'Sleepy Hollow'- A Retrospect of Season 3, Believe In Ichabbie

From the beginning of season three, Sleepy Hollow's new showrunner, Clifton Campbell, hit the ground running with a total reboot after fans rose up in protest over the lack of Ichabod and Abbie in season two. With a few new faces and wardrobe lift for both Ichabod Crane (Tom Mison) and Abbie Mills (Nicole Beharie), he has successfully conjured season one nostalgia, firmly placing Team Witness together, trying define their 'relationship.  Yes, I said the 'R' word!

All season long chatter among Sleepyheads has been, "Why can't Abbie have a real relationship, while Ichabod has two (or three if you count Abbie in the mix)? Why aren't we seeing what happened with Reynolds (Lance Gross) and Abbie on screen in a flashback, instead of just hearing about it? Why aren't they writing Ichabod and Abbie as a couple because it's been two and a half years?" Honestly, while I do validate some of the complaints to a certain extent, I was hoping that since the show had clearly reset itself with amazing new cast members, a cohesive, intriguing chapter in the Sleepy Hollow saga and new baddie, Sleepyheads would give it a fighting chance.  Still, many continue to harbor ill will and some fans chose to abandon ship, believing there would be no chance of Ichabbie (smush word for Ichabod and Abbie).

As most of you know, I'm definitely in 'Team Ichabbie's' court, swooning over every little touch, look and sideways glance!  All season long TPTB have said Ichabod and Abbie work better as "just partners" or their relationship is "platonic".  I kept asking myself, "Am I reading too much into all the Ichabbie Moments over the past two and a half seasons? And is it possible my Ichabbie shipping heart is just seeing what I want to see?"  Being a fan of soap operas since I was 14 years old, I've learned to be patient for favorite couples to get together, as each new pairing went through months of obstacles, misunderstandings and family drama before even coming close to admitting how they feel. Hell, it took Days of Our Lives Bo and Hope over a year and a half to finally make their relationship "official".

Unfortunately the times of stringing fans along for several seasons is no longer conducive.  Now our attention spans have dwindled down so much that if a show doesn't hook the audience right away, it's practically hitting the cutting room floor with a loud boom! Some of the best online serials are only 15-20 minutes in length and even at that, some snicker, "Why should we continue watching?" My point is, I think we've seen Ichabod and Abbie play dodge ball for two and a half years.  It's time to stoke the fire...and burn up our screens!

But I digress.  Let's "memory lane it" as Jenny says and take a look at season three thus far...

We begin the season with Ichabod in the slammer, orange uniform and all, due to his attempt to smuggle an ancient tablet he found in his family's crypt in Scotland.  Abbie is now an FBI Agent on the fast track to what she believes is her new mission, while her sister Jenny is back into the thick of things with Joe Corbin, the late Sheriff Corbin's son.

After Ichabod summons Abbie to bail him out of his predicament, we learn he's been MIA for nine months with no contact!  Really? I'm still finding it hard to believe.  They've been glued to the hip ever since he rose from the grave and Abbie is literally the only friend he has (minus Jenny) in the world! I don't buy this "it became a habit" scenario.  I mean we've seen him texting Zoe (I'll get into that later) twenty times an hour!  Can you feel my blood starting to bubble?  Okay.  I'm back to my senses.

Ichabod also informs Abbie that the energy in Katrina's (Katia Winter) necklace has been drained.  He believes something has happened to Abraham Van Brundt (Neil Jackson).  He further relays the reason this tablet is so vital to their "Mission" as Witnesses is because it reads, "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow".  Abbie laughs and then proceeds to discredit this notion, sure Ichabod is just looking for something to latch on to since losing his family.  Needless to say, although reluctant to don her 'Team Witness' cap, both realize evil has once again returned to Sleepy Hollow.

Little do they realize the magnitude of that statement.

PANDORA AND THE HIDDEN ONE

The season literally begins with Pandora, played brilliantly by Shanynn Sossamon, capturing the Headless Horseman (aka) Abraham Van Brundt in her little box o' horrors.  She has a plan to bring forth her boyfriend, a deity from Ancient Egypt named Etu Illue (Peter Mensah).

*Side note: In Ancient Egypt, Amun-Ra is known as 'The Hidden One'.  I have yet to find a deity worshipped named Etu Illue.

Ichabod and Abbie deduce that this particular Pandora, is not derived from Greek Mythology, but is the Sumerian version of the first woman created by the Gods. In Sumerian lore, Pandora is called 'Inanna', who is sent to the "inferior world" aka Earth.  In Sumarian Mythology, the Anunnaki were good and evil God and Goddesses sent to Earth to begin the human race.  They created bloodlines.  If you'll recall in "Novus Ordo Seclorum" Pandora tells Abbie that she and Ichabod can join the 'new world of the ages' because of their linage.

This has been one of my biggest questions- how did they become Witnesses, who knew and are they reincarnated each generation? If you recall in Magnum Opus Abbie saw one of her ancestors turned to stone by the Gorgon! Was she a Witness lured there to her death?  I think we'll finally learn exactly why Ichabod and Abbie were chosen as Witnesses in the second half of the season. 

On Sleepy Hollow, in order to punch a hole into this realm, Pandora grows a tree by which a single flower blooms upon extracting a fear from the Witnesses. She proceeds to summon creatures from her box, but not just any entities, very specific ones that illicit variations of certain types of fear. Although Pandora disappears into the tree, which is believed to be a portal to the Underworld, she returns with her boyfriend, Etu Illue.  But where did she snatch him from? Was he really in the Underworld?

"I have waited millennia for this moment", she confesses, gently unwrapping her mummified beau.

"What have they done to my world", he complains.  "Entire species gone forever. 

Their essence only echoes.  This foulness, heat. Even the water is tainted."

"The mortals who infest this world, care nothing of its beauty. Our presence has been 

sorely missed my love", Pandora sadly informs.

Did Pandora say she's been waiting over a thousand years to return and take over Earth? Later Etu Illue says they'd made a plan thousands of years ago.  Question is, where did they meet? How did they hatch this plan, how do they intend to "bend this world to our will again" and what do the two Witnesses have to do with all of it?  To her boyfriends dismay, he learns there are two Witnesses.

"Witnesses? They still exist to plague us?" 

Pandora allays his fears, "And they prove useful, as they did in the past." 

What lies ahead? Only our evil geniuses know!  My mind has been swirling with more than one possible theory.  It all remains to be seen.

