Unveiling the Hidden Gems
In a surprising turn of events, Netflix's rendition of Avatar: The Last Airbender season 1 unveiled a long-awaited joke that had been brewing for 19 years. As the first season of The Last Airbender reached its conclusion, viewers were treated to a refreshing take on the beloved series, rectifying many of the shortcomings of the 2010 movie adaptation by M. Night Shyamalan. The live-action adaptation successfully captured the essence of the original characters and storylines, a feat that eluded the previous film adaptation.
Amidst the adaptations and alterations made to certain characters, such as King Bumi, to ensure a unique interpretation, the series did not shy away from paying tribute to the source material. From subtle nods like the statues of Flopsy in Bumi's domain to the poignant melody of 'Leaves from the Vine' underscoring the emotional journey of Zuko and Iroh, the first season of Netflix's The Last Airbender was a treasure trove of Easter eggs. However, one particular Easter egg stood out, resolving a 19-year-old Avatar: The Last Airbender joke that is poised to carry forward into the upcoming season.
The Cabbage Man screaming next to his burning cabbages in Netflix
The Saga of the Cabbage Man
Central to this revelation is the iconic cabbage man, a recurring character in the Avatar universe whose presence in Netflix's adaptation added a layer of nostalgia and humor. The memorable scene in The Last Airbender episode 3, where Aang, Katara, and Sokka inadvertently disrupt a cart of cabbages in Omashu, followed by Zuko's fiery intervention that leads to the infamous cry of 'My cabbages!', pays homage to the long-standing gag from the original series.
Portrayed by James Sie in both the animated and live-action versions of The Last Airbender, the cabbage merchant's misadventures with the Avatar and his companions, culminating in the perpetual ruination of his cabbage supply, endeared him to fans since his debut in 2005. Netflix's faithful recreation of this beloved character in the live-action adaptation resonated with viewers, breathing new life into a classic joke.
In season 1 of the live-action adaptation, the cabbage man's presence was not limited to a single scene. He made appearances throughout the season, each time finding his cabbages in perilous situations. From encounters with Appa, the flying bison, to being caught in the crossfire of bending battles, the cabbage man's misfortunes continued to amuse fans. These moments served as a delightful callback to the original series and showcased the dedication of the show's creators in staying true to the source material.
Cabbage Man embracing his cabbages in Avatar The Last Airbender animated next to Aang smiling in Avatar the Last Airbender live action
A Legacy in the Making
While the cabbage man's appearance in season 1 of The Last Airbender was a delightful callback to the original series, his presence is poised to endure in future installments. Beyond the first season, the cabbage man made appearances in The Last Airbender season 2 and even in the sequel series, The Legend of Korra. The revelation of his establishment of Cabbage Corp, a thriving business passed down through generations, sets the stage for his continued involvement in Netflix's rendition of Avatar: The Last Airbender, following a masterfully executed homage in season 1.
In the original series, the cabbage man's misadventures led to the creation of Cabbage Corp, a company that played a significant role in the Avatar world. Known for its advancements in technology and its influence in Republic City, Cabbage Corp became a major player in the series. The introduction of this storyline in the Netflix adaptation not only adds depth to the cabbage man's character but also opens up possibilities for new plotlines and developments in future seasons.
As fans eagerly await the next chapter in the live-action adaptation, the legacy of the cabbage man stands as a testament to the enduring charm and humor of the Avatar franchise. The cabbage man's journey from a simple vendor to the founder of a prominent company showcases the growth and evolution of characters in the Avatar universe. His presence in future installments promises to bring more laughter and nostalgia, while also contributing to the overall narrative of the series.
All episodes of Avatar: The Last Airbender season 1 are now available for streaming on Netflix. Fans can immerse themselves in the world of bending, epic battles, and the comedic misfortunes of the cabbage man as they eagerly anticipate the continuation of this beloved story.
