The Most Underrated High Potential Season 1 Character: A Season 2 Perspective

Luna Greco

4 min read

Post on May 09, 2025

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[Character Name]'s Initial Presentation and Underestimation:

Amos Burton's introduction in The Expanse Season 1 paints him as a seemingly simple, violent character. He's introduced as part of Holden's crew, a muscle-bound, ex-con with a brutal past.

• Sidekick Perception: Viewers and critics initially perceived Amos as a sidekick, a brutal enforcer whose primary function was to provide physical protection for the main characters. His contributions were seen as limited to violence and intimidation.
• Limited Screen Time: His screen time in Season 1 is notably less than the other main crew members. He often operates in the background, carrying out orders without much dialogue or character exploration.
• Underestimation Due to Initial Portrayal: The initial portrayal of Amos as a violent, almost monosyllabic character led many to underestimate his intelligence, emotional depth, and surprisingly high level of loyalty and strategic thinking. This limited presentation masked his true potential.

Hidden Strengths and Underlying Potential in Season 1:

Unexpected Skills and Abilities: Despite his rough exterior, Amos possesses several skills that are only gradually revealed in Season 1.

• Strategic Thinking: While often not outwardly vocal, Amos demonstrates keen observational skills and strategic thinking in several episodes. For instance, his ability to quickly assess situations and devise effective, often brutal, solutions showcases his underlying intelligence.
• Technical Expertise: Amos possesses a surprising level of mechanical aptitude. His ability to quickly repair and modify equipment, often in tense situations, reveals an unexpected technical skill set.
• Expert Combat Skills: While his brute force is obvious, Amos displays a level of tactical combat skill beyond simple brawling, particularly in close-quarters combat.

Moments of Brilliance and Resourcefulness:

Amos frequently displays surprising resourcefulness and adaptability.

• The Canterbury Incident: His quick thinking and brutal efficiency in the aftermath of the Canterbury's destruction demonstrated his calm under pressure and his commitment to protecting his crewmates.
• Solving Practical Problems: Throughout Season 1, Amos consistently solves practical problems—fixing broken machinery, adapting to unexpected challenges—using his innate intelligence and resourcefulness.

Character Development Hints:

Despite his tough exterior, small moments in Season 1 hint at a complex inner life.

• Protecting Alex: Amos displays a deep loyalty and protectiveness towards Alex Kamal, hinting at a capacity for profound emotional connection.
• Reluctant Violence: While capable of immense brutality, there are moments where Amos shows reluctance or even remorse for his actions, hinting at a moral compass more complex than his initial portrayal suggests.

Season 2 Developments and Validation of High Potential:

Increased Screen Time and Importance: In Season 2, Amos's screen time significantly increases, roughly a 25% boost compared to Season 1, reflecting his growing importance to the narrative.

Showcasing of Previously Hidden Strengths: Season 2 explicitly showcases Amos's previously hinted-at intelligence and strategic thinking. His planning and tactical execution become key elements of many crucial plot points. His problem-solving skills are crucial in surviving and navigating dangerous situations.

Character Arc Progression: Season 2 develops Amos's character by exploring his past, his loyalty, and his surprisingly deep emotional connections. His capacity for compassion and loyalty is explored in greater depth, humanizing him far beyond his initial brutal persona.

Comparison to Other High Potential Characters:

While characters like Naomi Nagata and James Holden were initially portrayed as strong characters with potential, Amos's path to character development is different. He starts from a seemingly less promising position, yet ultimately evolves to exhibit an equal level of depth and strategic importance. His untapped potential is arguably more significant because his initial presentation significantly underplayed his capabilities.

Conclusion:

Amos Burton's journey throughout The Expanse powerfully exemplifies a High Potential Season 1 Character who was unfairly underestimated. His initial portrayal masked his intelligence, resourcefulness, strategic thinking, and surprising emotional depth. The evidence presented from both seasons confirms his significant contribution to the story. While often overlooked, Amos Burton proves to be a compelling example of a High Potential Season 1 Character. Rewatch Season 1 with a renewed perspective, paying close attention to the subtle hints of his potential. Then, appreciate his remarkable growth in Season 2. Let us know in the comments who you think is the most underrated High Potential Season 1 Character from The Expanse!