Why Jay Garrick, Not Henry Allen, on Earth-2 in The Flash

In the vast and complex multiverse of DC Comics, particularly as depicted in the The Flash series, the concept of doppelgangers has been a fascinating theme. One question that often arises is why the doppelganger of Henry Allen from Earth-2, who is known in the main continuity as Barry Allen's father, is named Jay Garrick instead of Henry Allen, just as other characters' doppelgangers share the same names as their counterparts in the original Earth.

Different Characters: Jay Garrick and Henry Allen

The doppelganger in question is Jay Garrick, who has a long and storied history in the DC Comics universe. Created in the 1940s, Jay Garrick first appeared as the Golden Age Flash, a distinct and iconic character with his own history, powers, and identity. In contrast, in the TV series and the New 52 continuity, Henry Allen is primarily known as Barry Allen's father.

In the multiverse, the concept of doppelgangers is not as simple as one might initially assume. While many characters have counterparts with similar names and roles across different Earths, some characters take on entirely different identities or roles. This unique storytelling approach allows for richer and more varied narratives within the DC universe.

Multiverse Concept and Narrative Choices

The creators of the The Flash series chose to depict Jay Garrick as a heroic figure with his own legacy, rather than simply as a version of Henry Allen. This decision reflects the unique narrative choices and character histories within the DC multiverse. Why did they make this choice?

One reason is to honor the characters' long-standing legacy in comics. By presenting Jay Garrick as a separate and distinct character, the show draws attention to the rich tapestry of the DC universe and its many storylines. Additionally, using a different name for the doppelganger allows for a different dynamic in the story. This distinction adds depth to the multiverse concept and allows for the exploration of themes like heroism and legacy through diverse lens.

Examining the Multiverse and Doppelgangers

It is important to note that the multiverse in DC Comics, especially as depicted in The Flash, is more complex than a simple reiteration of names. First, Jay Garrick is from Earth-3, a location with distinct variations of DC heroes. Second, we do not have information about the naming conventions or doppelganger laws across all Earths. The only doppelganger we have met on Earth-3 is Garrick, and we have only encountered the Earth-3 counterparts of the main Earth-1 team.

So, does everyone's doppelganger have the same name on Earth-3? Not necessarily. Every character's doppelganger might lead a different life, have different aspirations, and make different decisions. Naming a child can be a significant decision, influenced by various factors such as personal preference, cultural norms, and family influence.

The Reveal of Jay Garrick’s Background

The choice of name for Jay Garrick in the The Flash universe is further explored in the second season, specifically in the episode "Rupture." In this episode, the backstory of Jay Garrick and his origins are revealed. It turns out that his biological father was not part of his family, and he was not even married to his mother. As a result, he took his mother's surname, Garrick.

This link to Henry Allen's mother, whose maiden name was Garrick, adds an interesting layer to the character's backstory. The reason for Jay Garrick not being named Henry Garrick might be due to the influence—or lack thereof—of Grandpa Allen in his naming. This story is mentioned first in "Rupture," although no direct confirmation is provided in "The Race of His Life," another significant episode for Jay Garrick's introduction.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the distinct identity of Jay Garrick as the doppelganger of Henry Allen on Earth-2 is a result of the intricate narrative choices and character histories within the DC multiverse. It reflects the complexity and depth of this narrative space, allowing for a richer and more nuanced portrayal of characters and their stories.