JENNY AND JOE

Meanwhile, Jenny (Lyndie Greenwood) and Joe Corbin (Zach Appelman) are amidst their own storyline involving The Shard of Anubis, a rock-like piece of metal. In the Archives Jenny finds the rock, recalling that Sheriff Corbin (Clancy Brown) sent her for the item years ago, though she has no idea exactly why.  This prompts her to do a little research, which leads her to a website about Ancient Egypt.  Before she can look into it any further, she receives a call from Joe that her camper is ransacked.  Although Jenny is reluctant to bring Joe into Team Witness, after pleading his case she agrees.

However, things go from bad to worse when Joe is kidnapped by Randall (Anthony K. Hyatt), an old fencing buddy Jenny knew.  hy is this Shard so important now?  After Jenny tries to take down Randall, unfortunately she has no choice but to hand the rock over.

Enter Sophie Foster (Jessica Camacho), who appears to be working for Atticus Nevin (Bill Irwin), a man Joe recognizes as his father's friend, a notorious artifacts thief.  Both are alarmed by this development, especially after Jenny realizes Sophie is using her moves a la Corbin! They start to question who Corbin really was? Could he have been involved in a stolen artifact ring? Jenny and Joe commensurate, disturbed by the revelation.  Ultimately they track down the stone and take it from Nevins. Though Jenny believes the stone disintegrated, something more sinister occurred-- it is absorbed into her body making her a human "eye"!

*A side note- one of the big drops is when Sophie blows her cover and announces she's an FBI Agent, working under Reynold's command!  Is our undercover agent Sophie Foster a relative the Mills sisters? As I recall (please don't quote me on this), Foster was listed on the family tree at the end of Sanctuary, 01x09. (Shout out to Michelle Eddington for pointing this out).

WHAT IS THE SHARD?

According Ichabod, the Shard is actually a binding stone with mystical energy, meant for a higher being to absorb.  He recalls Paul Revere's (Paul Burke) protege was infected by one and quickly spun in a downward spiral.  Knowing the binding stone can take out a small village, the boy sacrifices himself in a field, miles away from civilization.  Later, Revere retrieves the stone using the staff that originally held it.  Realizing how dangerous the stone is, Revere creates the outer casing to snuff out its mystical powers.  Question is, why did Sheriff Corbin want Jenny to procure it for him?  Was he really working with Nevins?  The verdict is still out on that one!

THE BETSY ROSS & ZOE FACTOR

Even before filming actually started, fans were up in arms learning that Twilight star Nikki Reed was tapped to play the buxom, sexy, George Washington spy, Betsy Ross.  Some Sleepyheads touted her addition to the cast would culminate in a version of "Mr. & Mrs. Smith", once again sidelining Abbie as the lead. Personally I never saw it was going to be like that at all and who cares if he had a little something, something on the side with her?  They're in 1774!  While I admit the timeline of events are a little murky, I find it plausible given the fact that the real Betsy Ross had been married three times and every hubby died prematurely!  (Hmmm....possible Twistory?)


If Besty Ross wasn't enough to keep the chatter on social media at a fever pitch, the Caroline-esq goody-two-shoes Zoe Corinth (Maya Kazan) seemingly pursuing Ichabod, has been!  Supposedly working for the Historical Society to list buildings of historic significance, she immediately bonded with Ichabod, using her love and knowledge of the past to firmly place her front and center.  Yes I say #No2CranZoe, but I feel she serves a greater purpose.


The thing that has nagged me the most is what connection do Betsy Ross and Zoe Corinth have?  Is there a connection or is it just a coincidence Zoe dressed up like a 'G' rated Betsy Ross for Halloween?  I say there are never coincidences! Also, John Adams has been dropped several times throughout these eight episodes. How does he fit into the mix? Here are a few possible theories...

What if Zoe is actually a descendant of John Adams, assigned to keep her eyes on Crane? Let's face it, who wouldn't want that job? Get to the back of the line ladies, I'm first! LOL I also believe it's no coincidence that Ichabod happened to don a painstakingly created embroidered vest like John Adams wore.  My question is how did Zoe know immediately who he was and why is she trying to emulate Betsy? And here's another morsel for you to chew on...what if Zoe is actually Pandora in disguise?  I find it very interesting that whenever Pandora is predominantly in the episode, Zoe is absent and visa-versa.

Why have some of the entities reminded Ichabod of his escapades with Betsy Ross? What's the correlation? Did you notice the flag Betsy sewed was used to wrap the Staff of the Eye? Does the first American flag have a supernaturally charged element sewn within capable of dousing the energy of the binding stone?  If so, where is it?

And is it another coincidence that Zoe is trying to add the church in Dobbs Ferry to the list of Historical sites? Is it the same church Hessians attempted to use the book of black magic King Solomon wrote, capable of summoning 72 demons in episode four of season one, The Lesser Key of Solomon?

Or (yes I'm going way out in left field), what if Zoe is Betsy Ross? We've heard her use several Betsy phrases, the one that immediately comes to mind is "just go with it".  It is Sleepy Hollow after all, so it's not beyond the realm of possibility.  Is your head spinning now?  Welcome to my insane 'World of Sleepy Hollow'! So many questions, so few answers!

ABBIE, ICHABOD AND ZOE

If the fact that saccharine sweet Zoe all up in Ichabod's face didn't make you ponder her real purpose, than maybe the fact that Abbie has consistently pushed Ichabod towards Zoe might! Can I just say WTH? I completely understand that Abbie might be guarded after Ichabod seemingly ditched her for nine months, but it's like she never had feelings for him at all! In contrast, there have been moments thus far where you can see what he feels for "Leftenent", happy to be "back in the saddle", as Joe so aptly pointed out.

Discussions throughout social media have sparked about why there has been a bit of a pull back

between Ichabod and Abbie? The scene that really got Sleepyheads in a frenzy was in "The Sisters Mills", when Abbie is in the hospital and Ichabod kept his feelings in check.  From my perspective, I feel like he's a soldier, having to go back into battle.  He's learned how to distance his emotions having lost so many friends.  I actually thought he looked like he was going to cry, then steadies himself. He gives another sorrowful glance before he leaves that tugs at the heartstrings.

COMPLICATIONS OF THE HEART

I think I can safely say that I speak on behalf of every Sleepyhead, why hasn't Abbie told Ichabod how much it hurt her when he stopped communicating with her?  There was a small exchange at the jail where she does put him on the spot, but it's quickly diffused by an apology and swept under the proverbial rug.

The fact is she completely trusted him, more than any man besides the late Sheriff Corbin, so a small discussion in general population at the jail doesn't really depict how upset she was at him.  Maybe we'll see it upon her return? All I know is that if it was me and my best friend, the person I had grown so close to suddenly stopped all communication, I'd be pissed! We need a full on, hash out scene where it all comes out.  I love how strong Abbie is, but she is always helping others deal with stuff. She's sort of the "go to" gal, who makes everyone else happy.  But what about herself? We need to see her taken care of for a change.

