32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

As a long-time fan of The Blacklist, I can’t help but reflect on the enigmatic character of Raymond Reddington and the intrigue he brought to my television screen for over a decade. I’ve spent countless hours pondering the number of hours Red spent in dark rooms, waiting patiently for his targets to return home. It’s a testament to his dedication and cunning, though it makes me wonder if he ever grew tired of the monotony or if he brought along a good book to pass the time.


The following contains spoilers for The Blacklist.

An intriguing aspect of the streaming age is the ability to immerse oneself in an entire TV show by watching all its episodes back-to-back. When you select a series with ten seasons, prepare for a significant time commitment. Over the past few months, I found myself engrossed in every episode of “The Blacklist,” resulting in a substantial investment of my leisure hours.

I had previously seen the initial seasons of “The Blacklist,” but then lost interest. Lately, I made up my mind to go back and finish watching from the start. It’s quite an exhilarating journey. This is what ran through my thoughts during my viewing experience.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

The First Scene Of The Pilot Is One Of The Best Television Openings Ever

If a fresh TV series fails to capture your attention right from the start, you might not return for future episodes. For instance, “The Blacklist” introduces its audience in an engaging way: James Spader’s character, Raymond Reddington, nonchalantly enters the FBI headquarters, announces his name, and is then shocked into submission before they even recognize that they have apprehended one of their most elusive fugitives.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

I Wish I Looked As Good In A Suit As Raymond Reddington

James Spader exudes enjoyment whenever he portrays Raymond Reddington on screen, but what truly captivates me is his impeccable wardrobe. I’m a fan of smart three-piece suits, and so is Red. However, I can only dream of carrying off that stylish image as elegantly as him.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

Addressing The “Father” Question Early In Season 1 Is Brilliant

The relationship between Raymond Reddington and Elizabeth Keen is what The Blacklist is all about. It’s clear that she means something to him, and since we learn early on that Liz was adopted, the idea that Red might be her dad is an obvious conclusion to draw. But midway through Season 1, he says that’s not true. He’s not lying. The show could have left this question open longer, but addressing it makes the mystery much more interesting by taking the obvious answer off the table.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

Wow, She Seriously Shot The Attorney General In The Head!

In the intriguing TV series “The Blacklist,” there are numerous instances where the storyline takes an unexpected turn. A notable example occurs at the end of Season 2. Faced with a moral dilemma, Liz confronts the U.S. Attorney General, who is part of the shadowy “Cabal.” She recognizes his villainous nature and understands she cannot provide enough evidence for his arrest. With two unappealing options – taking a life or being arrested and potentially facing death – one would expect our protagonist to hesitate before resorting to violence. However, Liz surprises us by making an unexpected decision.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

Everytime You Start To Like Red, The Blacklist Reminds You He’s A Monster

Raymond Reddington, a captivating criminal figure, effortlessly draws the audience’s affection. With his carefree demeanor and disregard for conventional norms, he adds an element of enjoyment to the narrative. However, it is crucial to remember that beneath this charming exterior lies a ruthless individual. Red operates by a personal set of principles, preventing him from transgressing certain boundaries in his illicit activities. Nevertheless, The Blacklist doesn’t mince words – Red is not a kind-hearted soul. He has taken countless lives, including those who have followed his orders unquestioningly, for merely crossing him.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

The Blacklist Totally Stole A Plot Detail From L.A. Confidential

As a dedicated gamer, I’ve seen my fair share of twists and turns in various storylines. In Season 3 of “The Blacklist,” I couldn’t believe it when Agent Ressler uncovered the shocking truth about Laurel Hitchens. It turned out she was part of this secret society called “The Cabal.” Why, you ask? Because she knew the name of a notorious cop named Tommy Markin – a man who took the life of my beloved on-screen father.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

The Blacklist Is A Puzzle And The Pieces Fit Together Surprisingly Well

The backstory of Raymond Reddington on “The Blacklist” may not have been entirely planned out from the start or may have evolved as the series progressed. What is certain, however, is that the show meticulously ensured that every detail presented fit seamlessly into the larger narrative. While there are minor inconsistencies, nothing fundamentally contradicts previous events and no major changes were made retroactively to resolve them. Given the length of the show, with over 200 episodes, this level of continuity is noteworthy.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

Are Any Of Red’s Stories Actually True?

