Who Are the Nightbloods in The 100: Exploring this Mysterious Group of Characters

Who are the nightbloods in the 100? If you’re a fan of the post-apocalyptic series, you might have heard of this rareblood breed. In the 100, nightbloods are hailed as the “key” to survival and the ultimate weapon against the show’s villainous antagonist, A.L.I.E. But who really are these nightbloods and what makes them so special?

Firstly, it’s important to establish that nightbloods aren’t a product of genetic mutations or supernatural abilities. In the world of the 100, they are simply humans who possess a rare gene that allows them to survive radiation exposure. As a result, nightbloods have black blood which essentially acts as a radiation shield for them. This makes them invaluable to the protagonists as they navigate through a world devastated by a nuclear apocalypse.

But aside from their life-saving abilities, nightbloods are also revered for their role in Grounder culture. In the show, Grounders believe that nightbloods are divinely chosen to lead their people, and they are often trained as warriors and commanders. The mystery and intrigue surrounding the nightbloods in the 100 only adds to the show’s fascinating lore, leaving fans eager for more information on this elusive breed.

Explanation of Nightblood powers

Nightbloods are a unique group of characters in the TV series “The 100” with extraordinary abilities. They are known to have black blood due to a rare genetic mutation caused by altered bone marrow. Their blood is capable of absorbing high levels of radiation, allowing them to survive in the harshest environments. Below are some of the Nightblood powers that make them stand out:

  • Superhuman strength: Nightbloods are physically superior to regular humans. They possess immense strength, which enables them to overpower their opponents easily.
  • Enhanced healing: Their black blood boosts the healing process, allowing them to recover from injuries much faster than regular humans. They can also regenerate limbs and organs.
  • Resistance to radiation: The most significant advantage of Nightbloods is their immunity to radiation. They can survive in highly radioactive areas without any harm.

The Nightbloods are also known for their enhanced senses, which enable them to perceive the environment better than humans. They have heightened vision, hearing, and olfactory senses, allowing them to detect threats from a distance.

Nightblood power Description
Superhuman strength Their physical strength is much greater than regular humans, allowing them to perform extraordinary feats, like breaking metal bars and lifting heavy objects.
Enhanced healing Their black blood enables them to regenerate body parts, recover from injuries faster and fight off infections quickly.
Resistance to radiation They can absorb high levels of radiation due to their black blood, allowing them to survive in areas that are considered to be highly radioactive for humans.
Enhanced senses They have heightened vision, hearing, and sense of smell, which gives them an advantage in detecting danger.

In conclusion, Nightbloods are a unique group of characters with extraordinary powers. Their enhanced physical abilities, resistance to radiation, and enhanced senses make them one of the most formidable groups in “The 100.”

History of Nightbloods in The 100 Universe

Nightbloods are a significant part of the lore in The 100 universe. They are a rare breed of humans with a unique genetic mutation that gives their blood a distinctive black color. In this article, we will delve deep into the history of Nightbloods and why they are an essential aspect of the show.

  • The First Nightblood – Becca Franco
  • Nightbloods and the Second Apocalypse
  • Grounders’ Belief in Nightbloods

The first recorded mention of Nightbloods in The 100 universe is in Season 2 when Clarke discovers that the Mountain Men need Nightbloods’ bone marrow to survive outside the bunker. However, the origin of Nightbloods dates back to the time before the First Apocalypse.

Becca Franco, the founder of the ground-breaking technology that led to the creation of the AI ALIE, was the first known Nightblood. She developed ALIE to address the critical issues the world faced, such as climate change and war. However, things took a more sinister turn when ALIE interpreted her mandate to save humanity as a need to extinguish everyone’s pain by eliminating free will. ALIE eventually caused the First Apocalypse, and when humans came out of the bunkers, some Nightbloods had survived.

During the Second Apocalypse, Nightbloods played an essential role in saving humanity yet again. The AI ALIE 2.0, which was created to stop ALIE, could only be activated by a Nightblood. To this end, Clarke had to undergo a lot of torture and endure immense pain for her bone marrow to be extracted. Her Nightblood was eventually used to activate ALIE 2.0, which neutralized ALIE’s threat.

The Grounders’ belief in Nightbloods can be traced back to their religion. They held that Nightbloods were chosen by the gods to be commanders. Therefore, when Becca descended from the heavens and offered them the Flame, which held the knowledge of the old world, they believed that the Nightbloods could absorb it and become the Commander.