Due to the aforementioned, I feel this is why we've seen the biggest pull back from Abbie.  Of course it's been fun to see "domestic Ichabbie", something fans hoped for and write about in Sleepy Fan Fiction.  One of my favorite scenes is in "Whispers In the Dark", when Ichabod sings a shanty while cleaning, then is caught looking at Leftenant's "unmentionables", before nearly setting the kitchen on fire!  These are the moments that Tom Mison and Nicole Beharie shine. I keep wondering what other things have they learned about each other that they "cannot unknow"? I'm waiting for the shower moment when either he walks in on her or she walks in on him taking a bath! I can just hear the pandemonium that would ensue!

We've also spoken a lot about why Abbie seems so closed of emotionally. She even tells Ichabod as much in episode eight of season two, Heartless.

"Since when has opening our hearts to new possibilities been a complication", asks Ichabod.  

Abbie gives him a sideways glance, "Since always".  

I think it's safe to say that she has "daddy issues", ever since Papa Mills jumped ship on his family when Abbie was at the tender age of six.  To make matters worse, her mother kills herself and Jenny is taken from her.  These are defining moments in a young child that would cause anyone to build a wall as big as the Great Wall of China!  While I'm no psychologist, it's clear that whenever anything gets even remotely serious, Abbie bails and effectively cuts ties.  In season one we learn she broke things off with Detective Morales using the excuse she was headed for Quantico.  Though she stayed she never went back to him.

Then there's Ichabod.  I don't care what anyone says, the look she gives to Ichabod as she leaves so he can have his date with his "witch wife" in "Pittura Infamante", was heartbreaking.  She even tells him
he doesn't have to go.

The thing about Ichabod and Abbie is that from the moment he awakens in the 21st century, both have this innate trust in each other. I found it incredible that we see the immediate connection between them in the pilot episode, when she tells the tale of what she and her sister saw as kids.  For Abbie, now that we know her a little bit better, it's huge step. And in "Tempus Fugit", here is this woman who apparently knows him from the "year of our Lord, 2015", claiming he's in danger...from his wife! Thank God he was working under General Washington and was Benjamin Franklin's protege or he'd definitely have her committed!  Once again we see that no matter what century they're in, their bond is strong, trust is ever so prevalent.  It's also interesting that when she confesses she's been sort of stalking her father, although Ichabod encourages her to forge some type of relationship, she says it's better to just move on.  This is exactly what she did when Ichabod left.  She went to Quantico to finish her dream of crafting a career in the FBI.

This brings us to Daniel Reynolds.

DANNY, ABBIE AND ICHABOD

Not only was Abbie surprised to see Reynolds back in her life, but Ichabod was clearly dismayed by the development. He didn't waste any time marking his territory so-to-speak, making it appear as though they were together, though Abbie quickly informs they're roommates.  The looks he gives Danny upon "heading home" is priceless. Like he was sizing up his prey!

Not only is Reynolds now Abbie's boss, he's got his sights set on her again. Although he asks Abbie to dinner, after Ichabod nearly dies in "Blood and Fear", she tells Reynolds the only reason their relationship worked at Quantico is because they were equals.  This is not the case any longer. Is that the real issue though? Or could it be that Abbie does have feelings for Ichabod, no matter how complicated?  I find it interesting in the beginning of "Red Lady from Caribee", Ichabod asks Abbie specifically what would happen if she were to date Danny. Abbie tells him it would be complicated but they'd figure it out...but they're not so it's not a problem.  Was Ichabod trying to get a feel for what Abbie thinks about dating and working with someone? The thing we've seen since day one, is that Abbie keeps her feelings very close to her chest, save for a few moments with Ichabod.

So who is Reynolds and why is he heading up the small FBI offices in Sleepy Hollow? As the season unfolds we learn he took it upon himself to take Abbie under his wing and push her throughout her training in Quantico.  But is there another reason he was there? Could he have been sent to mentor her?

Fast forward to "Red Lady of Caribee", when Danny is stung by a tainted bee who plagues its victims with paranoia, then death! Abbie is once again on a thrill-ride with a crazy driver and is horrified when he weaves in and out of traffic, almost causing an accident! Then he questions her integrity. "And who is that damn Crane guy?  He's no historical consultant!"  In a kick ass take down, Abbie subdues an out of control Reynolds and locks him in the supernatural bunker.  While there, he confesses he still has feelings for Abbie, as he reminisces about their time on a private island, a shack on the beach where things became very intimate.

We still have no idea what exactly occured, how things were left. Upon finishing training, she was assigned back to her hometown, while Reynolds was elsewhere.  In her mind, things were done but not in Reynold's heart!  Fans are clamoring for a flashback of this scene!  Will we see it in the last ten episodes of the season?  I hope so! Would be nice to see our girl getting busy with a hottie like Reynolds since we have yet to see her even kiss anyone!

But who is Danny really? I don't buy this supposed stepping stone running Sleepy Hollow FBI offices, "then go large ." Is he one of the participants involved in this "secret war" Benjiman Franklin eluded to in "Tempus Fugit"?  And who did he call after she quit?  What was all the talk of "losing the asset"?  Asset in what way? Does he know she's a Witness?  Could Papa Mills be involved somehow? And when Reynolds makes a trip to D.C. to meet with the FBI Director , he says "there are eyes on this one" and "they're watching her too."  Who?  Could it mean that Reynolds has been assigned to Abbie, just like I think Zoe is assigned to Ichabod?  If that's the case, why wouldn't Reynolds tell Abbie he knows she a Witness?  Who else is watching them?  Watchers perhaps? The Freemasons? I'm anxious to see who knows what and why are they watching our Witnesses because I've never got the feeling anyone knew what they were doing.

Thus far the "Art of War", penned by Joe Webb, is my favorite of the season.

After Joe confides in Ichabod he has feelings for Jenny and is worried about her, Ichabod tells him to "seize control whilst we can. Talk to her."  Then in a highly anticipated moment, Ichabod pretty much admits he's afraid of losing Abbie, to which Joe tells Ichabod to take his own advice. While taking some of Jenny's mystically charged blood for the Berzerka takedown, Joe finally makes his move and it's reciprocated! They are too cute for words!

Then after a victory over the Berzerkas, as Ichabod and Abbie bask in the warmth of their victory, Ichabod finally verbalizes he's afraid of losing her, pause 5 seconds, "to some FBI office in Texas or Los Angles".  I'm glad there was a pause and I feel that Abbie understood what he meant because as usual, not wanting to let anyone in too close, she looks at the ground.  Ultimately she assures him she, Joe and Jenny are not going anywhere. Oh the foreshadowing of  "Come what may."

