Who killed Ben in “Only Murders in the Building?”
Table of Contents
I. Setting the Stage
The glitz and glamour of Broadway often hide the darker undertones of ambition, jealousy, and intrigue. This is never more evident than in the shocking events of the first episode of "Only Murders in the Building" Season 3. As the curtains fell and the lights dimmed, the audience was left grappling with a chilling question: Who killed Ben Glenroy? This article dives deep into the labyrinth of motives, means, and opportunities, attempting to shed light on this perplexing mystery.
II. The Suspects: An Overview
Every murder mystery is only as intriguing as its list of suspects. And in the case of Ben Glenroy's untimely demise, the list is as star-studded as it is suspicious. From Broadway hopefuls to seasoned directors, from behind-the-scenes crew to on-stage stars, anyone could have a motive. But who had the means and the opportunity? Let's delve into the potential culprits and their possible reasons for wanting Ben out of the picture.
III. Loretta Durkin
Loretta Durkin, portrayed by the inimitable Meryl Streep, is a character steeped in the melancholy of unfulfilled dreams. Her journey from a starry-eyed girl in the sixties to a bitter woman in the present day is a poignant tale of ambition meeting reality. But could this history of disappointment have driven her to commit the ultimate crime?
Motive: Years of professional setbacks and rejections could have built a reservoir of resentment in Loretta. Ben Glenroy's evident disdain for her might have been the catalyst that pushed her over the edge. After all, when dreams are repeatedly crushed, what's left but despair and, possibly, vengeance?
Means: As an actress, Loretta would have had access to a myriad of props, including those that could be harmful if misused. The theater is a world where illusion meets reality, and Loretta, with her years of experience, would know how to blur those lines.
Theory: Given her background and the immediate tension with Ben, Loretta might have poisoned an item she knew Ben would consume, leading to his initial, shocking collapse on stage. The theater's backstage is a maze of props, costumes, and personal items, providing ample opportunity for a quick switch or subtle tampering.
Evidence: The most compelling evidence against Loretta is her tumultuous relationship with Ben. Their interactions, filled with palpable tension, suggest a deep-seated animosity. Moreover, her desperation to finally succeed, combined with Ben's dismissive attitude, creates a potent mix of motive.
IV. Oliver
Oliver, the visionary behind the play "Death Rattle," is a character of depth and complexity. His decision to cast Loretta, despite her evident nervousness and Ben's objections, speaks to a protective, almost paternal nature. But could there be darker motives lurking beneath his directorial facade?
Motive: Oliver's immediate bond with Loretta suggests a deeper connection. Perhaps he saw in her a reflection of his own struggles in the world of theater. Ben's negative influence and potential threat to Loretta's role might have been perceived as a direct affront to Oliver's vision and choices.
Means: As the director, Oliver would have unparalleled access to the entire theater. He would know the ins and outs, the hidden nooks and crannies, and the mechanics of every prop and piece of equipment, including the elevator.
Theory: Given his comprehensive knowledge of the theater's workings, Oliver could have tampered with the elevator mechanism, leading to Ben's tragic fall. Such a method would be indirect, distancing the perpetrator from the act, while ensuring the desired outcome.
Evidence: Oliver's unwavering support for Loretta, even in the face of criticism, hints at a deeper emotional investment. His intimate knowledge of the theater's workings, combined with his potential motive to protect Loretta and his vision for the play, places him firmly on the list of suspects.
V. Kimber
Kimber, with her radiant presence and undeniable charm, is a force to be reckoned with on the stage. From the moment she enters the scene, it's evident that she shares a unique chemistry with Ben Glenroy. But could this chemistry be masking deeper, more sinister emotions?
Motive: Personal relationships, especially in the high-stakes world of theater, are rife with complications. Perhaps a past romantic entanglement or a professional rivalry with Ben could have given rise to feelings of resentment or betrayal.
Means: Being in close proximity to Ben due to their roles, Kimber would have had ample opportunities to interact with him, both on and off the stage. This closeness could have allowed her to exploit any vulnerabilities or secrets Ben might have had.
Theory: Kimber, with her knowledge of Ben's personal habits, might have been aware of any allergies or health conditions he had. A subtle tampering with his food or drink, or even a prop he frequently interacted with, could have been her method of choice.
