Prison Break is a popular American television series that first aired in 2005. The show centers around Michael Scofield, who devises an elaborate plan to break his brother, Lincoln Burrows, out of prison. Lincoln is wrongfully convicted of a crime he didn’t commit, and his brother Michael’s goal is to get him out before he is executed. As the series unfolds, Lincoln’s fate takes several twists and turns, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
In this article, we will explore what happens to Lincoln Burrows throughout the Prison Break series, examining his character development, the various challenges he faces, and the emotional journey he undertakes. From the moment he’s sentenced to death to his eventual fate, Lincoln’s storyline is packed with suspense, drama, and redemption. This in-depth look at his journey will provide a comprehensive understanding of his character’s role and significance in the series.
Lincoln’s Wrongful Conviction and the Beginning of His Story
Lincoln Burrows, portrayed by actor Dominic Purcell, is introduced as the brother of Michael Scofield. At the beginning of the series, Lincoln is on death row, convicted of the murder of the vice president’s brother, Terrence Steadman. However, as the show progresses, it becomes clear that Lincoln is innocent. His conviction is part of a larger conspiracy involving powerful political figures, and Michael’s goal is to prove his brother’s innocence.
In the first season, the audience learns that Lincoln has been wrongfully convicted, and Michael takes drastic measures to break him out of prison. Michael carefully plans his brother’s escape from Fox River State Penitentiary, a high-security prison in Illinois. He gets himself arrested and sent to the same prison, where he carries out his plan with the help of a carefully selected group of inmates.
The early episodes of Prison Break focus on Lincoln’s emotional struggle. He grapples with the reality of being on death row, facing execution for a crime he didn’t commit. The emotional toll on Lincoln is evident, and the audience can’t help but sympathize with his plight. His relationship with Michael is central to the storyline, and their bond becomes even stronger as they work together to escape.
The Breakout: Lincoln’s Escape from Fox River
In season 1, Lincoln becomes the key focus of Michael’s elaborate escape plan. Michael, who has a detailed blueprint of Fox River tattooed on his body, uses his intelligence to find ways to break out of the prison. Throughout the season, Lincoln becomes increasingly aware of Michael’s plan, and while initially skeptical, he comes to trust his brother’s genius.
The escape is one of the most dramatic moments in the series, and it marks a major turning point in Lincoln’s fate. After a series of obstacles, including an unexpected prison riot, Lincoln successfully escapes with Michael and a few other inmates. However, the escape doesn’t solve all of Lincoln’s problems. While free, he is still a fugitive, and the conspiracy that led to his wrongful conviction continues to pursue him.
The escape highlights Lincoln’s growth as a character. Initially, he is a man broken by the weight of his wrongful conviction and the pressure of impending death. But as he escapes Fox River and gains a new sense of freedom, he begins to regain his confidence and sense of purpose. The escape is just the beginning of his journey, and it sets the stage for the challenges he will face in subsequent seasons.
The Second Season: The Fugitive
In the second season, Lincoln and Michael are on the run. They are pursued by law enforcement, including FBI agent Alexander Mahone, who becomes a key antagonist in the series. The show delves deeper into Lincoln’s character as he adjusts to life as a fugitive. Despite his freedom, Lincoln’s life is anything but stable. He faces constant threats, not only from the law but from the shadowy figures behind the conspiracy that framed him.
Lincoln’s relationship with his brother Michael continues to evolve, with the two of them facing life-threatening situations together. Lincoln struggles with his own personal demons, especially the fact that he was willing to give up his own life to clear his name. His relationship with his son, LJ Burrows, is another key aspect of his emotional journey in this season. He tries to protect his son from the dangers surrounding him, but the consequences of the conspiracy are far-reaching and affect everyone around him.
In addition to the personal challenges, Lincoln faces external threats as well. He is pursued by agents of “The Company,” the mysterious organization responsible for his wrongful conviction. These dangerous forces put pressure on Lincoln, and his ability to stay ahead of them becomes a constant source of tension.
The Third Season: A New Prison and More Challenges
In season 3, Lincoln faces new challenges when he is once again incarcerated. This time, he is sent to Sona, a notorious Panamanian prison, where he must fight for survival in a dangerous and lawless environment. Michael is forced to break into Sona to rescue Lincoln, but this new prison presents even more dangers than Fox River. The conditions in Sona are brutal, and Lincoln must navigate a world full of violent criminals, corrupt officials, and brutal prison politics.
During his time in Sona, Lincoln experiences a different kind of prison life. Unlike Fox River, where he had some support from his brother and other inmates, Sona is a place where he is constantly on guard. He must rely on his instincts and physical strength to survive. Despite the harsh conditions, Lincoln remains determined to escape once again, but the stakes are higher than ever. The season is marked by intense action, and Lincoln’s survival becomes more uncertain as the story progresses.
The Fourth Season: Confronting the Conspiracy
In the fourth season of Prison Break, Lincoln’s role shifts as he works alongside Michael and other former inmates to take down “The Company” once and for all. The central conflict of this season is focused on stopping the shadowy organization that has been pulling the strings behind Lincoln’s wrongful conviction. Lincoln’s character undergoes significant development as he shifts from being a fugitive to a man seeking justice.
Throughout this season, Lincoln becomes more active in fighting against the organization that wronged him. He takes on more of a leadership role, working with Michael and others to uncover the secrets of “The Company” and bring those responsible to justice. Lincoln’s actions in this season are driven by a deep sense of personal revenge, as well as a desire to protect his loved ones.
One of the most notable aspects of Lincoln’s character in this season is his newfound sense of responsibility. He has been through a lot, but his experiences have shaped him into a more focused and determined man. He is no longer the broken man he was in the first season, and by the end of season 4, Lincoln has come full circle, confronting his past and the conspirators who ruined his life.
The Series Finale: Lincoln’s Fate
In the final season of Prison Break, Lincoln’s fate is ultimately tied to Michael’s final mission. In the last few episodes, Michael sacrifices himself for the greater good, ensuring that his family and loved ones are safe. Lincoln, who has always relied on Michael for guidance and support, is left to pick up the pieces after his brother’s death.
The conclusion of Lincoln’s journey is bittersweet. On one hand, he has regained his freedom and cleared his name, but on the other, he must now live with the loss of his brother. Lincoln’s character development throughout the series has been remarkable, and by the end of the show, he has evolved from a man on death row to someone who has faced incredible adversity and come out stronger on the other side.
Conclusion
Lincoln Burrows’ journey in Prison Break is one of transformation, endurance, and redemption. From his wrongful conviction to his daring escapes, Lincoln’s story is a testament to the strength of family bonds and the power of determination. His character arc is filled with moments of vulnerability, strength, and growth, making him one of the most compelling figures in the series.
Throughout the series, Lincoln’s fate is continually shaped by the choices he makes and the people he interacts with, particularly his brother Michael. His storyline is filled with twists and turns, making him one of the most memorable characters in television history. Ultimately, while Lincoln’s journey may have ended with tragedy, it also serves as a reminder of the power of resilience and the importance of seeking justice.