NOVUS ORDO SECLORUM

Although they locked Jenny in the dungeon, Team Witness soon realize she busted out.  Thanks to Jenny, Pandora is able to bring Etu Illue into the 21st century.  It was tough watching him drain the energy from Jenny, as her screams cut through the air like a million daggers to the heart!

Abbie was more focused than ever and luckily Ichabod was able to decipher the messages Jenny carved into the walls, "Bring me my all-seeing eye so that I be made whole. With divine providence, I will reorder the world as I see fit."  Abbie realizes that the all-seeing eye is on the back of the American dollar bill, "Novus Ordo Seclorum, new order of the ages."  To Etu Illue "the eye" refers to the mystical binding stone.

Before their battle to get Jenny commences, Abbie goes to the FBI and takes the casing for the shard, a "Cranish" book confiscated from Nevins and other equipment out of of the evidence.  When confronted by Reynolds as to her sister's dealings, in a heartbreaking moment, Abbie turns in her badge and gun!

Needless to say our trio make a plan to extract the "eye" from Jenny with the rock and bust her out! As they approach their destination, Ichabod and Abbie take a moment to recall some of the monsters they've slayed over the past couple of years.  It's a cute moment, but what really had Sleepyheads squeeing was when Abbie says,

 "You ready to fight some bad guys Crane?"  

"Indeed", he confirms. 

Then Abbie says something I didn't even catch until our rewatch, "My man."  

Oh the feels! Wonder if that was in the script or if Nicole ad-libbed it? Either way I believe she let her feelings out for that few seconds.  I believe it's a revealing moment as to how she views Ichabod.

The Fall Finale sure stirred up the Sleepyhead fandom, watching Ichabod's "Leftenent" sacrifice herself.  The horror of the moment could be seen on Jenny's face as she lay helplessly, still restrained after her sister's heroics effectively snuffing the eye's mystical energy out of her.  But my heart skipped a beat as Ichabod and Abbie make eye contact, which has been their own little language, each always knowing what the other is saying with no words necessary.  Tears in his eyes he says,

"Don't". But it's too late.  

His Leftenent has, as Pandora foretold, sealed her fate!  She utters one last request,

"Take care of each other", before entering what is believed to be the Underworld! 

A moment later an explosion rocks the very foundation of the lair, catapulting Ichabod back, Pandora's Box shatters! Gripped with fear, Ichabod lumbers up the steps to the tree, hoping the entrance is still there, though he knows the truth deep in his soul...Abbie is gone! The mind-numbing reality of the moment sinks in, "Abbie!"  Ichabod falls to the ground, shocked at the finality of her sacrifice.

I guarantee you there wasn't a dry eye across the country as Ichabod's grief-stricken face fades from the screen.  Fans on social media were in complete and utter shock, trying to compute what they had witnessed (pun intended)!

While some Sleepyheads cried "Ichabbie Bait", most of us knew this will be the defining moment for Ichabod and Abbie.  We are all aware that Ichabod loves Abbie from the pilot episode.  Others felt their connection after he decided to take the 'dream tea' so Abbie wouldn't be alone in season one's 'For the Triumph of Evil'.  No matter when you realized Ichabod and Abbie were destined to be together, one thing I know for certain, is you can't have one without the other. The show is solely about the two Witnesses, together. That's why fans tune in and have been so vocal.

So what's next?  We know that award-winning veteran James McDaniel has been tapped as Papa Mills, whom I believe is in the thick of everything!  Sounds like Jenny will reach out to her father and attempt to illicit his help in finding Abbie. I can't wait to see Jenny's scenes with Papa Mills.  I have a feeling there's going to be some shocking revelations!

With only ten episodes left, if the first half of the season has you enthralled, you ain't seen nothin' yet! Strap yourselves in, hold on for dear life and enjoy the ride!

Sleepy Hollow returns February 5, 2016, Fridays at 8:00 p.m. on FOX!

Missing the show?  Last week Sleepyheads launched '12 Weeks of Sleepy Hollow', our new Friday night addiction.  Join us every #SleepyFriday as we rewatch episodes voted by fans!  Vote now on the episode we'll watch December 11, at 8:00 p.m ET. on Sleepy Hollow Addicts website.  Voting ends December 9 at midnight and announcement will be made December 10.  Then stick around for our 'Hollow Hangout' with a panel of Sleepyheads to chat about the rewatch, as well as contemplate, theorize and gush about the World of Sleepy Hollow!

*Be sure to watch the #HollowHangout, Friday December 11 at 9p ET to find how what #FondleInTheForest is and how you can win a cool prize!

Follow the Sleepy Hollow panel for the latest news, interviews and talk 

around the Sleepyhead fandom:

Correction: Linda Houston @gentlegale, Deb McCue @DeborahMcCue2

Sleepy Hollow: S3 Recap- Episodes 1-8

Sleepy Hollow is back on track! It's been an amazing ride thus far- here are the highlights of S3 thus far.  Sleepy Hollow returns Feb 5, moving to Fridays at 8p on FOX! Join us for #12WeeksofSleepyHollow' every Friday beginning Dec. 4 at 8pET for a #HollowHangout on #GoogleHangout and #SleepyRewatch, episodes chosen by #Sleepyheads! Voting begins Dec. 1 on sleepyhollowaddicts.com.  We will watch pilot episode Dec. 4.  Be sure to follow @SleepyAddicts for the latest in news within the fandom and interviews from the cast!  Go to sleepyhollowaddicts.com for exclusive videos by #SHA and interviews with the cast!

Sleepy Hollow Fall Finale- Is "The Hidden One" Ancient Egyptian God, Amun-Ra

We are only three days, seven hours and forty-five minutes away from the Fall Finale of Sleepy Hollow.  This season has seen shake ups across social media within the Sleepyhead fandom, with some criticizing the writers for lack of Ichabbie Love (smush name for Ichabod and Abbie).  However things change quickly on 'The  Hollow'!

Making his writing debut with "Art of War", Joe Webb delivered a heart-stopping, action-packed episode that Sleepyheads are still talking about! 

A talk between Ichabod and Joe about our Mills Sisters (yes, Ichabod did motion towards Abbie), a JenJoe kiss, and Miss Jenny on the brink of death! Sleepyheads have hungered for scenes like these, just a little glimmer of what may come next!  Some fans still harbor ill will after a very tumultuous season two that had fans turning off their televisions in droves. For those of us who have stuck it out and fans who stopped watching, I have a message for you...Sleepy Hollow is once again Must See TV!

