Erik is a recurring character in TNT's Snowpiercer. He is portrayed by Matt Murray.
A loyal bodyguard and protector to LJ Folger, it is eventually revealed that he is the killer aboard Snowpiercer, albeit under the influence of LJ.[1]
History
Background
Little is known about Erik's early life, other than his humble beginnings and hatred for his white father. After enlisting in the Marines, he was hired as Private Security for LJ Folger following the extinction event.[1]
Throughout The Series
The Murder
Erik is presented as a loyal protector of LJ Folger and a respected member aboard Snowpiercer. Following Nikki Genêt's awakening, Erik murders her before she is able to reveal anything about the murder of Sean Wise.[2]
Erik is unable to return to First following the murder, however, given that there is a lockdown in place due to Fight Night. Instead, he hides out in a storage container. He is later found by Bess and Oz when Layton figures out that he could be responsible for the killing. He takes Jinju Seong hostage in an attempt to flee Commander Grey and the Brakemen. He is unsuccessful, however, and is axed to death but not before shooting a control panel of the train which may cause a future problem to the train.[1]
Layton eventually realises that Erik did not commit the murders out of hatred, but due to LJ's influence, who actually wanted the people dead.[1]
Personality
Erik was devoted to his protection of LJ Folger and the Folger family, having saved LJ prior to the boarding of Snowpiercer. His affection and caring nature towards her persisted, and Lilah remarked that he raised her and would do no harm to her.
Despite his caring nature, however, he was susceptible to her negative influence, and murdered both Sean Wise and Nikki Genêt on her orders. Despite almost being caught, he did not give up his connection to LJ, however. Though he took Jinju hostage, Erik never did her any harm even when cornered, suggesting that his actions were not completely cold blooded and he was just desperate during the kidnapping, but not enough to harm or kill an innocent person. Notably, while on the run despite having a gun when everyone else didn't, Erik aimed more to frighten than to actually cause harm, both to his pursuers and other innocents.
Appearances
Trivia
- He was allowed to bring only two bags on the train.
- In one of the bags he brought his father's records.