Reginald Hargreeves: Is He an Extraterrestrial in The Umbrella Academy?

Throughout The Umbrella Academy series, Reginald Hargreeves (alias RH) is shrouded in mystery, particularly regarding his origins. The science fiction and supernatural elements often intertwine, and his character’s past remains deliberately ambiguous. The opening scene of the final episode, in which RH appears in an altered reality, offers clues that suggest an extraterrestrial connection. This analysis explores the possibility that RH comes from another planet, an alternate timeline, or an alternate reality.

The Opening Scene and RH's Origins

The opening scene of The Umbrella Academy's final episode reveals a reality vastly different from the show's primary storyline. The levels of technology range from 19th-century silver-topped ornate flasks to 20th-century rockets and missiles, and to futuristic multi-legged machines. This mixture of technology suggests a high level of technological advancement or even magic. This scene raises the possibility of RH coming from another planet, an alternate timeline, or an alternate reality.

Time Travel and RH's Motives

The show's emphasis on time travel further supports the idea that RH could be from a future timeline. RH's clear knowledge of time travel and its potential risks implies that he is familiar with such advanced technology. However, his motive for time travel is uncertain. He claims to be trying to prevent the Apocalypse, but in the comics, it is made clear that he is from another planet. In the TV adaptation, the storyline remains vague, leaving much speculation.

Alternate Theories

Reginald Hargreeves as the Grown-Up Five

One theory suggests that RH is actually the grown-up version of Five. His familiarity with the perils of time transport supports this idea. This could mean that he has engaged in time travel himself, giving him the expertise to navigate the risks associated with it. This theory also aligns with his trustworthy manner with the remaining members of the Umbrella Academy.

RH's Motive and Manipulation

Alternatively, RH might not be trying to prevent the Apocalypse at all. His manipulation and abuse of Vanya suggest a deeper, more sinister motive. The deliberate pushing of Vanya towards destructive power could indicate that he is manipulating the timeline to fit his own agenda. This theory involves a level of foreknowledge and control, which would be consistent with the potential for time travel.

Furthermore, RH's actions towards Leonard imply a deliberate push to humble him, potentially setting in motion a chain of events that would eventually lead to Vanya’s destruction. This level of control and foresight is consistent with the ability to manipulate time, making the idea of RH being from the future more plausible.

Conclusion

While the show deliberately leaves RH's origin ambiguous, the opening scene and the emphasis on time travel offer strong hints at an extraterrestrial or alternate reality origin. The theory that RH is either from another planet, from an alternate timeline, or from an alternate reality is supported by the technology depicted and the character's actions. The true nature of RH's existence remains a captivating mystery for fans of The Umbrella Academy.