Who is Gregg Rivera in “Only Murders in the Building” and why is he important?

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In the captivating world of "Only Murders in the Building," a series that masterfully blends comedy with suspense, one character has recently caught the attention of fans and critics alike: Gregg Rivera. But who exactly is this mysterious figure, and why has he become such a pivotal character in the unfolding drama?

A First Encounter

When Mabel, one of the show's central characters, first strikes up a conversation with Gregg Rivera during Ben's funeral, it seems like a casual, perhaps even fortuitous, interaction. On the surface, Gregg appears to be just another attendee, possibly a colleague or friend of the deceased. But as their conversation deepens, it becomes clear that Gregg's connection to Ben is far more intricate than it initially appears.

The Security Guard Facade

Gregg introduces himself as Ben's security guard, a claim that, at first, seems plausible. After all, Ben was a renowned movie actor, and it wouldn't be out of the ordinary for someone of his stature to have personal security. However, as the episode progresses, the authenticity of this claim becomes increasingly dubious. Why would a security guard be so keen on discussing potential murder suspects with Mabel, a relative stranger?

The Obsessive Super-Fan

The plot takes a dark twist when Charles and Mabel visit Gregg's apartment. Instead of the professional environment one might expect of a security guard, they are confronted with a shrine dedicated to Ben. Photoshopped images of Gregg with Ben, an array of Ben's merchandise, and other memorabilia paint a picture of obsession rather than professional association. This revelation begs the question: Was Gregg ever really Ben's security guard, or was this just a ruse to get closer to his idol?

A Dangerous Obsession

Things take a turn for the worse when Gregg's true intentions become clear. The chloroforming of Charles and Mabel and their subsequent imprisonment in his basement reveal a man unhinged, driven to extremes by his fixation on Ben. His belief that Charles and Mabel are responsible for Ben's death, despite evidence to the contrary, further underscores his detachment from reality.

The Police Connection

Detective Biswas's revelation that Gregg had been stalking Ben for years and was never his security guard is the final piece of the puzzle. The police had been tracking him, aware of his dangerous obsession, but were they too late in connecting the dots?

Gregg Rivera's character serves as a chilling reminder of the dangers of obsession. His transformation from a seemingly innocuous funeral attendee to a potential murderer adds layers of complexity to the show's narrative. It also raises questions about the nature of celebrity, the thin line between admiration and obsession, and the lengths to which some fans might go to get close to their idols.

As "Only Murders in the Building" continues to unravel its mysteries, viewers will undoubtedly be on the edge of their seats, waiting to see how Gregg Rivera's storyline will intersect with the broader narrative. One thing is for sure: the show's creators have a knack for crafting characters that captivate, intrigue, and leave us yearning for more.