Sleepyheads took to twitter to share their favorite moments from the episode. Here are just a few:

AicyIA@MissIVY_League (T-Shirt Raffle Winner!) “my favorite is Abbie taking care of Jenny “just like old times” that sisterly bond will never break.” 

Eboni Jaunita Goran@Eboni73 “When Crane told Abbie he was scared for losing her.”

Ang Ichabbie-XFiles@angellagouve “my moment. The way Joe and Ichabod reveal Their feelings for Their partners. Much is said, without saying almost nothing!”

This season opened with Pandora (Shanynn Sossaman), literally trapping the Headless Horseman, (aka) Abraham Van Brundt (Neil Jackson), in her little black box of evil.  Since then, Pandora has conjured several baddies that Ichabod (Tom Mison) and Abbie (Nicole Beharie) defeated including a Yao Quai, a Wraith, a Ripper, an Abyzou (tooth fairy from Hell), General Howe and his army of the walking dead army, and the Red Lady from Caribee who wreaked havoc with her deadly swarm of bees!  However, there is a reason Pandora has chosen these specific entities- to open a portal to descend into the Underworld and bring forth her love, “The Hidden One”. This deity is believed to have created itself (per Ancient Egyptian mythology) is also known as Amun-Ra (Peter Mensah), the Sun God of Ancient Egypt.

So who exactly is this deity and what is Pandora up to?  I say total world domination!  This season is about the second of seven tribulations that Ichabod and Abbie must Witness.  The first two seasons were largely about Moloch's Apocalypse and now, there's another entity with its sights set on bringing forth his version of the Apocalypse.


The Shard of Anubis

It all began with a seemingly innocent looking rock, an artifact that the late Sheriff Corbin (Clancy Brown) had Jenny (Lyndie Greenwood) acquire a few years ago.  In episode two titled "Whispers In the Dark", Jenny finds the Shard of Anubis in a box in the archives while reminiscing about Sheriff Corbin.  Later she researches it and pulls up an Egyptian website about Anubis and more players are introduced into the mix, hell bent on getting their hands on the Shard.  This led Jenny and newly-anointed Team Witness member Joe Corbin (Zach Appelman) to opportunist Attica Nevins (Bill Irwin). Nevins, who we initially thought was working for Pandora, is actually "The Hidden One's" minion! To Abbie's dismay, they also stumbled upon Danny Reynold’s (Lance Gross) clandestine FBI operation to take down Nevins.  Unfortunately, after successfully pilfering the magic stone from Nevins, Jenny became the Shard after its energy drained into her! 


"The Others" Fighting Secret War

One of the questions brought up on social media within the Sleepyhead fandom is where are these "others" that Benjamin Franklin mentioned in the S2 finale, 'Tempus Fugit'? Who are they? Where are they? 

I think we've begun to see a few of them emerge throughout the last couple of episodes. There are several people that have been slowly, but steadily woven into the tapestry, clearly involved in the operation.  My list of probable "others" include, Danny Reynolds, FBI Director (Michael O'Keefe) and Sophie Foster (Jessica Camacho). Interesting that Sophie used the same tricks that Jenny does, which leads me to believe August Corbin had several young Jedi apprentices! Do Reynolds and the FBI Director know that Abbie is a Witness?


Thursday’s season one-worthy reveal that Sophie Foster, who seemingly appeared to be working with opportunist Nevins, is actually an undercover FBI agent working with Reynolds (Lance Gross)!  This moment didn't escape our girl Abbie, who is disappointed upon learning that her ex-beau lied to her and kept the operation under wraps. Especially after he knew Jenny and Joe could be implicated after contacting Nevins about the Shard.  This news also surprised Ichabod who immediately says, "He didn't tell you?", sensing his "Leiftenant" would be upset by the betrayal. 


Pandora

Team Witness has been trying to figure out Pandora's plans since she first strolled into town with her "dowry".  So what is she up to and why is this deity being brought forth into the 21st century?  A clue can be found in Pandora’s little poem from the first episode, "I, Witness":

"One for sorrow, two for love, three for a wedding and four for birth."  

Does this mean she's collected all that fear to give to her betrothed, Amun-Ra?  Is she planning to marry him and then bear his child?  We'll have to keep watching!


Pandora The Myth

Let's talk a little bit about Pandora.  There are many versions of this sorceress, though her story originates in Greek Mythology. Zeus created her as the first human woman after his son Prometheus stole the 'secret of fire' and gave it to man.  We all know how the story goes- Pandora was given a jar that contained gifts from the Gods and she was instructed to never open it.  Curiosity got the better of her and she unleashed all the evils into our world- disease, poverty, insanity, vice, passion and death!     


Who is Amun-Ra

Ironically it just so happens that I've written a novel that includes Amun-Ra, so through my research I learned a little bit about the Ancient Egyptian Sun God.
    
Amun-Ra, is a deity that was worshiped in Ancient Egypt. He had many names including the "Lord of Truth", "Father of the Gods" or "King of Gods".  He is considered a very powerful and important deity of Ancient Egypt, as well as within Greek Mythology. He was the creator of all living things on Earth, in Heaven and in the Underworld.  Egyptians believed Amun-Ra represented wind, fertility and secrets.  

After Pandora let all the evils out of her box, one remained- Hope. Amun-Ra reemerges when there is faith.  Is it possible Pandora's intentions are actually good versus evil?  Or is Amun-Ra attempting to usher in a new age, one where once again he is worshiped by all?  And exactly how do the blooming flowers fit into the mix?  My theory is that in order for "The Hidden One" to enter our realm, specific types of fear had to be extracted from each new entity our Witnesses defeated, as a gift to Amun-Ra. 

I think the magic spell that Pandora uses in "I, Witness" was intended to infuse love into her life, to make Amun-Ra fall for her. But was it for Pandora or could her target have been Jenny and Joe, or Ichabod and Abbie? Or dare I say it, Ichabod and Zoe?  Or could she be luring Amun-Ra out of the Underworld so she can rule it? So many questions, so few answers!


Ichabod's Ancestral Tablet

Although Ichabod talks about the version of Pandora from Greek Mythology, I must admit I'm a little stumped because the tablet he found in Scotland is Sumerian.  In the Sumarian version of Pandora (aka) Inanna, the Gods bestow the same beauty, but she packs her jar with seven items to bring to the "inferior world" aka Earth, that man would need to survive. 

But why are Ichabod and Abbie clearly depicted on the Sumarian tablet as "Destroyers"?  Maybe because they will destroy Amun-Ra's plans for ultimate world domination?  Or destroy Pandora, his soon-to-be wife? Or will they unwittingly usher in Gozur the Destroyer, along with a killer Stay Puff Marshmallow?  I'm betting on the former, not the latter and anxious to see it all unfold!  

