Gary Goodspeed, the main protagonist of Olan Rogers’ animated series ‘Final Space,’ is a complex character who always surprises us.
He’s a well-meaning goofball, catapulted into a universe of alien wars, time travel, and boundless cosmic peril. At first glance, Gary’s quirky, impulsive nature can come off as simple comic relief. But, as we delve deeper into his story, we realize he is more than just a hapless spaceman.
Who is Gary Goodspeed?
His character is a rich tapestry of wit, courage, resilience, and pure human emotion. Gary’s character grows and evolves throughout the series – transforming from an ex-con pilot into a bona fide hero.
The show carefully balances his comedic charm with a sense of vulnerability, adding depth to his character.
Place of origin: Earth
Faction: Team Squad, The Resistance
Occupation
- Captain
- Convicted Felon (formerly)
- Mechanic (formerly)
Birthday: June 11
Age: 32
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Gary’s Appearance
Gary, a tall and thin man with bushy blonde hair, sports different looks throughout the series. During his time on Galaxy One, he wore a red jumpsuit adorned with a teal belt, gloves, boots, and a white triangular collar featuring the Infinity Guard symbol.
After his prison sentence ends, he switches to his civilian attire: a red shirt with a blue circle on the chest, a brown leather jacket, blue jeans, a black belt with a large silver buckle, and brown boots.
In “Chapter 2,” when Gary loses his arm, Mooncake proposes a cybernetic replacement by using a S.A.M.E.S.’ arm (specifically Rob’s). Avocato volunteers to perform the surgery, cementing their friendship.
As Season 2 kicks off, Gary adopts a more rugged appearance, keeping his outfit mostly unchanged, except for the blue circle on his shirt, which becomes orange. His hair also gains a fluffier appearance compared to Season 1.
Gary’s Journey
One of the defining moments in Gary’s life was his five-year solitary confinement aboard the spaceship Galaxy One. This isolation, brought upon him by his reckless actions, was a turning point. The imprisonment transformed him into a more responsible individual who valued relationships, friendship, and camaraderie.
In an exciting blend of comedy and drama, Gary’s journey of self-discovery begins when he encounters Mooncake, an adorable yet destructive alien.
This event triggers a series of adventures where Gary faces trials that test his courage, loyalty, and leadership. His transformation from a reluctant hero into a stalwart savior of the universe is a riveting narrative arc that hooks the audience to the show.
Gary and Mooncake
A central aspect of ‘Final Space’ is the dynamic relationship between Gary and Mooncake. This bond elevates the show from an ordinary space adventure to an emotional exploration of friendship and mutual growth. Mooncake, a planet-destroying alien, is often the source of Gary’s troubles and joy. Yet, Gary considers Mooncake his best friend, demonstrating his deep-seated loyalty and commitment.
The relationship between Gary and Mooncake is genuine and endearing. Their camaraderie, sacrifice, and bonding moments provide some of the most heartwarming scenes in the series. It’s a testament to the show’s writing that a relationship between a human and a nearly indescribable alien entity can resonate deeply with audiences.
Abilities and Equipment
Prosthetic Arm: Gary’s left arm, once ripped off by Lord Commander, was replaced with a mechanical prosthetic, a relic from the S.A.M.E.S., thanks to Avocato. As unveiled in “One of Us,” this arm can morph into a laser gun or sword, mirroring S.A.M.E.S.’ functionality.
Piloting: As a novice in spacecraft handling, depicted in a flashback pre-arrest scene in Chapter One, Gary progressively enhances his piloting skills and familiarity with the vessels he commands. “The Sixth Key” suggests that Gary aspired to be an Infinity Guard pilot in his youth.
Thievery: Gary’s thieving skills are well-established, seen successfully stealing various items, including a piece of jewelry in Chapter One, a dimensional key in “The Remembered,” and sneakily acquiring another key from Sheryl in “Descent Into Darkness.” The origin of these skills remains unclear.
Energy Weapon Proficiency: Gary, like many series characters, is adept in handling various laser weaponry and is a skilled marksman.
Gary Goodspeed Personality
Initially, Gary was immature and arrogant but matured significantly throughout the series. He tends to excessive talking, or ‘word-diarrhea,’ likely a condition called logorrhea.
