Lin-Manuel Miranda's First Percy Jackson Scene Makes Hermes' Book Story Even Better (But Complicates The Villain Twist)

The Grand Entrance of Lin-Manuel Miranda's Hermes

Lin-Manuel Miranda's portrayal of Hermes in Percy Jackson and the Olympians episode 3 has brought significant changes to the storyline, making it more engaging and complex. Despite not appearing in the first book, Miranda's Hermes makes a story-changing grand entrance, altering the circumstances of the appearances of certain Greek gods and mythical figures. This portrayal has new implications for the future characterization of Luke's father, Hermes.

Lin-Manuel Miranda as Hermes laughing in Percy Jackson and the Olympians

In the final scene of episode 3, Hermes delivers the box containing Medusa's head to the other Olympians, dressed in a mailman uniform while humming along to 'Arthur's Theme' on his ride up the Empire State Building's elevator. This scene, although brief, is incredibly memorable and adds a new layer to the character of Hermes.

Characters from Percy Jackson and the Olympians

Impact on Luke's Villain Twist

Miranda's portrayal of Hermes as a friendly joker and a well-liked deity complicates the audience's perception of Luke's upcoming season 1 twists. His positive introduction makes it more difficult to buy into Luke's villainous anger, adding complexity to the storyline.

With Hermes being absent in The Lightning Thief, it's easier to sympathize with Luke and his resentment of his father as someone who abandoned him. However, the positive portrayal of Hermes in the show changes the dynamics and implications of Luke's character, making his reveal as the villain more shocking.

Importance for Percy Jackson Season 1

In the books, the gods remain very distant from Percy's quest, with few exceptions. However, bringing Hermes into the fold in Percy Jackson's TV show alleviates some of this disconnect, especially with the revelation of the villain being his own son. This change makes the conflict and anti-Greek god themes more engaging and complex, adding depth to the storyline.

Turning Hermes into both a visible, connective person and a faraway god who neglects his children enhances the complexity of the conflict and the themes of the series.