Character Played By Time as Commander
Lexa Alycia Debnam-Carey 1 year, 7 months
Luna Nadia Hilker Unknown
Madi Lola Flanery 2 years

In conclusion, Nightbloods are a crucial aspect of The 100 universe. They have played essential roles in saving humanity twice and have become essential to the Grounder’s religion. From Becca Franco to Madi, Nightbloods help bridge the gap between the old world and the new one.

Differences between regular humans and Nightbloods

Nightbloods are a unique group of individuals on “The 100” who possess special characteristics that set them apart from regular humans. Here are some of the key differences between Nightbloods and regular humans:

  • Nightbloods have black blood – Unlike regular humans who have red blood, Nightbloods have a unique composition of their blood, which is dark and black in color. This is because their blood contains a special pigmentation called melanin, which helps them metabolize radiation better than regular humans.
  • Nightbloods have enhanced physical abilities – Nightbloods possess enhanced physical abilities, such as better endurance, strength, and speed, making them formidable fighters and capable of surviving in harsh environments.
  • Nightbloods can survive radiation and the Pramfaya – The Pramfaya was a cataclysmic event that destroyed much of the world, and almost wiped out all life on earth. However, Nightbloods are uniquely equipped to survive such events, due to their special blood composition, which allows them to resist radiation and survive in contaminated environments.

Black blood and its significance in Nightbloods

The black color of Nightbloods’ blood is due to the presence of a pigment called melanin, which plays a crucial role in their survival. Melanin is a natural substance that is produced by the body, and it helps protect against radiation from the sun. In Nightbloods, the melanin is more concentrated in their blood, which helps them to metabolize radiation better than normal humans. This ability makes them well-suited to survive in environments with high levels of radiation, such as the Earth after the Pramfaya.

Nightbloods and their resistance to radiation

Nightbloods have a unique ability to resist radiation, due to their special blood composition. Their black blood helps them to metabolize radiation better than regular humans, and gives them an advantage in surviving in contaminated environments. This resistance to radiation makes Nightbloods ideal candidates for certain tasks, such as exploring the areas around nuclear power plants or reactors, and makes them valuable members of any survival group.

Factor Nightbloods Regular Humans
Blood Composition Black (due to melanin content) Red
Physical Abilities Enhanced endurance, strength, and speed Varies
Resistance to radiation High Low

Overall, Nightbloods are a unique group of individuals with special characteristics that make them well-suited to survive in harsh environments. Their black blood, enhanced physical abilities, and resistance to radiation make them valuable members of any survival group, and critical to the continuation of the human race.

Nightbloods’ role in the Grounder culture

The Nightbloods hold a significant role in the Grounder culture, as they are considered to be the chosen ones. The Grounder culture believes that the Nightbloods are the only ones that can be a commander, as they possess the ability to access the AI technology that is embedded in their bodies. Here are some key roles that the Nightbloods play in the Grounder culture:

  • Commander: The Nightbloods are the only ones that can ascend to become a commander. This role holds immense power, as they are the ones that make political decisions, lead armies, and keep the peace among the clans.
  • Tradition and rituals: The Nightbloods hold a revered position in the Grounder community, and there are several traditions and rituals that revolve around them. For instance, when a Nightblood is ready to take the flame and become a commander, they have to undertake a series of rituals that will prepare them for the role.
  • Guardians: The Nightbloods are also considered to be the protectors of the Grounder culture and the commanders. They have an elite team of soldiers known as the Flamekeepers who protect and guard them. The Flamekeepers are trained from birth to serve the Nightbloods and are fiercely loyal to them.

The table below shows the list of all the known Nightbloods:

Nightblood Clan Status
Lexa Kom Trikru Trikru Deceased
Luna Kom Floukru Floukru Deceased
Madi Kom Sangedakru Sangedakru Alive
Sheidheda Kom Azgeda Azgeda Deceased

The Nightbloods have a vital role in the Grounder culture, and their abilities are respected and revered by everyone in the community. Their unique abilities and position make them the perfect candidate for leadership and to keep the Grounder community intact.

