So, what exactly is ‘shipping?’ One might define it as the pairing or grouping of people to establish a relationship, whether it’s romantic or non-mutual, such as working together efficiently to achieve a common ground. ‘Ship’ is also the short term for relationship. The 100 has a whole ‘family’ of ships, and throughout the series (thus far) we see them intersperse and blossom. To be frank here, I was completely blasé about shipping.
In fact, I have never heard of it until The 100 and its ever-growing fandom. I am now quite the neutralist, because everyone and their pairings and interactions are needed. Without a diverse gathering of people, we would not survive. Shipping is not like a love triangle, but a tangle of different emotions from a viewer’s perspective, much like the relationship between Octavia and Lincoln in The 100.
It creates that hopefulness, which makes human contact needed in a desperate world. In reality, we feel the same exact feelings, and throughout our lives, those feelings will reciprocate in some form or another. Can you imagine having the time of your life with one person, one carefree moment, and then they disappear the next? It leaves a bit of a void in our hearts as we share the loss, and we can relate to it with them. We grieve. It can also create excitement, or that bubble where we finally see our two favorite characters interact. However, like bubbles, that feeling can burst and can put everyone on an emotional rollercoaster. The people are quickly realizing that without their fearless leaders, they have to take matters into their own hands, whether it is a sensible choice or a fatal one.
The majority of The 100 fandom has an ‘OTP’ or ‘one true ship,’ and that is the pairing of Bellamy and Clarke, often called Bellarke. While they are a couple in the books and not on the drama, the one thing that both versions possess is mutual respect for one another. Of course, this was a gradual accumulation. From the very first episode, the pilot, Bellamy and Clarke did not see eye-to-eye or agree on anything.
They were and still are two very different people, and yet they evolved so much during the first season and the beginning of the second that their leadership proved to be immensely needed. Without the combined leadership powers of Bellamy and Clarke, the group would not have prevailed and survived. Bellamy is still a little hard, but working and connecting with Clarke allows things to be accomplished.
Such an example was when the monstrous (not so much now) Murphy (Richard Harmon) went irrational in season one, episode four, Murphy’s Law. Bellamy was very livid with him after the suicide of Charlotte and was beating him. Clarke stops Bellamy and explains to him that they do not have the power to decide who lives and who dies.
Without any kind of law, nothing or nobody’s safe, and the outcome will be most severe. They decided by making the rules it will not only benefit their well-being but the others’ as well. It was because of Bellamy that the majority of the group survived, and he and Clarke showed strong and true leadership. As for fans’ reactions, through certain glances and touches, it created a belief in true love. There is nothing stronger than true love, or so they say. Now, I am not going to say that I am a Bellarker (yet it’s growing on me) because I am quite the neutralist when it comes down to shipping, but I do completely respect it. In my view, I more see Bellarke appreciating and respecting one another—a strong friendship more so than a couple. Bellamy can be bullheaded, while Clarke is more practical, though she can be stubborn as well.
They work amazingly as leaders with their opposite personas. In my mind, if they did get together romantically, it might make it or break it. Is the risk worth it though? Time will tell, as it seems to be a more gradual build-up. Their relationship is more than love, more than physical interaction—it is a wholeness. I am sure that Clarke could lead just fine without Bellamy, but they work better together, making sure what is right for their friends. Then, what about the glances and the touches you wonder? Everyone has a different thought on this. My thought is that it is a deep respect and empathy.
The expressionism between them goes a lot farther than jumping in the hay, so to speak. The writers have done an incredible job executing this ship, as well as the others. It’s natural and human to look at another person or even share a comforting touch when you have gone through so much together. You understand and know what people have been through, you share your experiences, and you are not afraid to pour out emotion. You feel the compassion and support.
Another prime example of a Bellarke moment is when Bellamy saved Clarke’s life in episode eight, Day Trip. They both realized that they needed to face their problems rather than running away from them. It was a real character turn of Bellamy for me because he let out his true feelings about what he had done, believing that he was a monster. Watching him make mistake after mistake without learning either tells me that he was stubborn or that he was so guilt-ridden that he lost the concept of who he was.