His deep space isolation amplified his craving for companionship, evidenced by his loyalty to Mooncake and Avocato, despite getting into trouble due to them. He still maintains an irritable disposition towards KVN, regardless of his loneliness.
Gary’s emotional growth is stunted, likely due to his father’s early death. Series creator Olan Rogers suggests that Gary’s lively and cheerful character masks his grief. His mother’s abandonment during childhood and years without human contact also shaped his personality. Although Gary is over thirty, his demeanor resembles someone in their twenties, reflecting his age when imprisoned.
Gary and Quinn’s Relationship
In the ever-evolving narrative of ‘Final Space’, one of the core threads is the burgeoning romantic relationship between Gary and his long-time love interest, Quinn Ergon. Their relationship develops from an awkward infatuation on Gary’s part into a deep bond of trust, affection, and shared purpose.
Their journey from strangers to reluctant partners and then to something more is interwoven with their shared mission to save the universe. It’s a testament to their resilience and dedication.
Their relationship is not portrayed as smooth or straightforward but rather as a complex, evolving bond. Through their shared trials, their relationship deepens, and their personalities evolve, giving the audience an engaging and evolving love story amidst the chaos of their cosmic adventures.
Gary and H.U.E
The relationship between Gary and H.U.E., the ship’s A.I., further underscores the theme of friendship in ‘Final Space’. Beginning as a forced companionship during Gary’s solitary confinement, their relationship gradually evolves into a genuine friendship.
Despite being an artificial intelligence, H.U.E. showcases empathy and concern for Gary, often offering him advice and guidance. In return, Gary respects and values H.U.E.’s presence, recognizing his indispensability.
Their bond highlights the essence of Gary’s character – his ability to forge profound relationships, even with non-human entities. It’s a testament to the show’s nuanced portrayal of relationships, transcending the usual boundaries and exploring connections in the most unexpected places.
KVN – One-Sided Nemesis
KVN, Gary’s Deep Space Insanity Avoidance Companion, ironically drives Gary insane due to his irritating and clingy demeanor. Their relationship has been tumultuous over five years, with Gary expressing immediate dislike upon meeting KVN and frequently showing annoyance at KVN’s actions, no matter how minor.
While KVN seeks friendship, he mostly exasperates Gary. Still, it is implied that Gary’s hatred may not be genuine. Despite initial relief, he allows KVN in group activities and shows distress at KVN’s death. In season two, Gary shows less hostility, entrusts tasks to KVN, and tolerates his hugs, albeit with annoyance.
John Goodspeed – Father
Gary’s father and an Infinity Guard member, John Goodspeed, was present during Gary’s early childhood. He gifted Gary a caterpillar, ‘Mooncake,’ before leaving on a mission. Tragically, his ship exploded shortly after takeoff, marking their final moments together.
Sheryl Goodspeed – Mother
After Gary’s father’s death, his mother, Sheryl, abandoned him. She is enigmatic, known mainly for collecting dimensional keys for an undisclosed reason. Their strained relationship further deteriorates when she steals the keys from Gary, landing her in a cell. Following successful therapy with Tribore, she acknowledges Gary as her son, and they collaborate in the final battle.
Gary & John Beat Up Jack
FAQ
Who are Gary’s parents?
Gary’s parents are John and Sheryl Goodspeed. John, his father, was an Infinity Guard member who died in a spaceship explosion when Gary was young. Sheryl, his mother, abandoned him after his father’s death.
Why does Gary have a prosthetic arm?
Gary’s left arm was replaced with a mechanical prosthetic after the Lord Commander ripped it off in Chapter Two.
What skills does Gary possess?
Gary is shown to be an adept pilot, a competent thief, and proficient in using energy weapons. He also has a mechanical prosthetic arm capable of turning into a laser gun or sword.
How does Gary’s character develop throughout the series?
Initially immature and arrogant, Gary matures significantly throughout the series, evolving into a more responsible and emotionally complex character. His personal growth is shaped by his relationships, adversities, and isolation in deep space.
What is Gary’s connection with Mooncake?
Mooncake is a small, green, planet-destroying alien who Gary befriends. Despite Mooncake’s destructive power, Gary sees him as a companion and staunchly defends him against those who wish to use Mooncake’s powers for evil.