Lots of food for thought!  I've laid a lot on your plates Sleepyheads!  What do you think? Think my ramblings are insane enough for Tarrytown Psychiatric or believe I may need to throw myself into Pandora's Box?  With Miss Jenny infected by the magic stone, channeling an Ancient Egyptian God and about to get the axe at the hands of Amun-Ra, this is one Fall Finale I'm NOT going to miss! (Okay, you all knew I'd be glued to the TV right?) LOL

Don't miss the S3 Fall Finale Party, Thursday Nov. 19, with Sleepy Trivia at 7-8pET for some amazing prizes from Deb McCue (you'll want them) and then help us TREND #SleepyFallFinale and #SleepyHollow 8-10p on Twitter!
   
Want to chat about the Fall Finale?  We will also be doing a 'Hollow Hangout' immediately following the east coast broadcast at 10pET to give you our thoughts on "Novus Ordo Seclorum"!  We'll have A LOT to chat about and may read your tweets live!  We'll also be announcing a couple of cool things going on during the very long, three month hiatus! 

Music News: HBO and Live Concert Cancel U2 Concert

Due to the horrific terror attacks in Paris, which claimed the lives of a confirmed 120 killed thus far, HBO and Live Nation have cancelled the U2 concert  Paris, France.

The band's website issued the following statement:  

As a result of the ongoing state of emergency across France, the U2 Paris concert scheduled for 14th November will not be going ahead as planned. U2 and Live Nation, along with HBO who were due to live broadcast the Saturday concert, are fully resolved to go ahead with this show at an appropriate time."

Speaking from Paris the band said:

"We watched in disbelief and shock at the unfolding events in Paris and our hearts go out to all the victims and their families across the city tonight. We are devastated at the loss of life at the Eagles of Death Metal concert and our thoughts and prayers are with the band and their fans.  And we hope and pray that all of our fans in Paris are safe”.

HBO had planned to live stream the big event Saturday, November 14, 2016, however obviously will reschedule.  In lieu of the concert, the premium network will air the film Jersey Boys.  No word as to a new date or refunds may be available.

*Follow 'The Fan's Voice for exclusive interviews and video content from your favorite television shows, movies and more!

Blogtalk Radio: www.blogtalkradio.com/thefansvoice
Twitter: @TFVChrissy; @SleepyAddicts
Facebook: The Fan's Voice and Sleepy Hollow Addicts
Tumblr: The Fan's voice and Sleepy Hollow Addicts
Instagram: fansvoicechrissy

Sleepy Hollow News: James McDaniel Cast as Papa Mills

Things are about to get very dicey for the Mills Sisters.  Not only is Jenny held hostage by an unseen entity, but looks like Papa Mills is headed for 'The Hollow'! FOX announced that award-winning James McDaniel has been cast as Ezra Mills, who has been MIA since the Mills Sisters were toddlers!  

Earlier this season we learned that Abbie actually found her father, living not too far from Sleepy Hollow and has sort of been stalking him, taking pictures but never getting too close.  One of the best moments thus far is when Ichabod urged Abbie to tell her secret and also tell Jenny she had found their father. True to form, when Abbie finally did spill the beans to Jenny, surprisngly she had found him five years ago!  Talk about an interesting twist!

According to the FOX press release, McDaniel will appear in at least one episode after it returns from hiatus.  Some of you may recognize him from the numerous television and movies roles he's had including Amazon's pilot Hysteria, recurring role on Netflix's Orange Is The New Black and on FOX's The Following. In addition he was a series regular on ABC's Detroit 187, NYPD Blue for 12 seasons and had guest roles on Chicago MD, Limitless, Madam Secretary, Numbers, Law and Order SVU and SVU Las Vegas.

All we know about Ezra Mills is that he left his two daughters and his wife, Lori (Anjanue Ellis) without any explanation or contact again.  So why is he interested in reaching out to Abbie and Jenny?  Why did he leave them and did he know Abbie is one of the Witnesses foretold in Revelations?  There is much to explore and I have a feeling we will learn exactly why he left and possibly if he knew about Abbie's biblical fate!   McDaniel will appear upon the series return in February.

To find out the answers to these and many more questions, be sure to tune in to Sleepy Hollow which moves to Fridays at 8 p.m. upon its return from hiatus, February 5, 2016 on FOX. 

*Don't miss the Fall Finale "Novus Ordo Seclorum", Thursday November 19, at 9 p.m. on FOX!  

Actress Kim Delaney Introduces Link TV's PTSD Documentary

Kim Delaney, award winning actress and producer, has been in the entertainment industry for many years, most recently in Army's Wives. She is extremely invested in shedding a light on veterans with PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), a condition that PTSD Foundation of America reports one in three returning troops will be diagnosed with Post-Traumatic symptoms. However, their statistics indicate that less than 40% will seek help. It further reports that in 2009, 245 soldiers committed suicide and on average, one in five active-duty troops attempt suicide each day.

Monday night the cast of Army's Wives reunited for the premiere screening event in Los Angeles for Link TV's Searching for Home: Coming Back from War".

 Directed and edited by Eric Christiansen, Executive Produced by Anthony Edwards and Produced by Bruce Spears, the documentary chronicles Veterans who have touching, yet horrific stories as victims dealing with PTSD, a condition that affects those they love the most.

Built on the "pillars" of The Truth - The Healing - the Hope, Searching For Home: Coming Back From War is a multi-generational study of the often perilous journey from battlefront to home front. From World War II, Korea, and Vietnam to modern-day conflicts, the documentary film honors the men and women, who have left "home," only to return to new and difficult challenges as profoundly changed people. The film captures, up close and personal, the lives of veterans struggling with issues of grief and trauma, some for as many as 60 years. Unprecedented access allows the viewer to personally witness the hidden wounds, disturbing memories and the devastating impact of PTSD.

KCETLink Media Group has partnered with New Directions for Veterans to raise awareness for veterans suffering from PTSD and to provide resources for their recovery process.

The film kicks off season two of LINK VOICES, KCETLink's weekly series of diverse, provocative, globally-sourced documentaries that inform, inspire and challenge viewers to impact change.

Searching for Home: Coming Back From War offers viewers a window into how these brave men and women can begin healing and regain hope utilizing myriad treatments and activities and, above all, helping others along the healing path.