After that, Bellamy expressed more of his softer side rather than bottling up the frustrations and turmoil. He soon understood that inner demons can be a dangerous outlet. With that realization, he becomes a better and stronger individual for the rest of season one and now into season two. Bellamy is still our rebel king, but with better decision making and thinking before he acts. Clarke also recognizes that in order to survive, you cannot let your guard down, no matter the circumstance. You have to fight in order to live in a beautiful, yet savage world.
Finn Collins, in my belief, is a very lost and pained individual. Here we see this peaceful and sweet guy trying to make the best of things, and suddenly he goes to the polar opposite. Which is incredibly wretched because Finn can be lovable and caring. When I first saw Finn with Clarke, it seemed right, almost perfect. They seemed to synchronize, wanting the same level of harmony for the kids and among the Grounders. In addition, they understood one another at the time. They shared a bond together, not because they slept together, but because they understood what was needed to achieve peace in the brave new world.
After all, they and the rest of the 100 were sent down to Earth to die, and now they are trying their hardest to make it. In addition, they also need to prove that they are not some spoiled kids, but resilient and unbreakable to the Ark. Even though Finn did commit infidelity, Clarke still needed him (this is an undeniable fact), and she still cares for him.
It is uncertain if she has forgiven him, but her face crumbled when she found out that Finn was still out there after her reunion with Bellamy. However, she is greatly dismayed when she witnesses Finn mass murder innocent lives and tries to figure out why he would do such an unfathomable act. The answer could be as simple as PTSD, or the thought of losing everything and everyone—especially Clarke—made him snap. Keep in mind that this act was inexcusable, and nothing will ever amend for it. It can be a much deeper problem that hopefully can be explored, and here’s to the writers fulfilling this. Finn needs to resolve his issues before he commits himself in a relationship. How can you live with yourself after what you had done? So many are devastated, lost, and hurt because of his actions, and I can’t imagine how he feels and thinks about them. Unless he has absolutely no remorse, then that would be immoral and inhumane. I completely understand that it may have been an act of war, that Finn thought they were going to attack him or Murphy.
Even Murphy told him that they had to leave, and when that comes from a guy like Murphy, you know that you have a problem. I am not saying that he is a horrible person, because he really isn’t, although many do think this way. Again, I am being neutral about every interaction because all relations (romantic and platonic) are interesting and realistic. Nevertheless, in Many Happy Returns, he was arguing with Bellamy about his shooting of the Grounder in the bunker, saying how he didn’t want to do it, yet it was hypocritical that he wanted to leave behind Mel (Tanaya Beatty) because “they don’t have the time.” Who would want to leave a helpless and injured girl behind? Again, love and war have conflicted him in indisputable ways—ways that are unimaginable. Finn is just a character, like the rest of them, with a complicated psychological profile. His actions crushed everyone he knows and loves, especially Clarke, and I am greatly hoping that there is hope for him for the sake of everyone.
In the middle of season one, we were introduced to a new and unexpected love interest for Octavia. She has the small reputation of wrapping boys around her finger. Of course, brother Bellamy has made sure that no boys would cross Octavia’s path—well, almost. He couldn’t stop her from Lincoln (Ricky Whittle). At first, I honestly believed Octavia was developing a strong case of Stockholm Syndrome (where you develop positivity toward your captor) and how she was really showing empathy. But that was not the case, the Stockholm Syndrome that is. This was one Grounder who was actually a good guy.
I enjoyed the way Lincoln was presented on the show—mysterious, somewhat sweet, yet a little dangerous. This is one of the stronger ships of The 100 because these are two people from two different worlds. The more that I think about it, Lincoln and Octavia are not so different.
Yes, he comes from a dangerous tribe, and she had a dangerous childhood with the fear of being caught. They learn from one another, each bringing out opposite traits. Lincoln learns that the Sky People are not a dangerous threat and truly wants harmony with them. When you are literally the only Grounder with this wish, it becomes much more difficult to achieve. He became a traitor to his own tribe just to be with the girl he loves. Octavia also learns that she has an inner Grounder within herself and begins learning the language and the skills to live that life.
