The question hangs in the air, tinged with the bittersweet nostalgia of a post-apocalyptic drama that gripped audiences for seven seasons: Is The 100 finished? For fans who dedicated years to following Clarke, Bellamy, and the ever-evolving ensemble cast through a rollercoaster of survival, moral dilemmas, and intergalactic conflict, the answer is a resounding, yet complicated, yes. The show concluded its run on September 30, 2020, leaving behind a legacy of complex characters, thought-provoking themes, and a devoted fanbase. But the story, in many ways, continues to resonate, fueling discussions and sparking debate about its ending and potential future.
The End of an Era: The 100’s Series Finale
The final season of The 100 was, to say the least, divisive. While some praised its ambitious attempt to tackle universal themes of transcendence and collective consciousness, others felt it strayed too far from the grounded, character-driven narrative that initially captivated viewers. The ultimate fate of the main characters, particularly the resolution of the Bellamy Blake storyline, sparked considerable controversy.
The series finale, titled “The Last War,” presented a resolution where humanity, after countless cycles of violence and self-destruction, was given the option to transcend – to join a higher plane of existence. Clarke Griffin, driven by her fierce loyalty to her friends, ultimately chose to refuse transcendence, along with a handful of others who chose to remain in their physical forms. They were left to rebuild a life on Earth, free from the interference of the beings who had judged them worthy or unworthy of transcendence.
Why The Finale Divided Fans
The controversy surrounding the finale stemmed from several factors. Bellamy Blake’s death in episode 13 of the final season was a major point of contention. Many felt his character arc was abruptly and unsatisfactorily concluded, betraying his established motivations and relationships. The justification for his death, driven by his belief in the Shepherd’s cause, felt forced to some viewers.
Furthermore, the concept of transcendence itself was met with mixed reactions. Some found it a fitting culmination of the show’s exploration of spirituality and human potential. Others felt it was a deus ex machina, a convenient way to resolve the narrative conflicts without adequately addressing the complexities of the characters’ actions and the world they inhabited.
The rushed pacing of the final season also contributed to the dissatisfaction. The introduction of new planets, new factions, and the overarching narrative of the test of transcendence felt crammed into a limited number of episodes, leaving little room for meaningful character development or exploration of the thematic implications.
The Series Creator’s Perspective
Jason Rothenberg, the creator and showrunner of The 100, has repeatedly defended the ending, emphasizing his intention to explore the cyclical nature of violence and the potential for humanity to break free from its destructive patterns. He has acknowledged the controversy surrounding Bellamy’s death, attributing it to unforeseen circumstances and creative decisions made under pressure.
Rothenberg has consistently maintained that the ending was intended to be hopeful, offering a vision of a future where humanity can choose a different path, one based on peace, understanding, and respect for the natural world. He has also emphasized the importance of the journey the characters undertook, even if the destination was not universally embraced.
The Cancelled Prequel and the Future of The 100 Universe
While the original series has concluded, the potential for expansion of The 100 universe remains a topic of speculation and hope for many fans. A planned prequel series, titled “Anaconda,” was in development but ultimately did not move forward.
“Anaconda” was intended to explore the origins of the Grounders, delving into the events that led to the first apocalypse and the formation of the distinct cultures and traditions that characterized the post-apocalyptic world. The prequel was set to introduce new characters and explore the early days of the Grounder society, providing context and depth to the mythology of The 100.
Why the Prequel Was Shelved
Several factors likely contributed to the cancellation of the prequel. Network priorities, budgetary constraints, and creative differences are all common reasons for the shelving of television projects. It’s also possible that the divisive reception to the final season of The 100 influenced the decision, making the network hesitant to invest further in the franchise.
While the official reasons for the cancellation have not been publicly disclosed, speculation abounds within the fanbase. Some believe that the challenges of creating a compelling narrative set in a pre-apocalyptic world, while still maintaining the thematic and tonal consistency with the original series, proved too difficult to overcome. Others suggest that the network simply lost faith in the viability of the franchise after the controversy surrounding the ending of The 100.
Is There Still Hope for a Spin-Off?
Despite the cancellation of “Anaconda,” the possibility of future spin-offs or continuations of The 100 universe cannot be entirely ruled out. The enduring popularity of the series and the rich mythology it created provide ample material for further exploration. The success of other post-apocalyptic dramas, such as “The Walking Dead” and its various spin-offs, demonstrates the continued audience interest in this genre.
Whether a new series would focus on the descendants of the characters who chose to remain on Earth, explore new planets and cultures within the established universe, or even revisit the pre-apocalyptic world through a different lens remains to be seen. However, the dedicated fanbase and the enduring appeal of the core themes of survival, morality, and the search for a better future suggest that The 100 universe may yet have more stories to tell.