Raymond Reddington is a central figure on “The Blacklist,” known for his extensive exploits. However, what he accomplishes on the show appears to be only a fraction of the vast experiences he describes in the numerous anecdotes he shares throughout the series. These tales suggest that Reddington has traveled extensively and engaged in a myriad of adventures, leaving one to wonder if there is any truth to his stories. Given Reddington’s reputation for deceit, it’s essential to question the veracity of these accounts.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

One Line Of Dialogue Sums Up The Entire Show

In their initial encounter, Raymond Reddington cautions FBI agent Elizabeth Keen against trusting him since he has a criminal background and deceit is part of a criminal’s nature. However, in an intriguing statement that later proved to be significant, he reveals, “I’m a liar.” The authenticity of his words was uncertain then, but in hindsight, it’s a remarkable revelation.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

Red’s Pilot Is An Amazing Cameo

Fun fact: James Spader’s “Pretty in Pink” costar and Brat Pack member Andrew McCarthy directed an impressive 26 episodes of “The Blacklist” throughout its ten-year span. In one of the series’ last installments, McCarthy made a notable appearance as Edward, the pilot of Red’s private jet.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

The Blacklist Does A Fantastic Job Of Keeping The Story Moving

A mystery-driven show such as “The Blacklist” can grow tiring if viewers aren’t provided with sufficient answers. Fortunately, this series is adept at keeping the plot in motion. Rarely does a query remain unanswered beyond a couple of episodes. However, the resolution often sparks another question, creating an engaging and intriguing narrative flow. The pacing is particularly effective for binge-watching sessions.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

Liz & Tom Win The Award For The Strangest Relationship Ever

I’ve had my fair share of unexpected twists and turns in relationships, but falling in love with a spy who was sent to monitor me, only to discover his true identity, shoot him in self-defense, kidnap him, and then develop feelings for him again, is an experience unlike any other. It’s not something I would wish upon anyone, but looking back, it has shaped my life in ways I never could have imagined.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

Mr. Kaplan Has An Incredible Story Inside The Blacklist

Among the intriguing secondary characters on “The Blacklist,” I am particularly drawn to Mr. Kaplan. Her background is rich and complex, with depth equal to Red’s own, and she consistently adds new layers as the series progresses. At times, she even assumes the role of the primary adversary, making her a captivating and pitiful antagonist on the show.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

Why Did The Blacklist Assume Everybody Watched The Spinoff?

I was surprised to remember t Redemption.” In this spin-off, significant disclosures occur that aren’t mentioned in the primary series. For a moment, I believed I had skipped an episode.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

Nobody Is Safe On The Blacklist

Many key characters from The Blacklist make it through the entire series, but unexpected demises occur frequently. Some major figures on the show meet their end in coffins.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

Why Doesn’t Liz Get Any Better At Being A Field Agent?

Elizabeth Keen initially received training as an FBI profiler, intending to spend most of her career behind a desk. However, despite this background, she frequently finds herself in rough situations involving physical confrontations with suspects throughout the eight-season series. One might assume that after several years of experience, she would have improved her skills in handling such encounters.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

The Blacklist Bones Reveal Is An Epic Cliffhanger, Even Though I Called It

As a long-time fan of crime dramas and thrillers, I have seen my fair share of twists and turns that leave audiences reeling. But none have ever left me as stunned as the revelation of Red’s true identity on that show. I had my theories, my educated guesses based on clues dropped throughout the series. Yet, when the moment finally arrived, it felt like a punch to the gut.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

What Did Naomi Hyland Know?

In Season 2, we are introduced to Naomi Hyland, who is Raymond Redington’s former spouse. Although the series eventually unveils Red’s true identity, it doesn’t clearly explain Naomi’s role, what she knew, or why she collaborated with the deception.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

What Happened To The Gold?

In the final stages of “The Blacklist,” I came across the enigmatic figure of Robert Vesco, a mastermind of deception and Raymond Reddington’s earliest mentor. Our first encounter with Vesco involves him skillfully swindling Red out of his fair share of the millions we had amassed through our joint gold heist. However, when we next cross paths with him, Red is determined to reclaim what was rightfully his. Yet, despite his persistence, he never manages to receive his due from Vesco. The outcome of their financial disputes remains uncertain.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

Dembe Is The True Hero Of The Blacklist

In “The Blacklist,” Red and Liz are the primary characters, with Reddington serving as the protagonist undergoing significant development. However, it is Dembe Zuma who embodies the heroic role. Unwaveringly devoted, Dembe continually strives to uphold justice, even if that means bending the rules at times.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

By Season 6 They Were Out Of Villain Names Weren’t They?