It proves to be essential for her survival because she becomes separated from Lincoln and is alone until she reunites with Bellamy and the others from Camp Jaha. What she goes through and what she has to do to protect Lincoln and her own people is remarkable. Remember, this was a girl who hid under a floor for nearly sixteen years, had a carefree “I don’t give a damn” attitude when she first dropped from the sky, and simply wanted to be a free spirit. Now we see her become a strong woman, fighting Grounders and standing beside Bellamy to free their people and Lincoln from the evil confines of Mt. Weather. Octavia developed these strengths with the help of Lincoln, and Lincoln became a soldier for her. However, things are becoming rough this season for Lincoln as he undergoes a total transformation thanks to Mt. Weather. Will Octavia be able to bring him back to the man she loves? We shall soon see.
As we know, shipping does not have to involve romance. It can also represent a rock-solid friendship, one that is tested throughout time. When we think of “friends” on The 100, what automatically comes to mind is the quirky yet intelligent duo, Jasper Jordan and Monty Green. These two guys are close like brothers and have had each other’s backs since their time on the ARK. Their bond is built on loyalty, trust, and shared experiences that strengthened their friendship long before they ever reached Earth.
What makes their “bromance” unique? For starters, one is rarely seen without the other. Both of their personalities are light-hearted, fun, and complementary, and they work exceptionally well together. From the moment Monty helped Clarke treat Jasper’s spear wound to the tense situation where Jasper struggled to take the shot on the bridge, Monty stood right beside him with an extra rifle and words of encouragement. Their teamwork and unwavering support for each other truly highlight one of the strongest friendships in the series.
This season, however, their friendship is being tested due to the conflicts and suspicions surrounding Mt. Weather. Jasper begins developing anxiety, quickly placing trust in his new surroundings and believing that he is finally “safe.” Monty, on the other hand, starts to see through the illusion and becomes increasingly alarmed. Maya’s presence also puts their friendship at risk, creating tensions that are easy to notice. While this reaction may be understandable, it is not entirely considerate. A lifelong friendship should not be easily shaken by the involvement of someone new.
It was unlike Jasper to dismiss Clarke simply because he was so captivated by the dark-haired girl. After all, Clarke is not someone you can easily dismiss. Fortunately, Jasper eventually realized his mistake and wanted to find out what had happened to her. Even though Monty was not completely supportive of Jasper’s decision to save Maya during the premeditated containment breach, he still stayed by Jasper’s side, carefully analyzing every move and reaction. No matter what disagreements arise between them, they will always have each other’s backs. Here’s hoping for even more Jonty moments ahead.
Teamwork is another crucial aspect of The 100. In fact, it is greatly relied upon because when people work together, goals are achieved more quickly and efficiently. Time is never on anyone’s side when survival is at stake. Every second matters, and every moment becomes a struggle for the next minute of life. Teamwork also connects with the idea of “shipping” in the series, where partnerships and interactions between characters strengthen their chances of survival and success.
For example, the quirky engineer Wick (Steve Talley) and the tough, talented mechanic Raven share a playful dynamic while working together to construct a radio beam for communication. Their banter feels refreshing and genuine. Raven, who is still coming to terms with her disability, stubbornly refuses to wear the leg brace that Wick designed for her. Eventually, she gives in and puts it on, realizing that it relieves her pain and helps her function again. Wick comes across as someone you could easily share a drink with, yet he remains focused and serious when it comes to getting the job done.
I do think Raven deserves a good man at her side—though it is not something she necessarily needs—after everything she has endured. The tragedies she has faced have shaped her into a strong and resilient person. When Raven and Wick work together, they bring out each other’s inner child while also strengthening their individual talents. Their skills complement one another, and their scientific abilities prove essential. Without their combined efforts, Clarke may never have found her way back to camp, and without Clarke, it raises the question of how the rest of their people would have been rescued.
