You’re right to ask about Lincoln’s death in The 100. It’s one of the most impactful and controversial moments in the show. This article will provide the exact episode and context of his death, sparing no detail.
Understanding the build-up and the fallout is crucial to grasping why his death fundamentally changed the show’s trajectory. When does Lincoln die in The 100, and exactly what happened and why it matters.
We’ll cover not just the “when” but the “why” and “what happened next.” His character arc, from a feared Grounder to a bridge between two peoples, carries a lot of emotional weight.
The Exact Episode: Pinpointing Lincoln’s Final Scene
Lincoln dies in Season 3, Episode 9, titled ‘Stealing Fire’.
The setting is outside the Arkadia gates, in the mud and rain. It creates a bleak and memorable visual.
Chancellor Pike executes him with a single gunshot to the head. But not before Lincoln ensures the other Grounders are safe.
His last words, ‘May we meet again’ (in Trigedasleng: ‘Mebi oso na hit choda op nodotaim’), are spoken to Octavia, who watches from a distance.
This event happens as a direct result of Pike’s hardline, anti-Grounder policies within Arkadia.
When does lincoln die in the 100? It’s in this very episode, which aired on March 31, 2016.
Understanding these details can help you place the event in the broader context of the show’s narrative.
A Point of No Return: The Events That Sealed Lincoln’s Fate
The political climate in Arkadia was tense, to say the least. Charles Pike’s election as Chancellor on an anti-Grounder platform set the stage for a series of devastating events.
Pike wasted no time in making his mark. He ordered the massacre of a Grounder army sent to protect Arkadia. This act created an irreparable rift between the two groups.
It was a brutal and calculated move that left no room for reconciliation.
Lincoln, along with other Grounders, was imprisoned inside Arkadia. To Pike’s regime, they were seen as enemies. The situation was dire, and the tension was palpable.
Kane, Sinclair, and others orchestrated a failed escape plan. It was a desperate attempt to free the captured Grounders. But it didn’t go as planned.
Lincoln, in a moment of selflessness, surrendered to save them. He knew the stakes were high. when does lincoln die in the 100
When does lincoln die in the 100, and it wasn’t a random act of violence. It was a calculated political execution by Pike.
Pike wanted to make a statement and eliminate a symbol of Skaikru-Grounder cooperation. Lincoln’s death was a message to all who dared to bridge the gap between the two sides.
Lincoln’s sacrifice was profound. He willingly gave himself up to ensure the other captured Grounders could receive medical attention. His actions also saved his allies like Kane from execution.
His bravery and selflessness are a testament to his character and the value of unity.
The Aftermath: How One Death Ignited a War and Forged a Warrior

When Lincoln dies in The 100, it’s not just a character exit. It’s a pivotal moment that reshapes the entire series. Octavia Blake’s transformation is the most significant consequence.
Witnessing Lincoln’s death was the catalyst for her journey into becoming ‘Skairipa’ (Death from Above) and later, the ruthless ‘Blodreina’ (Red Queen).
This event shattered any remaining hope for a peaceful resolution between Skaikru and the Grounders under Pike’s rule. The immediate impact on the plot was intense. It fueled the internal civil war within Arkadia, pitting Kane and his followers against Pike’s faction.
Bellamy’s guilt for his initial support of Pike was palpable. Clarke struggled to maintain peace, but the situation was spiraling out of control. This event served as a dark turning point for Season 3.
The central conflict shifted from survival against the elements to a war against themselves.
How does this play out in the future? I predict that Octavia’s actions and motivations will continue to be driven by Lincoln’s death. Her quest for power and revenge might lead to even more internal conflicts.
The repercussions of his death are felt for seasons to come, particularly through Octavia’s relentless pursuit of justice and dominance.
In the end, Lincoln’s death wasn’t just a tragic loss. It was the spark that ignited a chain reaction, changing the course of the show and the lives of its characters forever.
Behind the Scenes: The Real-World Reason for Lincoln’s Departure
The departure of Lincoln from The 100 stirred significant fan speculation and controversy. Lincoln dies in the 100 during a particularly intense and emotional episode, leaving many viewers questioning the narrative choice.
However, the real-world reason for Lincoln’s exit lies with the actor, Ricky Whittle, who chose to leave the show. Whittle publicly cited creative differences and a feeling that his character’s storyline was being diminished as key factors in his decision.
Adding to this, Whittle had been cast as the lead in another show, American Gods, which further influenced his choice to move on. While the in-universe reasons for his death were powerful and impactful, understanding the behind-the-scenes context provides a fuller picture of why this fan-favorite character was written off the show.


Wesley Phamantons contributed to the development of LWMF Crafts by supporting the growth of its creative content and helping shape the platform’s approach to showcasing crafting techniques and artistic trends. Through collaborative efforts and attention to detail, Phamantons played a role in strengthening the project’s vision of inspiring creators and sharing practical crafting insights.