‘The Blacklist’ is a popular American crime thriller television series that premiered in 2013. It follows the story of Raymond “Red” Reddington, a former US Navy officer turned criminal, who voluntarily surrenders to the FBI and offers to help them catch some of the world’s most dangerous criminals.
However, the audience is introduced to various plot twists, betrayals, and unexpected alliances later in the series, one of which involves Marvin Gerard, Reddington’s trusted lawyer, and ally. Let’s see what betrayal tastes like with Raymond.
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Marvin, Raymond, And The Betrayal: What Went Wrong?
Marvin Gerard, played by actor Fisher Stevens, first appears in season 2 of ‘The Blacklist’ as a corrupt lawyer and a fugitive who is trying to run from the law after being accused of money laundering. Raymond Reddington recruits Gerard to help him clear his own name and prove his innocence in the eyes of the FBI. Gerard agrees to help Reddington; over time, he becomes a valuable asset to the team.
In season 9, it is revealed that Marvin Gerard betrayed Reddington in several ways. Firstly, he orchestrated the murder of Liz, which was a significant betrayal in itself. This act shook Reddington to his core when he discovered the truth towards the end of ‘The Blacklist‘ season 9, igniting a profound sense of betrayal and unleashing a dark rage within him.
In an attempt to divert Reddington’s attention and cover his tracks, Marvin resorted to blackmailing Harold Cooper, a key member of the Task Force. By compromising Cooper, Marvin aimed to hinder Reddington’s investigation and impede his pursuit of the truth. Additionally, Marvin planted a tracker on Liz, further betraying Reddington’s trust. This allowed Marvin to monitor Liz’s movements and potentially manipulate the situation.
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Why Did Marvin Betray Raymond?
Marvin Gerard betrayed Raymond Reddington in ‘The Blacklist’ Season 9 to protect Red’s empire and prevent him from discovering the truth about Liz Keen’s death. Marvin was responsible for orchestrating Liz’s death and managing Red’s operations while he was absent. When Red returned, Marvin hoped he would let go of the past, but Red continued investigating, prompting Marvin to take drastic measures to hinder him. This included targeting Red’s finances and blackmailing Cooper. Marvin never had any allegiance to Liz and openly expressed mistrust towards her, believing she was undeserving and incapable.
Marvin’s motivation did not stem from personal animosity towards Reddington but rather from deep concern and insight that Reddington lacked. He believed the matter was resolved and buried in the years following Liz’s death. However, Reddington’s return to the Task Force and resumption of his previous activities threatened to uncover the truth. As a result, Marvin felt compelled to cover his tracks, leading to the plot to blackmail Cooper. Reddington eventually deduced that Marvin had betrayed him, even before the Task Force became aware of it.
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