Raven’s intelligence is constantly relied upon, and her brilliance is never wasted. When you combine the minds of Raven and Clarke, the result is powerful leadership and determination—true female dominance. Although they had their differences at the beginning, particularly because of the situation involving Finn, it was a conflict that many people can relate to. Over time, however, they moved past those tensions. Alongside Bellamy, these two strong women form the backbone of the group. Without the strength, intelligence, and resilience of Raven and Clarke, it is hard to imagine how anyone would have survived.
The idea of blasting and barbecuing the Grounders, and working together to make it happen, was purely phenomenal. It was heartbreaking, though, when Raven had to guide Clarke in rewiring the dropship’s mechanical interior because of Murphy’s actions. Personally, I would choose Raven first to help me out—why? Because we all know she is awesome. Despite her tough appearance, she truly has a good heart. Once again, Raven and Clarke prove to be an incredible powerhouse when they work together, especially when they searched for radio components in the bomb shelter to reestablish communication with the ARK after Bellamy tossed the pod’s radio into the river.
Although Bellamy’s decision was questionable, the teamwork that followed showed how capable they all were. Raven and Clarke consistently succeed in what they do, and even their efforts to save Finn’s life demonstrate how much this “Clarven” partnership matters in The 100. Their combined intelligence, courage, and determination make them essential to the group’s survival. Of course, the situation must have been awkward at times, considering they both cared for Finn, leaving him clearly confused between two remarkable women.
Their emotions may be at war with one another, but a human life is at stake. Unfortunately, Finn’s actions complicated everything, and it becomes clear that Clarke and Raven do not need him romantically to remain strong individuals. Sometimes personal feelings must be set aside when survival and the greater good are on the line. This is how I personally see it, though I am not dismissing the Flarke or Faven ships entirely. One of the things I truly appreciate about this show is that romance is never the primary focus; instead, it highlights resilience, survival, and the harsh reality of living on the edge.
What continues to stand out is the powerful bonds and relationships these characters build with one another, eventually finding a balance despite their conflicts. Their unity, even when imperfect, is what helps them endure the chaos around them. It makes you wish that real-world leaders could approach problems in the same way—seeking cooperation and preventing unnecessary violence. People do not always have to like one another, but finding common ground for the benefit of everyone would make a tremendous difference. One can only hope.
The death of Sterling (Keenan Tracey) was heroic and not at all like most of the deaths. He died while trying to save Mel, his friend on the ARK. It was Monroe that suggested that they should try to save the girl. So, Bellamy climbs down the cliff with supports made from the safety belts of the fallen ARK. The group works together to hold and pull Bellamy in place, but it was a very difficult task.
Yet, through it all, they managed to safely pull Bellamel (my ship name for Bellamy and Mel) to the top. Guess who was at the front of the line of the pulling? Yep, it was Murphy. He wentGroup of The 100 characters standing together.from having total vehemence and vengeance towards the guy to saving his life.
A complete 360° turn, and his arc from bad to good looks quite promising. Even when the Grounders were arching at the kids and Monroe got hit, they kept dedicated on saving Bellamy and Mel. After everything was calm and situated, they decided to continue to search for Clarke, and Bellamy, reunited with Octavia, and Monroe will head back to camp.
Before they disband, Bellamy tosses a rifle to Murphy, a gesture of truce, perhaps? Or safety against the unknown? Murphy never did use the gun, and again he shocked me. It really shows how teamwork is quite the necessity and the outcomes that it can create.
I am briefly going to skim over to the less mentioned, but still important ships. There are three more, well, actually there are possibly be thousands more, but I am going with three here. All three though have one amazing lady. Medical queen Abby Griffin and her cool assistant, Jackson (Sachin Sahel) nurture the sick, and wounded, and they have one another’s back, like the majority of everyone that I gave mention to. While Abby bravely goes against the ARK’s crucial laws to save Chancellor Jaha (Isaiah Washington), and Jackson is quite distraught about the act, she consoles him and takes full blame. Then we see Jackson in tears as he watched Abby get lashed by the orders of Kane and Major Guard Byrne (Kendall Cross) (At this point, taking her punishment in full alliance. Smooth move there Abby, as any true leader would do. I couldn’t watch as they done this though, wholly, because I can’t stand torture to any person or creature.
