The Red John reveal in The Mentalist series finale remains one of the most debated topics among fans. Many felt deeply unsatisfied with the unveiling of Sheriff McAlister as the notorious serial killer. After watching season 6 episode 8, titled “Red John,” it’s clear that the disappointment is still palpable for some. This episode was supposed to provide closure, but for many, it only raised more questions and weakened the intricate narrative that had been built over six seasons. Instead of a mastermind, we were presented with a seemingly unremarkable character. This article delves into why the reveal fell flat and revisits a compelling alternative theory: Brett Partridge as Red John.
Many viewers, including myself, find the idea of Brett Partridge being Red John far more convincing and narratively satisfying. Partridge, the CBI forensic analyst, possessed a chilling fascination with Red John’s crimes and displayed several traits that aligned more closely with the killer’s established profile. McAlister, on the other hand, felt like a forced and ultimately less impactful choice.
Here’s why the Brett Partridge theory still holds significant weight:
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The Voice and Charisma Factor: Red John was characterized as charismatic with a distinctive, somewhat high-pitched voice. McAlister’s demeanor is calm and, frankly, unthreatening. His voice lacks the chilling quality associated with Red John. Conversely, the French voice actor used for Partridge in the French dubbing of The Mentalist, particularly in episodes 2×23 and 6×01, strongly resonated with the Red John persona for some international viewers, adding an intriguing layer to this theory.
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Red John Expertise and Obsession: Partridge was an expert on Red John, deeply immersed in the details of his crimes. This expertise could easily be interpreted as insider knowledge, blurring the lines between investigator and perpetrator. His intense interest in the morbid aspects of the murders felt unsettling, hinting at a darker psyche beneath the professional facade. This contrasts sharply with McAlister, who never exhibited such a profound or disturbing interest in Red John beyond the general case.
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Psychopathic Traits and Demeanor: Partridge often came across as emotionally detached and somewhat unsettling. He displayed a mannered and almost precious demeanor, traits that could be interpreted as mirroring Patrick Jane’s own calculated persona, but with a sinister twist. This unsettling calmness and detachment are far more indicative of a psychopath capable of Red John’s heinous acts than McAlister’s portrayal.
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Suspicious Behavior During Confrontation: In episode 6×01, when Jane confronts Partridge, his reaction is notably defensive and seemingly disingenuous. He acts overly innocent, a classic deflection tactic often employed by those with something to hide. This scene, in retrospect, could be viewed as a subtle hint towards Partridge’s potential involvement, whereas McAlister’s prior interactions offered no such red flags until the very end.
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Symbolic First Line: Partridge’s very first line in the series was “Red John enters.” While seemingly a coincidence, in retrospect, this could be interpreted as a deliberate foreshadowing, a subtle clue planted by the creators that was ultimately overlooked in favor of a less impactful reveal.
Alt text: Brett Partridge, the CBI forensic analyst, examining evidence at a crime scene in The Mentalist, a character many fans theorize was a more fitting Red John.
In contrast, the arguments for McAlister as Red John often feel weaker and riddled with inconsistencies:
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Age Discrepancy: McAlister appears older than 40, while Partridge seemed to be closer to the appropriate age range if Red John was active for the speculated duration.
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Fear of Heights Contradiction: Red John was established as being afraid of heights, a trait seemingly contradicted by McAlister’s actions in the reveal episode.
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Inconsistent Character Motivation: McAlister’s supposed regret for killing Jane’s family and his sudden repentance feel completely out of character for the narcissistic and remorseless Red John we had come to know. Red John, as portrayed throughout the series, was unlikely to express remorse or regret, especially to his nemesis. His statement in season 4 episode 22, “I won’t be punished for what I did,” embodies this unrepentant nature, making his supposed regret in the finale feel jarringly inconsistent.
Ultimately, while the show officially designated McAlister as Red John, the Brett Partridge theory continues to resonate with many viewers. It offers a more thematically consistent and character-driven explanation for the Red John mystery. The disappointment with the actual reveal stems from the feeling that a richer and more compelling narrative thread was abandoned in favor of a less impactful and somewhat anticlimactic resolution. For those who felt let down by the official Red John, the Brett Partridge theory remains a compelling “what if,” a reminder of the chilling potential that was perhaps missed.
What do you think? Was Brett Partridge a more plausible Red John? Share your thoughts and theories in the comments below!
Alt text: Sheriff McAlister, depicted with a nervous demeanor and sweating, a portrayal that some viewers found unconvincing for the menacing and composed Red John in The Mentalist.
