How The 100 Could Have Redeemed Its Later Seasons with a Bold Character Decision

The 100, inspired by Kass Morgan's book series, could have revitalized its last seasons by taking a bold step with the main characters. The CW series, set in a post-apocalyptic world, follows 100 young offenders from the Ark as they return to Earth to test their survival skills 97 years after a nuclear disaster. To their surprise, they find out they are not the only ones on the planet.

The show reached its conclusion after seven seasons and exactly 100 episodes, not because it was canceled by the CW. Showrunner Jason Rothenberg chose to end it, feeling that the story had run its course. Unfortunately, the series had been struggling in the last two seasons before its conclusion. There was a potential solution to this issue that would have involved a significant risk with the main characters. While this gamble could have backfired, it also had the potential to keep the show fresh for many more seasons without losing its appeal.

The 100's Later Seasons Should Have Focused On The Next Generation Of Characters

The 100 Introduced A New Generation Of Characters, Including Jordan, Madi, and Hope

Madi in The 100 Season 7 in the white room - The 100 Introduced A New Generation Of Characters, Including Jordan, Madi, and Hope - The 100's Later Seasons Should Have Focused On The Next Generation Of Characters

Both these characters were well-developed, compelling to watch, and were built up to be the series’ future.

In the later seasons of The 100, new characters were introduced who had the potential to become the main focus of the series. Jordan Green, the son of Monty Green and Harper McIntyre, was in cryosleep for almost a century and made his debut in the season 5 finale. Another key character, Madi Griffin, a Nightblood Grounder and Clarke's adopted daughter, first appeared in season 4 and played a larger role in season 5. These characters were well-developed, captivating to watch, and were set up to be the future of the show.

Even further into the series, The 100 introduced more young characters who could have taken the lead. One of them was Hope Diyoza, the daughter of Charmine Diyoza and Paxton McCreary. She made a guest appearance in season 6 and became a main character in the final season. However, despite these promising additions, the show decided to continue focusing on the original characters, particularly Clarke and Bellamy. This lack of willingness to take risks ultimately had a negative impact on the series and contributed to a disappointing final season.

Clarke & Bellamy's Story Should Have Ended After The 100 Season 5

Clarke And Bellamy Were Wasted And Ruined In The 100 Seasons 6 And 7

Clarke and Bellamy look upset and stressed in The 100 Season 5, - Clarke And Bellamy Were Wasted And Ruined In The 100 Seasons 6 And 7 - Clarke & Bellamy's Story Should Have Ended After The 100 Season 5

The focus on Clarke and Bellamy throughout The 100 was a big mistake. By the end of season 5, their character development had hit a roadblock, forcing the writers to compromise growth for a gripping conclusion. Bellamy's decision to join Second Dawn in season 7 felt out of place. He had already evolved from his past experiences with Pike and the Grounders, leading to a shift in his beliefs. Furthermore, Bellamy's absence for most of season 7 hinted at a lack of direction for his character.

It's unfortunate that Clarke doesn't get to ascend, especially since she's one of the most deserving characters in The 100.

Additionally, the unexpected event of Clarke killing Bellamy in The 100 was both surprising and unsatisfying. This decision seemed out of character for both individuals and had a negative impact on Clarke's development. It felt like the writers chose this path to convey a specific message rather than staying true to the characters. It's disappointing that Clarke, who has been a central figure throughout The 100, is denied the chance to ascend. Overall, it appears that the creators did not prioritize the emotional investment that viewers had in this couple.

The 100 could have avoided its final season backlash with this risky character choice

Truthfully, The 100 should’ve stopped following Clarke and Bellamy at the end of season 5 after they’d reunited and gotten back on positive terms. This was the natural stopping point for their story. They’d already grown as much as they could and gotten the happy ending they deserved. What’s more, The 100 season 6 seemed to rehash the idea of Clarke and Bellamy being separated and united again, which is, frankly, boring to watch. Then, their final season goes downhill quickly. This story went on for too long instead of recognizing when it was time to pass the torch.

The 100's Season 7 Failure Could've Been Prevented

Clarke and her friendslook upset in a warehouse in The 100 - The 100's Season 7 Failure Could've Been Prevented - The 100 Could Have Avoided Its Final Season Backlash With This Risky Character Choice

The 100 season 7 disappointed many fans as it is considered the weakest season of the series. The incorporation of confusing mythology with inconsistent internal rules left viewers scratching their heads. Additionally, the way main characters were killed off was poorly executed, lacking the emotional impact and narrative development needed for such significant moments.

A major flaw of The 100 season 7 was the unnecessary splitting up of the group, leading to disjointed storylines that diluted the overall focus of the show. Furthermore, the character development suffered as the series seemed to regress, with the characters losing depth and complexity due to lazy writing choices.

To avoid these pitfalls, The 100 could have shifted its focus towards the next generation of characters. By introducing new faces and storylines, the show could have sidestepped the convoluted mythology and reduced the number of unresolved plot points. This approach would have provided more flexibility in terms of character deaths, allowing for fresh narratives and emotional stakes to be explored with original or next-generation characters.

Editor's P/S:

The article's analysis of The 100's decline in later seasons is insightful and well-reasoned. The suggestion that the show should have focused on the next generation of characters, rather than continuing to center on Clarke and Bellamy, is compelling. By introducing new faces and storylines, the show could have avoided the repetitive and unsatisfying narrative arcs that plagued its final seasons.

The article effectively highlights the missed opportunity to develop Jordan, Madi, and Hope as the future of the show. These characters had the potential to bring fresh perspectives and drive the narrative in new directions. Their relegation to supporting roles ultimately weakened the show and prevented it from reaching its full potential. The decision to prioritize nostalgia over innovation ultimately proved detrimental to the series.