Critical to the making of the film were a variety of organizations that include The Battle Buddy Foundation, David Westphall Veteran's Foundation, Heart 9/11, Mid America All-Indian Center, Etkin Lab at Stanford University, Veterans Airlift Command, Achilles International, Wounded Heroes Program of Maine, Purple Heart Homes and Run For The Wall.
"KCETLink is proud to present Searching For Home: Coming Home From War and partner with an organization so vital to this cause so we can recognize the difficult journey of our nation's heroes and understand the challenges they face once they are home from war," said KCETLink Media Group's Senior Vice President of Broadcasting, Programming and Syndication Bohdan Zachary. "This film is a significant undertaking representing the hearts and minds of the many diverse communities impacted by PTSD. We are truly grateful for this opportunity to bring this important project to viewers across Los Angeles and into the homes of Americans across the nation."

New Directions For Veterans hosted its 7^th annual "Honoring Our Heroes" gala on Oct. 4 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles, where actor John Savage ("The Deer Hunter") introduced a sneak peek of Searching For Home: Coming Back From War. The LA-based organization is committed to building a national community in which all at-risk veterans and their families lead lives of honor, dignity, well-being and respect, by helping veterans transition out of homelessness, find jobs, obtain homes and reunite with loved ones.

Beginning mid-October through Memorial Day 2016, a dedicated online hub at kcet.org/veterans and linktv.org/veterans will feature an ongoing series of short vignettes that highlight some of the veterans and organizations featured in Searching for Home, provide an in-depth look at these heroic individuals and their personal stories.

"Searching for Home has been a six-year odyssey for me, one of love, friendship and most of all, empathy," said the film's director Eric Christiansen ("Homecoming: A Vietnam Vets Journey"). "I have always believed my work is so much more than just making a film."

It has also received rave reviews from the New York Times and NYC Movies Guru:
"Searching for Home is strikingly photographed by Mr. Christiansen and is sure to give comfort and support to countless veterans and their families." -Anita Gates, New York Times
"A well-edited, well-organized and heartfelt doc that provides hope for anyone dealing with PTSD." -Avi Offer, NYC Movie Guru

Searching For Home: Coming Back From War is part of KCETLink's 'Link Voices,' a weekly presentation of globally-sourced documentary films. Link Voices airs nationally on Link TV and KCET Wednesdays at 9 p.m.
The documentary, Searching For Home: Coming Home From War, will nationally broadcast its premiere on Link TV's KCET Media Group, a national independent non-profit public broadcast in Southern California and via their digital network nationwide, appropriately on Veterans Day, November 11 at 9 p.m. ET/PT.
For more information on how you can help, be sure to check out KCET's website and follow them on social media:
@KCET
@LinkTV
KCET on Facebook
Link TV on Facebook

Sleepy Hollow: Sleepy Holloween Tribute

Sleepy Hollow: Ichabod and Abbie "Believe In Me"

Here's my latest Ichabbie video- be sure to watch Sleepy Hollow Thursdays 9p on FOX! This week is the big Bones/Sleepy Hollow crossover, begins at 8p! Ichabod and Abbie seek Brennan's authorization to release skeletal remains of a headless corpse they believe may belong to Abraham Van Brundt!  Don't miss the brainiacs Crane and Brennan (aka) Crennan, go toe to toe- it's epic!  Then stick around for Sleepy Hollow as our fab foursome- Ichabod, Abbie, Booth and Brennan are trapped after finding a location with historical significance! Also join us on twitter as we trend #HollowBones 8-9pET and #Abeyonce during 9-10p in honor of Abbie's kick ass costume as Beyonce!

Exclusive Interview: 'Z Nation' Star Keith Allan Talks Life in the World of Zombies

It's no secret that stories of zombies and the undead have been around since the 1950's, giving fans of the genre more than just brains to gnaw on! At the turn of the century, zombie stories continued to gain enormous popularity, infiltrating comic books, graphic novels, television and movies like never before.  With biological weapons a reality, there is fear that one day we could all succumb to a zombie virus or be left behind to survive like on The Walking Dead or World of Z. 

One show that is a little different than the rest is Syfy's Z Nation, which has become one of the network's biggest successes.  I had the privilege of chatting with one of the stars of the series, Keith Allan (Murphy), who took time out of his busy schedule to talk about the show and his character.

If you haven't watched Z Nation before, a little background...

It's been three years since the Zombie Apocalypse began via a virus and most of humanity has been snuffed out!  Murphy, a prisoner, is injected with an experimental cure to the zombie condition- he survives! After the prison is infiltrated by zombies, Murphy and several others escape. However, he finds himself a prisoner once again, with a band of humans who want to take him to a functioning lab in California who will use his blood to create the cure. After surviving a heinous zombie attack, Murphy is actually part of the zombie species now, so has empathy and a whole new outlook on humanity- does he want to save them? It all remains to be seen.

Murphy has been described as an anti-hero and villain, though he's been willing (to a certain extent) to help humans create the cure from his blood. Allan explains Murphy's point of view, that although he's in prison for a white-collar crime, he's used as a lab rat, then he ends up in the hands of humans that just want his blood for a cure, "he's over it!  He can only take that kind of crap for so long before starting to resent people."  Now we've seen Murphy's got more power, more strength and the tables are turned where he can sort of take charge over the humans. "He's a little over being everyone's bitch.  They can't just push me around so I think he's a little drunk with power now", adds Allan.

Interestingly, in "Batch 47", we see Murphy literally able to stare down a pot zombie, making him back down away from them.  He's definitely a part of their species now.  "He does have some weird compassion for these zombies.  He can see their vulnerability and they are basically judged, killed without asking deeper questions. [They're] basically treated like meat and the only thing [people] want to know is where to hit them in the head to kill them.  He's part of that species now and has been treated like them for so long, treated as less than and he's sick and tired of it", Allan discloses.  He adds that the compassion Murphy has for these monsters, surprises him and he is sort of seeing them in a new light.

Now that Murphy does seem to have more power, plus is not human but part of the zombie species, will he turn on humanity?  Allan says it's a possibility and mentions the speech Murphy gives at the beginning of season two, that maybe being human isn't the best thing.  "Maybe being a vindictive, spiteful, violent human being isn't any better" than his species.  In Murphy's mind, his trust and faith in humanity is on shaky ground, especially after being tied up, imprisoned by his best friend, someone he was closest to.   "Kind of all bets are off in his alliance to these people", Allan adds. He explains that although Murphy feels a kinship with the people he's been with the last two years, he's sort of playing a game.  "He's really having to play his hand close to his chest and not let them know what he's thinking, because again, he's a prisoner or they think he is."

I'd say Murphy is one of the most complex characters within this genre, as he is not human, but a hybrid (at this point) which is something that happened out of his control.  One of the great things about a cable network versus network television, is the fact that sometimes the actors are able to collaborate with the writers in developing their characters.  Allan, as well as other cast members, were given the chance to sit down with writers as they began to map out season two.

