for significant character development, particularly for Octavia, and propelled the plot forward, some viewers felt it was a gratuitous and unnecessary loss of a beloved character.
6. What impact did Lincoln’s death have on the Grounders?
Lincoln’s death further strained the already fragile peace between the Sky People and the Grounders. It fueled mistrust and resentment, making it more difficult for Clarke and the others to forge alliances.
7. How did fans react to Lincoln’s death?
Fans were overwhelmingly heartbroken and outraged by Lincoln’s death. Many expressed their disappointment on social media and criticized the show’s writers for killing off a character they deeply admired.
8. Did Ricky Whittle, the actor who played Lincoln, have any regrets about leaving the show?
While Whittle hasn’t explicitly stated regrets, his public comments at the time of his departure indicated dissatisfaction with the way his character was being treated. He has since moved on to other successful roles.
9. How did Lincoln’s death affect the overall tone of The 100?
Lincoln’s death contributed to the increasingly dark and morally ambiguous tone of The 100. It reinforced the idea that no character was safe and that even the most noble individuals could be victims of the brutal realities of their world.
10. What was the significance of Lincoln’s medical skills?
Lincoln’s medical skills were crucial in providing aid and healing to both Sky People and Grounders. He was a skilled healer, knowledgeable about both traditional Grounder medicine and more advanced techniques. His expertise often proved vital in saving lives and bridging cultural divides.
11. How did Lincoln’s relationship with Octavia evolve throughout the series?
Their relationship started as a prisoner-captor dynamic but quickly evolved into a deep and loving bond. Lincoln helped Octavia embrace her identity as a warrior and taught her about Grounder culture. Their love for each other transcended cultural barriers and served as a symbol of hope for unity.
12. Are there any tributes to Lincoln within the show after his death?
Throughout the subsequent seasons, characters frequently mention Lincoln and reflect on his influence. Octavia often carries his memory with her, and his actions continue to shape her decisions. Small details, like Octavia wearing items related to Lincoln, serve as ongoing tributes to his character.
In conclusion, Lincoln’s death in Season 3, Episode 9 (“Stealing Fire”) was a pivotal and deeply impactful moment in The 100. It served as a catalyst for significant character development, heightened the stakes, and underscored the brutal realities of survival in the post-apocalyptic world. While his loss was deeply felt by fans, his legacy continues to resonate throughout the remaining seasons.