HBO is bringing back its supernatural drama True Blood tonight for the show’s fifth season, hot on the heels of a second consecutive outstanding season of Game of Thrones. Unlike Thrones which seems to be building momentum as it ages, True Blood has become the victim of creative meandering the past couple seasons as it struggles to find a direction and purpose. Spoilers follow for those whom have not seen the Season 4 finale.
When we last left True Blood, Tara sacrificed herself to save Sookie (Anna Paquin) from a blast by Debbie Pelt (Brit Morgan). Sookie took care of Debbie for good, but was left cradling Tara on the floor while her friend’s brains appeared to have departed her head.
The fate of Tara was the single most sought after answer entering Season 5. Tara actress Rutina Wesley has been involved in HBO’s press rounds so the more specific question is not whether Tara returns, but how she returns. Anything is a possibility in a world loaded with supernatural forces.
A new bromance between Bill (Stephen Moyer) and Eric (Alexander Skarsgard) was set up after the pair disposed of their former Vampire Authority boss Nan. Expect repercussions from their actions as Season 5 gets underway as the Authority won’t take kindly to their homicidal actions. Just don’t expect the Vampire Authority to come onto the scene just yet, despite their strong appearance in various promotional materials.
Terry (Todd Lowe) has a new man in his life, former Marine and war pal Patrick (Scott Foley). His arrival times with the mysterious fire that burned down Terry and Arlene’s (Carrie Preston) home. Patrick obviously isn’t in town to make Terry and Arlene’s life any easier.
A big reveal in the Season 4 finale was the return of Steven Newlin (Michael McMillian), the former vampire hater who has become a bloodsucker himself. What does he want with Jason (Ryan Kwanten)? And how will wild child Jessica (Deborah Ann Woll) fit into this equation?
This is the season that True Blood will deliver the long-awaited Pam (Kristin Bauer van Straten) and Eric backstory. Pam has never liked Sookie, and she’ll find herself all up in the young faerie’s business before long.
Look for newcomer Lucy Griffiths to make a quick impact in True Blood when she makes her big debut. Russell Edgington’s (Denis O’Hare) return will not be swift or fulfilling, at least not yet.
Enjoy the collection of images, trailers and clips from the True Blood: Season 5 premiere ‘Turn! Turn! Turn!’ below. Catch the big True Blood return tonight on HBO at 9/8c to see if showrunner Alan Ball and his team have managed to meet steep narrative expectations. Also be sure to check out our True Blood: Season 5 giveaway featuring a chance to win an autographed still from one of the show’s new characters.