Evidence: Ben's immediate and intense flirtation with Kimber suggests a history between the two. Whether this history was romantic or professional, it's clear that their relationship was layered and potentially fraught with tension.
VI. Dickie (Ben's Assistant and Brother)
Dickie, always lurking in the shadows of his more famous brother, presents an intriguing blend of loyalty and potential envy. As Ben's assistant and brother, he's privy to the inner workings of Ben's life, both personal and professional. But does this closeness hide a deeper, darker motive?
Motive: Sibling rivalries are as old as time. With Ben's rising star and Dickie's role as the perpetual sidekick, feelings of jealousy and overshadowing could have taken root. Additionally, any financial gains from Ben's death, be it inheritance or control over his assets, could serve as a powerful motive.
Means: Dickie's intimate knowledge of Ben's daily routine, habits, and preferences would have given him numerous opportunities to plan and execute a nefarious act without arousing suspicion.
Theory: Given his constant presence by Ben's side, Dickie could have subtly tampered with Ben's strict diet or replaced an item Ben frequently consumed with something harmful.
Evidence: The dynamics of their relationship, with Dickie always in the background, suggest a potential for underlying resentment. His constant access to Ben's personal items and knowledge of his daily routine further heightens suspicion.
VII. Tobert (Cameraman)
Tobert, with his ever-present camera, captures the world of theater from behind the lens. His role in documenting Ben's Broadway debut gives him a unique perspective, allowing him to observe without being directly involved. But could this observer status have given him a unique opportunity to commit the perfect crime?
Motive: The allure of sensational footage can't be denied. A shocking twist, like the death of the lead actor, would guarantee the documentary's success, making it a sensation overnight.
Means: As a cameraman, Tobert has access to behind-the-scenes areas, allowing him to move unnoticed and observe the comings and goings of the cast and crew.
Theory: Tobert, in his quest for the perfect shot, might have staged the death for dramatic effect, ensuring that his documentary would be unforgettable.
Evidence: His primary role is to document Ben's journey, making him deeply invested in the narrative's trajectory. The more sensational the story, the more successful the documentary would be, providing Tobert with both fame and financial gain.
VIII. Weighing the Evidence
As the plot unravels, the evidence against each suspect mounts. Loretta's deep-seated resentment, Oliver's protective nature, Kimber's layered relationship with Ben, Dickie's potential envy, and Tobert's quest for the perfect story all present compelling motives. Each suspect had the means and opportunity, making the mystery even more intricate. The theater, with its blend of drama and reality, provides a backdrop where anything is possible, and everyone is a potential suspect. As the evidence is weighed and theories are dissected, the question remains: Who had the most to gain from Ben Glenroy's death?
The stage is set, the players are in place, and the mystery deepens with each passing moment. As the audience, we're left to piece together the puzzle, sifting through layers of intrigue, emotion, and deception. The final act is yet to come, and the identity of the killer remains shrouded in mystery.
IX. Speculation: The Most Likely Killer
As the narrative unfolds and the spotlight shifts from one suspect to another, the audience is drawn into a web of speculation. Each character, with their unique motives and opportunities, presents a compelling case for being the killer. But who, among this ensemble, stands out as the most likely culprit?
Loretta's journey, filled with dreams dashed and hopes crushed, paints a portrait of a woman on the edge. Her interactions with Ben, charged with tension and animosity, make her a prime suspect. Yet, would she risk it all for a moment of revenge?
Oliver's protective nature towards Loretta and his deep investment in the play's success could have driven him to desperate measures. But would he jeopardize his reputation and career for the sake of one role and one actress?
Kimber's layered relationship with Ben, fraught with past entanglements and potential betrayals, places her squarely in the spotlight. Yet, would passion and jealousy alone drive her to commit such a heinous act?
Dickie's position as the overshadowed sibling offers a motive steeped in envy and rivalry. But would familial ties be so easily severed for personal gain?
Tobert's quest for the perfect story, the ultimate twist in his documentary, presents a chilling motive. The allure of fame and success might drive many to the brink. But would he go as far as orchestrating a real-life tragedy for the sake of sensational footage?