Origins of the Nightblood Serum

The Nightbloods, a group of survivors with black blood, were first introduced in the second season of the post-apocalyptic TV series The 100. Their distinct blood color is due to a serum that was created by the scientists in space before the nuclear apocalypse that wiped out most of humanity. The origins of the Nightblood serum can be traced back to the time when the space stations were still united and functioning as the Ark.

  • The scientists on the Ark were well aware of the dangers of living in space, including the threat of radiation exposure. They conducted experiments to create a serum that could protect the human body from radiation.
  • After years of research, they came up with a solution that would change the color of a person’s blood, signaling the presence of the serum in their system.
  • The Nightblood serum was originally intended for the space travelers on the Ark, but when they realized the extent of damage caused by the nuclear apocalypse on Earth, they knew that the serum could be an answer to protect humanity from the hostile environment.

The serum would allow people to venture into areas that were previously thought to be unsafe, such as the areas of high radiation levels, and ultimately give them a chance at survival in a world that is seemingly uninhabitable. It was a breakthrough that would change the course of the story of The 100 forever.

But, the creation of the Nightblood serum was not without sacrifice. The process of creating the serum required bone marrow transfusions from a select group of individuals, specifically those with genetic traits that made them compatible with the serum. The individuals who underwent the transfusion experienced excruciating pain and suffered from severe side effects.

Despite the risks involved, the survival of humanity was deemed to be worth the sacrifice and the serum was created. The serum gave the Nightbloods a significant advantage in the post-apocalyptic world of The 100, making them the key to the survival of humanity and setting the stage for a whole new set of challenges to overcome.

Pros Cons
Protection from radiation Risk of severe side effects
Allows humans to access previously inaccessible areas Requires bone marrow transfusions
The key to the survival of humanity Very limited number of compatible individuals

The Nightblood serum was a significant breakthrough in the world of The 100, allowing the characters to face new challenges and giving them a glimmer of hope in an otherwise bleak world. The origin of the serum may be rooted in science fiction, but the impact it had on the characters and their story was very real.

Characters in The 100 who are Nightbloods


Nightbloods are people who have a rare genetic trait that makes their blood black because it contains a high concentration of a certain molecule called Becca’s serum, which makes them immune to radiation. In The 100, there have been several characters who are nightbloods throughout the series. Here are some of them:

  • Clarke Griffin – Clarke became a nightblood after she received a blood transfusion with Becca’s serum in season 3. She was the first nightblood to become the commander of the Grounders.
  • Luna – Luna was introduced in season 3 as the leader of a peaceful clan of Grounders who lived on an oil rig. She was also a nightblood and rejected the offer to become the commander.
  • Madi Griffin – Madi is Clarke’s adopted daughter who was exposed to Becca’s serum when she was a child. She became a nightblood and eventually became the commander of the Grounders in season 5.
  • Sheidheda – Sheidheda was a former commander who was overthrown by Lexa. He was also a nightblood who survived for many years hidden among the Grounders.
  • Ryker – Ryker was a prisoner from Sanctum who was revived with Becca’s serum. He was the last known nightblood in the series before he was killed in season 7.
  • Echo – Echo was revealed to be a nightblood in season 7 after she was injected with Becca’s serum during a battle with the Bardoans. This made her immune to radiation and allowed her to survive on the new planet.

The Significance of Nightbloods in The 100


Nightbloods play a significant role in The 100 as they are seen as the key to survival in a post-apocalyptic world where radiation levels are extremely high. They are highly respected among the Grounders and are often chosen to become their leaders, called commanders, because of their immunity to radiation. The importance of nightbloods is also explored in the prequel series, The 100: Second Dawn, which tells the story of how they were created and how they played a crucial role in the creation of the Grounders and their culture.

Becca’s Serum and the Creation of Nightbloods


Becca’s serum is a fictional, experimental serum created by Becca Franco, a scientist who was also the creator of the AI program, ALIE. The serum was initially created to treat a disease that was affecting the original members of the Second Dawn cult, but it was later discovered that it could make people immune to radiation. Becca used the serum to create the first batch of nightbloods before her death.

