In a recent interview for a radio show about LOST, I was asked a lot about the coming end of the show, including who I thought the hero or heroes ultimately would be. Though I honestly hadnt thought much about it, the person that we all tended to agree on surprised even me:
Hurley.
Thats right, the dude man. After I thought a little more about it, the long-shot idea began to make more sense. Thinking about the theme of redemption and transformation throughout the show, all the main characters have gone through major personal revelations, eschewing their spotty pasts for a second chance at a new life on the island. Some have done better than others with this second chance, but no one has been left unchanged.
Now, the most obvious choice for hero is Jack, who even has the Christlike name Shephard and is, by profession, a healer. But given the complexity of the show, I expect a curve-ball or two come the apocalyptic end. But the only one who has been good, more or less from start to finish is Hurley. And theres one other key reason why I think he might be the one; hes the only one who came to the island with thew apparent understanding that getting everything you think you want in life can actually be more of a curse than a blessing.
This theme of wish-fulfillment being a curse is getting stronger throughout the final season, partcularly with Smokey/Locke dangling carrots in front of folks like getting off the island or getting all the answers they ever wanted. Hell, he might as well have a forked tongue and slither on his belly.
But so far, he hasnt tempted Hurley as I can recall, and neither has anyone else. Hes followed other people when he thinks its the right thing to do, but never out of persona self-interest.
So there it is. Ive said it. Its out there. tell me what a moron I am and why this cant possibly be whats coming. But my money, at least for now, is on Hurley.