‘Manhunt’ Episode 3 Takeaway: John Wilkes Booth plans to flee to Richmond to evade arrest

'Manhunt' on Apple TV+ delves into the aftermath of President Abraham Lincoln's assassination
PUBLISHED MAR 22, 2024
Anthony Boyle as John Wilkes Booth in a still from 'Manhunt' (@AppleTV+)
Anthony Boyle as John Wilkes Booth in a still from 'Manhunt' (@AppleTV+)

Spoilers for ‘Manhunt’ Episode 3 on AppleTV+

ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND: 'Manhunt' Episode 3 is now available to stream on Apple TV+, continuing the captivating narrative that explores the aftermath of President Abraham Lincoln's assassination. 

In this episode, the series delves further into the intricate challenges of the Reconstruction era, offering a nuanced exploration of the tensions and conflicts following Lincoln's assassination. 

There's a lot to explore and unpack in 'Manhunt' Episode 3. So, let's jump in!

John Wilkes Booth prepares an escape route to Richmond in Episode 3 of 'Manhunt'

Anthony Boyle in
Anthony Boyle as John Wilkes Booth in a still from 'Manhunt' (@AppleTV+)

Episode 3 of 'Manhunt,' titled 'Let the Sheep Flee,' opens with John Wilkes Booth (Anthony Boyle) dreaming of becoming the president of the Confederacy.

Awakening abruptly from his dream, Booth hastily formulates a plan to journey to Richmond. He informs David Herold (Will Harrison) of his intentions, enlisting his help for the daring escape to Richmond.

Booth's ambition is to achieve fame and recognition in the aftermath of the assassination, aspiring to be hailed as the second president of the Confederacy. He believes that this goal can only be achieved if he successfully reaches Richmond, Virginia.

Confident in his abilities to evade capture, Booth is determined that he can achieve his goal by reaching Richmond.

Confederate spy Sam Cox offers assistance to Booth for his journey

Anthony Boyle as John Wilkes Booth in a still from 'Manhunt' (@AppleTV+)
Anthony Boyle as John Wilkes Booth in a still from 'Manhunt' (@AppleTV+)

As the episode progresses further, Booth crosses paths with a Confederate spy named Sam Cox, who offers assistance for his journey.

As a member of the Confederate Secret Service, the man expresses gratitude to Booth for assassinating President Abraham Lincoln (Hamish Linklater), underscoring the depth of admiration Booth has among certain factions sympathetic to the Confederate cause.

Booth yearns to be hailed as a national hero by Confederate sympathizers, harboring unwavering confidence that Richmond will accord him the recognition he desires.

Booth inquires with Sam about directions to Richmond, only to be cautioned that the Confederate capital lies in ruins. Sam proposes Montreal as a potentially better destination for Booth.

Herold attempts to persuade Booth to consider fleeing to Mexico as a safer option, but Booth adamantly refuses. Booth remains steadfast in his desire to be in Richmond.

As the episode progresses further, Booth and Herold encounter the River Ghost, a mysterious figure seemingly assisting their escape.

The River Ghost reveals that he orchestrates every aspect of Booth and Herold's departure. While they await further instructions, Booth becomes aware of the horses' distress due to the food shortage. He decides to shoot and kill his horse.

Will John Wilkes Booth's daring escape to Richmond succeed, or will he face insurmountable obstacles along the way? Only time will tell.

‘Manhunt’ Episode 3 is now streaming on AppleTV+

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