Overview
- Pugsley’s submissive traits create a contrasting dynamic with the assertive Wednesday.
- The second season of Wednesday sees Pugsley stepping into his unique identity.
- This character growth adds warmth and complexity to the Addams Family storyline.
In Tim Burton’s adaptation of the Addams Family, the spinoff series focuses on Wednesday, who initially portrays herself as a protector to her younger brother, Pugsley. A telling moment occurs when she discovers him stuffed inside his locker, an apple in his mouth and his limbs bound. This marks the beginning of a rescue mission that highlights their sibling relationship, with Wednesday declaring, “The only person who gets to torture my brother is me,”right before she unleashes piranhas upon his bullies.
While this established Wednesday as a fierce guardian during the first season, it’s essential for the second season to evolve their interaction. Although Season 1 excelled by placing emphasis on Wednesday’s emotionally reserved character as she navigated the mysteries of Nevermore Academy, it is now time to spotlight Pugsley and provide him with a narrative arc that stands on its own.
Pugsley as an Underrepresented Character
Throughout the first season of Wednesday, Pugsley’s submissive demeanor provided a stark contrast to his sister’s assertive nature, allowing for a dynamic interplay. Before they part ways at Nevermore Academy, Wednesday coolly withholds affection, leaving him with a biting remark:
Pugsley, you’re soft and weak. You’ll never survive without me. I give you two months, tops.
To this, Pugsley responds with genuine warmth, stating, “I’m gonna miss you, too, sis.”His easy-going and kind traits serve to balance Wednesday’s more cynical disposition. As Season 2 approaches, it becomes imperative for Pugsley to emerge from the background, where he was primarily relegated in Season 1—focused on Wednesday’s journey. With the entire Addams family expected to take on more significant roles, Pugsley is ripe for development and exploration.
Pugsley Takes Center Stage in Episode 5
In Episode 5, titled “You Reap What You Woe,”the Addams family pays a visit to Wednesday, enriching the narrative around their family dynamics. A pivotal moment for Pugsley arises when a longstanding case against their father, Gomez, resurfaces, leading to Pugsley’s wrongful arrest concerning Morticia’s stalker, Garrett Gates.
Amidst this tension, Pugsley openly confides in Dr. Valerie Kinbott about missing Wednesday’s presence at home. When news of their father’s alleged crime breaks, rather than showing distress, he reacts with amusement, underscoring a playful hint of mischief within him. This facet is showcased when he mistakes potpourri for candy and eats it during a therapy session while discussing Gomez’s situation.
The aftermath of Gomez’s arrest reveals a different side of Pugsley. In a heartfelt conversation by the lake, he humorously mentions that he has always imagined being the first in the family to land in jail, prompting Wednesday to share an ongoing bet she has with Lurch. As Pugsley asks for her help to uncover the truth about that dreadful night at Rave’N, he demonstrates emotional depth and the willingness to support their mother, stepping beyond the role of the naive younger sibling. This suggests that Pugsley possesses untapped potential for both comedic and insightful storytelling that the series has yet to fully realize. His observant nature, shared with Morticia, often leads him to see more than what others perceive.
Pugsley’s Time to Shine in Season 2
Traditionally, Pugsley has been depicted as a mischievous sidekick to Wednesday. However, the Netflix series portrays him as a more compassionate and reflective character, making his story arc ripe for expansion in Season 2. Unlike his sister, Pugsley embraces his emotions and encourages Wednesday to view their family more positively. His emotional intelligence and sensitivity present an ideal contrast to Wednesday’s often cynical perspective, suggesting he could enhance the emotional narrative of the series substantially.
Envisioning a more developed Pugsley who might even enroll at Nevermore Academy opens numerous avenues for engaging plots. Transitioning from Nancy Reagan High School to Nevermore could position him as a leader among new students, potentially forming alliances with characters like Eugene Ottinger, Enid, and, of course, his sister, Wednesday.
Now is the time for Pugsley to break free from the archetype of the “little brother”and claim his narrative space. The creative team led by Burton should explore richer storylines that not only enhance Pugsley’s character but give the entire Addams family their well-deserved spotlight.
Wednesday Season 2 is set to premiere sometime in 2025.