The Legacy of The 100: More Than Just a Show
The 100 transcended its genre, becoming more than just a post-apocalyptic drama. It became a cultural touchstone, sparking discussions about complex ethical dilemmas, the nature of leadership, and the consequences of our actions. The show’s diverse cast of characters, each grappling with their own internal conflicts and external pressures, resonated with audiences across a wide range of demographics.
The show tackled challenging themes such as the morality of survival, the burden of leadership, the complexities of forgiveness, and the cyclical nature of violence. These themes were explored through the actions and decisions of the characters, forcing viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about human nature and the choices we make in the face of adversity.
Impact on Viewers and Fandom
The 100 fostered a strong sense of community among its fans. Online forums, social media groups, and fan conventions provided spaces for viewers to connect, share their thoughts and theories, and express their appreciation for the show and its characters. The fandom also played an active role in promoting the show, organizing campaigns to raise awareness and advocate for its renewal.
The show’s impact extended beyond mere entertainment. Many viewers have cited The 100 as a source of inspiration, prompting them to reflect on their own values and beliefs and to engage in discussions about important social and political issues. The show’s emphasis on resilience, adaptability, and the importance of community has resonated with viewers facing their own challenges and struggles.
Enduring Themes and Discussions
Even after its conclusion, The 100 continues to spark discussions and debates. The ethical dilemmas presented throughout the series, such as the decision to sacrifice some to save others, the use of violence as a means of survival, and the consequences of unchecked power, remain relevant and timely.
The show’s exploration of complex characters, each with their own flaws and redeeming qualities, also continues to fascinate viewers. The characters’ struggles with trauma, loss, and the burden of leadership provide a rich tapestry of human experience that resonates with audiences long after the credits have rolled. The legacy of The 100 lies not only in its gripping storylines and compelling characters, but also in its ability to provoke thought, inspire discussion, and foster a sense of community among its devoted fanbase.
Where Are The Cast Members Now?
The conclusion of The 100 marked the end of an era for the cast, but it also opened doors to new opportunities and projects. Many of the actors who brought the beloved characters to life have continued to thrive in the entertainment industry, showcasing their talents in a variety of roles.
Eliza Taylor, who portrayed the strong-willed and compassionate Clarke Griffin, has taken on new projects in both film and television. Her portrayal of Clarke was central to the series, and her continued success is a testament to her talent and dedication.
Bob Morley, who played the honorable and complex Bellamy Blake, has also pursued new acting opportunities. His portrayal of Bellamy’s evolution from a rebellious youth to a selfless leader was a highlight of the series, and fans eagerly anticipate his future projects.
Other cast members, such as Marie Avgeropoulos (Octavia Blake), Lindsey Morgan (Raven Reyes), Richard Harmon (John Murphy), and Tasya Teles (Echo), have also continued to work in television and film, showcasing their versatility and range. Each actor brought a unique energy and depth to their respective characters, contributing to the overall success of The 100.
Exploring Their Recent Projects
Several cast members have taken on roles in other popular television series. For example, Lindsey Morgan joined the cast of “Walker,” a reimagining of the classic action series. Richard Harmon has appeared in various television shows and films, showcasing his ability to portray a wide range of characters.
Other cast members have focused on independent film projects, exploring different genres and challenging themselves as actors. The diverse range of projects undertaken by the cast reflects their talent, ambition, and desire to continue growing and evolving as performers.
The Impact of The 100 on Their Careers
The 100 undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping the careers of its cast members. The series provided them with a platform to showcase their talents to a global audience, and it allowed them to develop their skills through the portrayal of complex and challenging characters.
The experience of working on The 100 also fostered strong bonds among the cast members, who often speak fondly of their time on the show and the friendships they forged. The series created a supportive and collaborative environment that allowed the actors to thrive and grow both personally and professionally.
While The 100 may be finished, its impact on the careers of its cast members is undeniable. The series provided them with a springboard to launch new projects and pursue their passions, and their continued success is a testament to their talent and dedication.
Conclusion: The 100’s Ending – A Closure with Lingering Questions
So, is The 100 finished? Yes, the televised journey has reached its conclusion. The series ended, but its legacy lives on through its complex characters, thought-provoking themes, and dedicated fanbase. The show’s ending, while divisive, sparked important conversations about the nature of humanity, the consequences of our actions, and the possibility of redemption. While the planned prequel series was shelved, the potential for future spin-offs or continuations remains a possibility.
The 100 left an undeniable mark on the landscape of science fiction television. Its exploration of moral ambiguity, the complexities of survival, and the enduring power of human connection resonated with viewers around the world. The show’s legacy will continue to be debated, analyzed, and celebrated by fans for years to come. While the final chapter has been written, the story of The 100, in many ways, continues.
Is “The 100” officially over, or is there a possibility of a revival or continuation?