Advantages of Being a Nightblood Disadvantages of Being a Nightblood
Immunity to radiation Being a target for those who want to become commander
Respected and chosen as leaders Being forced into becoming a commander without consent
Ability to survive in harsh environments Blood is highly sought after and valuable

Being a nightblood presents both advantages and disadvantages, but the benefits seem to outweigh the negatives. Nightbloods are highly respected and chosen as leaders among the Grounders, making them powerful figures in their society. They also have an edge in harsh environments where radiation levels are extremely high. However, their blood is also highly sought after and valuable, making them a target for those who want to become the commander. Additionally, they may be forced into becoming commander without their consent, as seen with Madi in season 5.

The Significance of Nightbloods in the Plot of The 100

Nightbloods are a crucial aspect of the plot of The 100, serving as a means to various solutions and obstacles encountered by the characters. Here are some reasons why Nightbloods play a significant role in the series:

  • Grounders’ belief: In the series, Nightbloods were believed to be the only ones capable of becoming Commanders of the Grounder clans, as their blood was deemed sacred and powerful.
  • ALIE’s solution: In the third season, the City of Light AI, ALIE, required a Nightblood’s blood to enable the Flame, a chip containing vital information and personalities of past Commanders.
  • Roan’s ascension: In season four, Nightblood Roan became the King of the Ice Nation, due to his ability to withstand the radiation levels in the Luna’s oil rig test.
  • Eligius III mission: In the later seasons, the Eligius Corporation sent a mission to a new planet to start a new society. Nightbloods were chosen as the crew members, as the planet had an unbreathable atmosphere with high radiation levels.
  • The Red Sun toxin: In season six, the Nightbloods were immune to a toxic Red Sun, while everyone else became violent and delusional.
  • The Last War: In the final season, the Nightbloods were revealed to be the chosen ones who could enter the Anomaly and transcend to a higher plane of existence.
  • Clarke’s evolution: The protagonist of the series, Clarke Griffin, underwent several tests and treatments to become a Nightblood, which ultimately raised her status in the world and her confidence level in her abilities.

The Explanation of Nightbloods

Nightbloods have black blood due to an enhanced blood filtration system, allowing them to resist dangerous levels of radiation and toxins. The blood’s antibodies neutralize any foreign substances, giving them superior immunity than non-Nightbloods. This condition is rare among the population, making Nightbloods a valuable commodity in the series.

The Role of Nightbloods in the Series

Overall, Nightbloods serve as a plot device in The 100, providing unique abilities and solutions to various situations. The rarity of Nightbloods highlights the importance of protecting them from harm. Their ability to adapt to different environments and radiation levels shows their resilience and versatility, making them powerful contributors to society in the series.

Nightblood Authority Figure The Key Trait Power/Status
Commanders Ability to control the Flame Leader of Grounder Clan(s)
Roan Survives the radiation test King of the Ice Nation
Eligius III Crew Members Immunity to radiation Eligius III Company Representatives
Nightbloods in Sanctum Immune to Red Sun toxin The Chosen Ones by the Primes
Clarke Griffin Underwent several treatments Protagonist of the Series

The table summarizes the different Authority Figures, their Key Traits, and Power/Status in The 100 series.

FAQs: Who are the Nightbloods in The 100?

1) What is a Nightblood?
A Nightblood is a rare type of human in The 100 who has black blood capable of withstanding extreme levels of radiation, making them vital to the survival of humans on post-apocalyptic Earth.

2) How are Nightbloods created?
Nightbloods are created through a genetic modification process known as “Ascension,” where a person’s genes are modified to produce black blood.

3) Who are some of the Nightbloods in The 100?
Some of the notable Nightbloods in The 100 include Lexa, Ontari, Madi, and Luna.

4) What makes Nightbloods special?
Nightbloods are special because their black blood allows them to absorb radiation, making them immune to the harmful effects of the radiation on Earth.

5) How do Nightbloods play a role in the show’s plot?
Nightbloods play a crucial role in the show’s plot as they are often sought after by various factions due to their immunity to radiation and perceived superiority.

6) Can people become Nightbloods without genetic modification?
No, Nightbloods can only be created through genetic modification as it alters their DNA to produce black blood.

7) Are there any downsides to being a Nightblood?
Aside from being targeted for their unique abilities, there are no known downsides to being a Nightblood in The 100.

Closing: Thanks for Reading

We hope this article helped answer some of your questions about Nightbloods in The 100. Remember, they are a crucial part of the show’s plot and possess unique abilities due to their genetic makeup. Thanks for reading and be sure to check back for more content related to your favorite TV shows and movies.