Tom Keen: The Blacklist Character - His Story & Fate
Who was the enigmatic Tom Keen, and what legacy did he leave behind? Tom Keen, initially known as Christopher Hargrave and also going by Jacob Phelps, wasn't just a character; he was a linchpin in the narrative of the first five seasons of NBC's hit series, The Blacklist. His complex persona, shrouded in mystery and deception, captivated audiences and significantly shaped the trajectory of the show's storyline.
Tom Keen's presence in The Blacklist served as a catalyst, triggering major plot twists and profound character revelations. His actions often drove the narrative forward, forcing other characters to confront uncomfortable truths and make difficult choices. He was a master of disguise, a skilled operative, and, at times, a loving husband and father. His impact on the series was undeniable.
Here is a detailed look at the life and career of the man behind the many faces, Tom Keen, played by Ryan Eggold:
| Full Name: | Thomas Vincent Keen (born Christopher Hargrave) |
| Aliases: | Jacob Phelps |
| Born: | Unknown (Kidnapped at age 3) |
| Played by: | Ryan Eggold |
| Marital Status: | Married to Elizabeth Keen (deceased) |
| Children: | Agnes Keen |
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| Affiliations: |
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| First Appearance (The Blacklist): | "Pilot" (Season 1, Episode 1) |
| Last Appearance (The Blacklist): | "Mr. Kaplan" (Season 5, Episode 8) |
| Cause of Death: | Killed by Ian Garvey's henchmen |
| Notable Relationships: | Elizabeth Keen (Wife) |
| Known for: | His complicated relationship with Elizabeth Keen, his skills as an operative, and his multiple identities. |
| Reference: | Wikipedia - The Blacklist |
Born as Christopher Hargrave, Tom Keen's early life was marked by tragedy and manipulation. Kidnapped from his parents, Susan and Howard Hargrave, at the tender age of three, his formative years were spent in the shadows, unaware of his true identity. This early trauma shaped him into a chameleon, adept at adopting different personas and navigating the treacherous world of espionage and crime. He also was an orphan who started stealing from a young age. He was recruited by a spy known as Major in 1994. As an adult, he was hired by Berlin to watch over Elizabeth Keen. His past was a tapestry of secrets, deceit, and the constant struggle to reconcile his true self with the roles he was forced to play.
Recruited in his youth, Tom Keen's journey took him through the dark underbelly of the criminal world. He became a master of disguise and a skilled operative, working for various organizations and individuals. His assignments often involved subterfuge and manipulation, blurring the lines between good and evil. He was later hired to monitor Elizabeth Keen for Berlin, a mission that would change his life forever. His skills were honed through years of experience, making him a formidable force to be reckoned with.
As The Blacklist unfolded, Tom Keen's relationship with Elizabeth Keen became a central element of the series. Initially hired to observe her, he fell in love with Elizabeth, leading to a complex and often tumultuous relationship. Their marriage was far from conventional, filled with secrets, betrayals, and moments of genuine affection. Tom's dedication to Elizabeth, despite his past, revealed a softer side of his character. As a result of his affection, he was fired, a consequence of his entanglement with Elizabeth.
His presence in The Blacklist undeniably left its mark, serving as a catalyst for significant plot developments and character transformations. His actions, often driven by his loyalty to Elizabeth and his own internal conflicts, propelled the story forward. His decisions and actions often drove the plot forward, leading to many unexpected twists and turns. These decisions often put him at odds with other characters, including Raymond Reddington, another key player in Elizabeth's life.
The series explored the intricacies of his character, unveiling his vulnerabilities and motivations. Through his interactions with Elizabeth, viewers saw glimpses of the man behind the masks. Tom Keen's death, which occurred during the midseason finale after being attacked by Ian Garvey, marked a turning point for the series. His death scene from The Blacklist season 5 episode 8, showed a glimpse into the future, with Liz waking up from a coma only to learn from Raymond that Tom has died. The emotional weight of his final moments with Elizabeth, where he expressed his love for her, underscored the depth of his feelings and the tragedy of his demise.
The actor Ryan Eggold, who brought Tom Keen to life, delivered a performance that resonated with audiences. Eggold's portrayal of Tom Keen, with his multiple identities and dark past, captivated viewers. He skillfully conveyed Tom's internal struggles, his capacity for both ruthlessness and tenderness. Eggold's performance became a fan favorite. In season five, the series saw the death of the character, and although many believe he is still alive, the reasons for his departure were clear from the start.
His death, a significant event in the show's narrative, was revealed in the fall finale episode of season 5. His passing sent shockwaves through the storyline, especially as Elizabeth awakens from a coma 10 months later to learn of his fate. The fall finale delivered on its promise by finally revealing the fate of tom keen. It was clear that he did not survive.
Tom Keen's role extended beyond The Blacklist. He also starred in Redemption, an American crime thriller television series that aired on NBC from February 23 to April 13, 2017. Redemption starred Famke Janssen as Susan "Scottie" Hargrave, president of Halcyon Aegis, a private military company, and Ryan Eggold as Tom Keen. This series offered a deeper dive into Tom's background and his connection to Scottie Hargrave. It further cemented his place as a complex and multifaceted character in the Blacklist universe.
Even after his death, Tom Keen's influence continued to be felt in The Blacklist. His memory haunted the characters he left behind, particularly Elizabeth. His actions, both past and present, continued to shape their decisions and influence the narrative. His character's intricate history and multifaceted nature ensure that his legacy will persist.
The character, born as Christopher Hargrave, was a man of many identities. He was a devoted husband, a caring father, and a dangerous operative. His journey was filled with deception, love, and loss. From his early days as a street thief to his final moments, Tom Keen remained an enigma, captivating audiences with his complex personality. He was always one of the most mysterious characters on The Blacklist. What were his true intentions?
As the series progressed, Tom Keen's actions often served as a catalyst for major plot twists and character revelations, underscoring the importance of his role within the narrative. His story is a testament to the impact of a well-developed character on a show's overall success.
Tom Keen's evolution, from the mysterious stranger to Elizabeth's loving partner, was a central component of The Blacklist. While his life was cut short, his impact remains, solidifying his place in television history.