"They brought each one of us separately into the writers room and we had an afternoon where we threw out ideas, things we'd like to see happen. They're really great in being very collaborative and really want to hear our  opinions, what we'd like to see happen in the show."  Of course he quickly adds this doesn't mean all their ideas are used, but he feels from a creative standpoint, it gives the

writers a better idea of what the actors are envisioning.  "They know we have a strong sense of who these characters are.  It's a really great thing to know that you're involved in the collaborative to build this character."  Even as scripts come out, if there is something Allan might think Murphy wouldn't say or do, the writers are very approachable and are willing to listen.  "It's a good testament to how collaborative the show is."

In my opinion, cable networks have more of a creative and collaborative nature than network television, which I feel makes a big difference.  Especially when you see shows like The Walking Dead, on AMC, who is willing to go way outside the box creatively.  Although Z Nation has been compared to TWD, it's definitely got a much lighter vibe to it.  Allan agrees, "We're doing something new. What we're creating with Murphy is a character we haven't seen before."  Although Z Nation has a much lower production budget than something like TWD, it's about the characters and quality of writing, which Z Nation has in spades.  "We are putting the fun back into the genre, which is one thing Z Nation doing really right, making that balance between humor, war and drama. We are able to play on all those fields really well."  While there are some moments that can be a little ridiculous, (I mean come on, a pot farm overrun by pot zombies? Really?) the fact that the characters are based in reality, that are kept real, is the difference.  "I think it keeps situations from going campy but is still fun for the audience. We have scenes that are slightly over the top, but then bring it back to a really serious scene.  That's my favorite kind of horror- you're laughing then screaming, rooting for him at the same time."

While shows like Z Nation can take its toll on the audience, as emotions run the gambit from humorous to serious to fearful, the same can be said for the actors.  One of the toughest scenes for Allan was during season one's deeply disturbing moment when Murphy's hair began to fall out, looking in the mirror and the realization of what he may become- a monster.  Sometimes during production, scenes are rushed for the sake of time, however Allan spoke to the producers and asked that they let him take his time.  Then he worked with the Director of Photography on ideas for shots, the angles, magnifying mirrors, warping the images, etc...

In my opinion, it's such a defining moment for Murphy, as well as within the series, as he catches a glimpse of who he is now.  Allan talks about preparing to shoot the scene. "It's about an emotion you are trying to convey, about the fear of what's happening to you. It was a great scene, one of those you have to 'go there'.  What would I do if this were really me and I saw my skin was rotting off, how would that be?"  I think Allan was incredible and the audience could not only feel his pain, anguish and fear as to what the future will hold for him, but also see it in his eyes as he stared at his reflection in the mirror.  It ends up being a very compelling, heartbreaking moment in the series.

In the beginning of the series, Allan describes Murphy was weak, timid and fragile, being told by others what to do.  However, now that Murphy appears to be in a power position, of the zombie species and no longer part of the human race, where would Allan like to see him go from here?  He'd love to see him in a really strong power position over the human race.  "I'd like him to be where he is in position to sort of take vengeance on the human race.  I think the audience would be on his side because they've seen the way he's been treated and how people are really looking out for their own interests."  He adds he'd like "to see him very powerful and strong and kind of unforgiving."  This would bring his character full circle from when we first meet Murphy.

Allan laughs as he thinks back to shooting the zombie attack at the prison, then reveals he actually blacked out filming that scene!  He describes the straps holding him down to the table were really tight and he told the director he would only be able to do maybe 3-4 takes before his voice gave out from screaming. "The director said "go!" and zombies are biting me and I'm screaming and screaming."  They continuously filmed to ensure they had enough and when they stopped, "I kind of passed out!" Talk about the hazards of being on a show about the zombie apocalypse! Now that's dedication!

Of course on a show like this where the cast and crew put in long hours, there have to been some funny behind-the-scenes moments.  Allan laughs as he recalls a scene that hasn't aired yet.  He explains that Russell Hodgkinson who plays Doc, is supposed to get into a canoe and row away.  Apparently Russell made a running jump into the canoe, which capsized it, dumping him into the water!  Allan says he was watching the whole thing and couldn't stop laughing! Russell was a little upset as he came out looking like a soaked rat!  Hopefully it will be on the S2 DVD (hint hint).

In being such a huge fan of zombie-type television and movies, for me I like the fact everyone bans together, is united working just to stay alive. Whether it's Rick and his crew trying to make a life in Alexandria or Brad Pitt trying to save his family, it's about surviving.  This genre has become so popular, why does Allan think we are fascinated at the possibility of a Zombie Apocalypse?  "I think there's something inherent in human beings wanting to have common enemy. Within the human race we all have differences with people for various reasons, politics, religion, etc... but zombies is one enemy we can all agree on.  It levels the playing field because we all have to fight together. It's us against them." 

Some fans of Z Nation may not know that Allan is also a writer, director, producer and has a multitude of projects he's working on.  One he's very excited about is trying to get a play he did in Los Angeles made into a film.  He and Z Nation director Alexander Yellen actually produced a seven-minute trailer to hopefully reel in a company interested in making the movie. "It's a graphic novel, dark comedy, crime-fighter super villain piece and it's a lot of fun and I'm really proud of it. I love superhero stuff and this piece has a nice balance of comedy/violence/graphic novel style so hopefully we can make it happen."

Finding out that he loves superheroes, I had to ask who his favorites are and I wasn't too surprised when he said Batman and Spiderman.  He loved Guardians of the Galaxy, Watchmen, "I really enjoy them all, also anything with robots."  Interesting! Since he's a Batman fanatic I asked if he has watched Gotham.  Unfortunately he hasn't had time but hopes to do catch up once his schedule permits.

Allan is really excited about the rest of season two and says he thinks fans will like where Murphy is going.  He also had a message for Z Nation fans, "Thank you for your support.  I really love that our audience is really digging the show and getting to love what we do."

In my opinion, Allan's character Murphy is one of the most unique within the genre, a true hero in the making and his portrayal is brilliant.  Although Murphy is considered a villain to humans, Allan gives the audience a reason to like the character, to understand where he's coming from, and want to root for him despite how he may end up taking down humanity for good! If you are a fan of the Zombie Apocalypse craze or just a fan of really tortured, layered characters and good writing, Z Nation is a must see!

Be sure to catch Z Nation on Syfy, Fridays at  10p/9c. Next episode, October 16: "Zombie Baby Daddy". Catch up on the entire season on Syfy. Follow Z Nation on twitter: @znation

Find more about Keith Allan and his upcoming projects on his website. follow on twitter: @KeithAllanDuh

Buy Z Nation S1 and S2 on Amazon.