The Blacklist finale shocked fans everywhere, especially with the unexpected Bull Twist that had viewers questioning the entire trajectory of the series. As one of the most iconic characters in modern TV, Raymond “Red” Reddington’s fate was a topic of endless speculation leading up to the show’s conclusion. But after the finale aired, fans quickly took to social media and forums, sharing their thoughts on Red’s ending and expressing what they would have done differently.
Was Red’s final fate satisfying? Was the Bull twist necessary, or did it throw everything into disarray? In this article, we’ll dive deep into the reactions from fans and explore the different ways they believe Red’s story could have ended. Whether you agree or not, one thing is certain: the Blacklist finale has sparked passionate debates among its dedicated fanbase.
What Was the Bull Twist in The Blacklist Finale?
Before diving into the fan reactions, let’s briefly recap what fans are calling the Bull Twist. In the final episodes of The Blacklist, the twist revolves around the identity of Raymond Reddington and a long-hidden secret that shatters everything we thought we knew about the character. It’s a bold narrative choice that immediately threw fans for a loop, leaving many questioning the entire premise of the show.
Some viewers were caught off guard by the revelation, while others felt it was a fitting conclusion for the enigmatic character. However, this twist also left many fans feeling unsatisfied and eager to discuss what could have been done differently.
Why Are Fans Disappointed With Red’s Ending?
Fans have been vocal about their disappointment with how The Blacklist wrapped up Red’s storyline. Here are a few reasons why many felt let down:
Unanswered Questions
For years, fans were invested in the mystery surrounding Red’s true identity, and many hoped the finale would answer these questions in a more satisfying way. The Bull Twist raised new questions without providing concrete answers, leaving some fans feeling frustrated and unsatisfied.
Character Development
Red had been portrayed as a highly complex and layered character throughout the series, with his motivations often shrouded in mystery. However, many fans felt that the finale undermined his character’s development. The Bull Twist seemed to erase much of what we’d learned about Red over the course of the show, leaving fans questioning whether the character’s arc was truly fulfilled.
The Emotional Payoff
Throughout The Blacklist, viewers had invested in Red’s relationships with characters like Elizabeth Keen, Dembe, and others. The finale, however, didn’t deliver the emotional payoff many fans expected. The absence of meaningful closure in Red’s relationships left fans feeling disconnected from the finale’s resolution.
What Would Fans Have Done Differently?
While the finale may have left many disappointed, fans have come up with several alternative endings that they believe would have been more satisfying. Here are some of the most popular ideas shared by fans about how Red’s story could have been concluded differently:
1. A Clearer Revelation of Red’s True Identity
One of the most common fan suggestions is that the writers should have provided a more definitive and clear answer to the question of Red’s true identity. For years, fans have speculated about the identity of the “real” Raymond Reddington, and many felt that the Bull Twist simply raised more questions instead of offering a satisfying resolution.
Fan Idea:
Instead of the ambiguous Bull Twist, fans suggested a full reveal of Red’s past, giving viewers the long-awaited answers. Whether it was through a flashback or an emotional confrontation with Elizabeth, the idea of finally uncovering Red’s backstory was a key point many fans wanted.
2. A More Satisfying Conclusion for Elizabeth Keen
Another significant point of discussion among fans was Elizabeth Keen’s role in the finale. Given her central position in the series, many fans felt her arc was left unresolved. Red’s relationship with Liz has been the core of The Blacklist since the beginning, so fans expected a stronger emotional conclusion for both characters.
Fan Idea:
Several fans suggested that a more poignant moment between Red and Liz would have made the finale more emotional and fulfilling. Whether it was a final confrontation or a bittersweet goodbye, viewers wanted a sense of closure between these two iconic characters.
3. A More Heroic Ending for Red
Many fans felt that Red deserved a more heroic and noble ending, especially considering his journey throughout the show. Rather than the ambiguous and somewhat tragic ending, viewers envisioned a Red who, in his final moments, did something selfless for those he loved or the greater good.
Fan Idea:
Fans proposed a scenario where Red sacrifices himself for the safety of Elizabeth or his team. This would not only have been a fitting conclusion for his character but would also have tied up the series’ themes of loyalty, redemption, and sacrifice.
4. More Closure for Dembe
Dembe’s relationship with Red has been one of the most consistent and heartfelt aspects of The Blacklist. Many fans felt that the finale failed to give Dembe the closure he deserved, leaving his fate unclear. A few fans proposed a more emotional farewell or a deeper exploration of his character’s journey.
Fan Idea:
A fan-favorite alternative ending suggested that Dembe would have taken a more prominent role in the finale, either by taking down a final adversary or ensuring Red’s legacy lived on in some way. This would have provided more emotional depth and closure for Dembe’s character.
How Red’s Legacy Could Have Been Preserved in a Better Ending
Another common theme in fan reactions was the desire for Red’s legacy to be preserved. Instead of the ambiguous conclusion, many felt that Red’s actions should have had a more lasting impact, ensuring his role in the world was cemented in a way that felt true to his character’s ambitions.
Fan Idea:
Some fans envisioned a conclusion where Red’s legacy lived on through his allies or even Elizabeth, showing how his influence affected the world long after his departure. This would have added depth to the finale and allowed Red’s story to continue beyond his physical presence on the show.
The Bull Twist: Was It Worth It?
The Bull Twist was undoubtedly one of the most controversial decisions in The Blacklist finale. While some fans appreciated the boldness of the twist, others felt it was a cheap way to inject drama without delivering real substance.
Fan Idea:
Fans who disliked the twist often suggested that the finale should have focused more on the emotional and personal stakes of the characters rather than relying on a twist to shock the audience. A more grounded, character-driven conclusion would have provided the necessary payoff for fans who invested in the series for its complexity and human drama.
Conclusion: Was Red’s Ending Satisfying?
In the end, The Blacklist finale left fans divided. The Bull Twist sparked endless debates, and while some appreciated the boldness of the decision, others felt it did Red’s character a disservice. Fans took to social media to share their thoughts on what could have been, offering alternative endings that would have provided a more satisfying conclusion.
While Red’s fate may never be fully agreed upon, one thing is clear: his story was a driving force for The Blacklist, and fans will continue to discuss what could have been for years to come. Whether you loved or hated the finale, there’s no denying that the Blacklist will go down in history as one of TV’s most memorable shows.
FAQs
1. Why did fans dislike the Bull Twist in the Blacklist finale?
Fans disliked the twist because it left too many unanswered questions and undermined the character development of Red. It raised more questions than it answered, leading to frustration.
2. What do fans think should have happened to Red in the finale?
Many fans suggested a clearer reveal of Red’s identity, a heroic sacrifice, or more closure with key characters like Elizabeth and Dembe.
3. How did fans react to Elizabeth Keen’s storyline in the finale?
Many fans felt that Elizabeth’s arc was left unresolved, and they wanted a stronger emotional conclusion for her character.
4. Was the Bull Twist necessary for The Blacklist?
While some fans appreciated the boldness of the twist, many felt it was unnecessary and detracted from the emotional and narrative strength of the finale.
5. Will Red’s legacy be remembered in the show’s universe?
Some fans hope that Red’s legacy will live on, either through his allies or Elizabeth, continuing to influence the world even after his departure.