Afterwards, Jackson is disinfecting her wounds, and gives her words of strength. She done what she had to do for the finding and bringing her child home. Any devout parent would do the same. Even though Abby can be Bellamy in action in The 100. stubborn like her daughter, she is only trying to do what is best for her people. Turns out without the extra anesthesia and blood, Jaha would have passed, and the whole ARK would collapse and shatter. However, that happened anyway with the party of ex-chancellor Diana Sidney (Kate Vernon), who was just power hungry.
Anyways, Jaha and Abby want the same thing for their people, no matter what the sacrifice may be. Whether it’s leaving yourself behind on the doomed ARK to save your citizens, or risking your life to save your child and her friends (But leaving Finn and Murphy behind? Not cool). Abby and Jaha exemplify along with Clarke and Bellamy of what a leader should be. Tough, strong, unbreakable. Gaining the admiration and trust of everyone, including your arch enemy.
The third ship is a bit of a puzzle to me, as these two seem to be either in disagreement or agreement. Kane is a confusing guy to me, he desires power, but when given authority, he doesn’t know how to handle it. Abby can see that he could be a compassionate individual, but she always tends to get on his bad side. They have different ideas of how the human race should be saved, and Kane is coming to terms that punishment is not always necessary. He shows great remorse after the culling, because he should’ve listened to Abby. Then, he was willing to sacrifice his life for the ARK’s descend. Such a contrast from the pilot, because Kane was one of those ill-tempered kind of guys.
He can still be that way. Now for Bellamy’s arrest, okay, I thought it was cruel and unjustifiable. Bellamy’s reaction to Murphy was perfectly natural, as he is the cockroach. Murphy done some horrid things and betrayed the kids in the past. Kane didn’t question him and get an explanation. He didn’t want to hear any of it nor cared. On the contrary, great lawmen needs explanations for the motives. Finn tried to give him the logic, but Kane was just so arrogant that he dismissed him. See what I mean about confusion?
Giving Abby the role of Chancellor was one of the better things that he Clarke and Bellamy side by side. had done. Kabby might not be a ship that I can fully agree with because of mass differences, but like all ships on The 100, it is needed.
They seem to balance one another out, and without balance, nothing works. This goes for everyone, and how we all correspond with one another with either makes us stronger, or bring out our worst.
So, there you have it. This is why ‘shipping’ is important on the show. It omits different emotions and reactions from a viewer’s stand point, and whether it is intentional or unintentional, we could relate and feel with the characters. There is no wrong or right ship, as each fan has their own favorite, and like I stated before, everyone is needed in order to survive. No ship in my opinion, is better than the other, and we can all agree that we don’t need romance to enjoy and indulge The 100. We all enjoy it because it is one awesome and quite gripping TV series, and the edginess is just the tip of the iceberg.
The core and structure of the popular CW’s drama, The 100, is keeping up your guard strongly up, sleeping with one eye open, and staying on the sharp precipice of survival. It’s also about morality, going against what you believed you were, and sacrificing for peace.
This is what makes The 100 unique and does not make romance the focal point like most series. However, it’s perfectly natural that fans would ‘ship’ off characters, and it makes us feel lighthearted and content. You think a show with lots of attractive and pretty people you will get something out of a guilty pleasure romance novel. WRONG.
These are kids and one adult making rash and immeasurable decisions just so they can inhale their next breath or appreciate the next morning. We see Clarke Griffin (Eliza Taylor), the female protagonist, using the earth’s natural and questionable elements for the medicinal healing and treatment of her people. Finn Collins (Thomas McDonell) is dangerously transitioning from Pacifist to Antagonist. Bellamy Blake (Bob Morley) puts his whole life on the line for his little sister, Octavia (Marie Avgeropoulos), and the kids. And who could forget Raven (Lindsey Morgan), Monty (Christopher Larkin), and Jasper (Devon Bostick), who all worked together last season for constructing ammunition and communication devices.
The #1 Source For The 100
Shipping: Why It Plays an Important Role on The 100
Evelyn Ulrich
Originally published: Early December 2014