In “The Blacklist,” the premise is that the criminals pursued by the task force are so clandestine, the FBI isn’t even aware of their existence. Consequently, they go by nicknames. Initially, these monikers were intriguing, such as The Kingmaker, Lord Baltimore, and The Apothecary. However, as the series progressed, it seemed that creative nickname ideas had run dry. We ended up with less engaging names like The Pawnbrokers, The Hawalander, and The Fribourg Confidence.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

Redding Representing Himself Is Giving Me Boston Legal Vibes

In Season 6, Red is apprehended and faces a treason trial. Given his background, this development feels apt as James Spader previously starred as lawyer Alan Shore in two shows, “The Practice” and “Boston Legal,” for much of the previous decade. He infuses these courtroom scenes with similar intensity, making them utterly captivating.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

Ressler’s Backstory Makes So Much Sense

Agent Ressler serves as the straight-shooting, rule-abiding member of the task force. His dedication to following the law makes him an indispensable team player for any police unit. However, just like his colleagues, the distinction between right and wrong becomes less clear-cut throughout the series for Ressler as well. This archetype may be a common trope, but his background sheds light on why he’s particularly prone to bending the rules when circumstances call for it. In truth, Ressler didn’t always uphold moral standards as rigidly as he does now.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

The Animated Episode Was A Necessary Band-Aid, But Finishing It Later Would Have Been Nice

As a dedicated gamer and avid fan of “The Blacklist,” I was looking forward to the upcoming episodes when suddenly, life took an unexpected turn with the arrival of a global pandemic. The show was only halfway through filming the season finale, leaving us all in suspense. In a race against time, they turned to a pre-vis animation house for help, filling in the gaps and allowing the episode to serve as a season ender.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

Liz Going Full Supervillain In Season 8 Is Frustrating, But It’s In Character

As a dedicated gamer following the storyline of Season 8, I must admit, things have taken an unexpected turn. It seems that our beloved character, Liz, has become the antagonist for the majority of this season. Initially, it’s disheartening to see one of the show’s heroes act so impulsively and stubbornly refuse to consider alternative viewpoints when she slides into the dark side. But let’s be real, hasn’t Liz always been a bit unpredictable and given to hasty decisions based on her emotions? Despite finding it frustrating to watch her make some questionable choices, it all feels fitting for her character.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

The Death Of Glen Was Ridiculous And Beautiful

Among all the colleagues Red interacts with on the show, Glen, an exceptional DMV supervisor and tracker, stands out as one of the most impressive. Sadly, the real-life actor portraying Glen, Clark Middleton, tragically passed away during filming. Instead of eliminating the character, The Blacklist chooses to depict Glen’s demise due to the same West Nile Virus that claimed the actor. This heartfelt tribute adds depth and a touch of the absurd, much like Glen himself.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

How Much Of Raymond Reddington’s Life Has He Spent Sitting In Dark Rooms Waiting For People To Get Home?

For the past decade, I’ve found myself in awe of Raymond Reddington’s intriguing habit. Time and again, as I return home, there he is, comfortably seated in my living room. It’s not likely that he knew my exact arrival time and planned it accordingly; instead, I believe Reddington spent countless hours, even days, waiting for me in those rooms. What does he do during this lengthy wait? Perhaps he reads a book or works on a crossword puzzle to pass the time.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

The Reddington Reveal Is A Work Of Art

The uncertainty among some viewers about the true identity of Raymond Reddington on “The Blacklist” is testament to the show’s skillful storytelling. While the answer is provided, no clear confirmation is given. Those who are attentive and open to the clues will find it rewarding.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

Would Season 8 Have Ended Differently If There Hadn’t Been A Season 9?

The finale of Season 8 on “The Blacklist” seems like a definitive conclusion in several aspects. Yet, it leaves us with an unresolved cliffhanger and a rather disappointing feeling for fans who have become attached to the characters. It’s intriguing to ponder if this ending would have been the same if the show hadn’t been granted another season.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

Season 9 And 10 Feel Like The Show Went Off The Air For A Decade, Even When You Binge Watch It

In the ninth season of The Blacklist, there is a time jump of two years since the conclusion of the eighth season. While watching back-to-back episodes during a binge, you may find that the last two seasons seem remarkably distinct from what came before. Almost as if the series underwent a significant reboot about a decade later.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

Aram Deserved A Better Send Off

Aram Mojtabai initially joins the task force with a limited role, but his contributions grow significantly, making him an indispensable team member and a delightful character. His story takes an atypical turn as he survives the series, although his departure from the show in the end of Season 9 is understated. Aram chooses to exit the scene, but reappears briefly in the premiere of Season 10, leaving viewers with a glimmer of hope that he might return. However, this hope fades as Aram never makes a comeback.

32 Random Thoughts I Had While Watching All 10 Seasons Of The Blacklist

The Ending Is Anti-Climactic, But I’m Not Sure Any Ending Would Have Been Enough

Every television series comes to an end at some point, and after ten seasons, so does “The Blacklist.” The storyline reaches a conclusive end, providing closure for the audience. However, Reddington’s ending may leave some viewers feeling disappointed or frustrated. It’s challenging to imagine how such an extensive series could have ended pleasantly for everyone.

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2024-07-19 18:10