“The 100” officially concluded its run on The CW after seven seasons, with the final episode airing in September 2020. While the ending polarized some fans, the network has not announced any plans for a revival or continuation of the main series. The narrative threads of Clarke Griffin’s journey and the overarching story of humanity’s struggle for survival have been definitively closed, seemingly ending the original storyline.
Despite the lack of plans for the core show, the possibility of exploring the universe further remains open. The CW had previously developed a prequel series set before the nuclear apocalypse, but it was ultimately not picked up. Although that specific project is dead, the rich lore and world-building of “The 100” could potentially lend itself to future spin-offs or adaptations focusing on different characters, timelines, or aspects of the established universe, though nothing is currently in development.
What was the main criticism surrounding “The 100’s” ending?
One of the biggest criticisms of “The 100’s” ending centered around the fate of Clarke Griffin and her character arc. Many felt that Clarke’s actions in the final season, particularly the controversial decision regarding Cadogan, felt out of character and contradicted her established motivations. This led to a sense that her journey wasn’t given the satisfying resolution that viewers had hoped for after seven seasons.
Another common complaint concerned the “Transcendence” storyline, which introduced a deus ex machina element that some considered a departure from the show’s earlier grounded themes. The idea of humanity being judged and either transcending to a higher plane of existence or being eradicated felt rushed and underdeveloped, lessening the impact of the characters’ sacrifices and struggles throughout the series.
What is “The Grounder’s Legacy” in the context of the show?
“The Grounder’s Legacy” refers to the cultural, societal, and philosophical impact the Grounders had on the Sky People, or the delinquents who descended from space. Initially viewed as savage and primitive, the Grounders possessed a rich and complex society with its own language, customs, and deeply held beliefs about survival and honor. Their interactions with the Sky People forced them to confront their own values and adapt to a new, harsh environment.
Over the course of the series, the Sky People learned valuable lessons from the Grounders about resilience, loyalty, and the importance of respecting the land. They adopted some of the Grounders’ traditions and fighting skills, creating a hybrid culture that reflected the blending of two distinct societies. The legacy of the Grounders ultimately shaped the way the Sky People navigated the challenges of their new world and redefined what it meant to survive.
Which Grounder characters had the most significant impact on the main narrative of “The 100”?
Lexa, the Commander of the Grounders, arguably had the most profound impact on the narrative. Her strategic alliances, complex relationship with Clarke, and strong leadership shaped the course of the war between the Grounders and the Sky People. Her death was a pivotal moment that significantly altered Clarke’s trajectory and influenced her future decisions.
Beyond Lexa, other Grounder characters like Lincoln and Indra played crucial roles. Lincoln’s empathy and willingness to bridge the gap between the two groups allowed him to act as a valuable liaison and advisor. Indra’s unwavering loyalty to her clan and her eventual acceptance of Octavia as a leader demonstrated the potential for understanding and cooperation between the Grounders and the Sky People.
What were the key differences in philosophy between the Grounders and the Sky People?
The Grounders, having lived on Earth for generations after the first nuclear apocalypse, developed a philosophy deeply rooted in survival and adaptation. They prioritized strength, loyalty to their clan, and respect for the natural world. Their traditions and rituals were often brutal, reflecting the harsh realities of their environment.
The Sky People, on the other hand, arrived on Earth with a mindset shaped by their time in space. They valued technology, scientific progress, and democratic ideals. However, they often struggled to adapt to the challenges of survival on Earth, leading to conflicts with the Grounders and forcing them to reconsider their own values and priorities.
How did the concept of “Blood Must Have Blood” influence the conflicts in “The 100”?
The Grounder mantra “Blood Must Have Blood” served as a core principle governing their approach to justice and retribution. It dictated that any act of violence or wrongdoing had to be met with equal retaliation, often escalating conflicts and fueling cycles of revenge. This concept deeply influenced the early interactions between the Grounders and the Sky People.
The Sky People initially struggled to understand this principle, finding it barbaric and counter to their own sense of justice. However, as they became more integrated with the Grounders’ culture and faced their own losses, they began to adopt a more nuanced understanding of the concept, recognizing its potential to maintain order and prevent further violence, though its application often led to morally ambiguous situations.
What message or themes did “The 100” ultimately try to convey about humanity’s future?
Despite its often-dark and violent storylines, “The 100” ultimately explored themes of hope, redemption, and the potential for humanity to learn from its mistakes. The series grappled with the question of whether humanity is inherently doomed to repeat its destructive patterns or if it can evolve and create a better future.
The ending, although controversial, suggested that humanity’s best hope lies in choosing peace and understanding over endless conflict. The surviving characters opted for a life of coexistence on Earth, rejecting the lure of transcendence and embracing the responsibility of building a new society based on compassion and respect for the planet.