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Introducing The Umbrella Academy Season 3 Newbies, the Sparrow Academy
Season two of The Umbrella Academy left us on the ultimate cliffhanger, and as production on the confirmed third season prepares to kick off, we’re slowly learning more about the series’s biggest mystery: the Sparrow Academy.
On Monday, Netflix unveiled the six actors – and one existential-dread-inducing psykronium cube – who will be joining the Umbrella Academy cast to bring fans the seven siblings revealed to have taken their place in the surprising ending of season two. Readers of the Gerard Way-penned graphic novels have already met the Sparrow Academy in The Umbrella Academy: Hotel Oblivion. The siblings, who will be featured in volume four of the novel series, don’t seem like they’re rivals to the Hargreeves in the novels, but that may differ on the show. From what we’ve learned from Netflix’s press release, the Sparrows are quite different from how they appear in the graphic novels, so there’s no telling how the show will shake these up for the third season!
But until we learn more, let’s dig into everything we know about the Sparrow Academy, including their actors.
Marcus, Sparrow #1 (Played by Justin Cornwell)
Marcus is described as a “charming, chiseled, colossus.” Much like Luther, his power is his strength, and he’s said to be “honest, virtuous, and demanding.” He keeps the family together, is graceful but lethal, calculated but compassionate, and unlike the Umbrella Academy‘s number one, he’s as smart as he is strong. Marcus is disciplined, rational, and in control. He oozes confidence and leadership without ever having to raise his voice.
Marcus is only known as Number One in his graphic novel appearance, and he refers to Luther as “brother,” a nod to their relationship as two of the 43 children born under curious circumstances on October 1, 1989. From his description, he seems to be a more level-headed leader than his counterpart and notably hasn’t been modified the same way. It looks like Reginald learned his lesson about using risky procedures on his children.
Ben, Sparrow #2 (Played by Justin H. Min)
As we saw in his brief appearance in the finale, this is not the sweet Ben we know and love. Described as a “Machiavellian tactician, wrapped up in a pretty boy body with a rumbling inner-squid,” this version of Ben is vicious, pragmatic, and hyper-vigilant. Similar to the Umbrella Academy‘s number two, Ben has visions of becoming the leader. Unlike Diego, Ben seems to be a bit more ruthless about ascending his rank, ready to move up at all costs.
In the graphic novels, the Sparrow Academy doesn’t have an alternate Ben, and none of them have his ability. We assume that Ben retains his power to summon monsters from other dimensions and manifest them through his body. Since it seems like the Sparrow Academy benefitted from a more aware Sir Reginald, it’s safe to assume that Ben has been able to grow his powers and can summon more monsters with more skill. But does a more cutthroat version of Ben mean trouble for the Umbrella Academy? Will he use their appearance to make a play for the lead spot on the Sparrows’ team, or will he try to overtake the Hargreeves? They did let an alternate version of him die at a young age!
Fei, Sparrow #3 (Played by Britne Oldford)
Although we don’t know what Fei’s ability is, we do know that most of the time, she’s the smartest person in the room and willing to work things out. (Sounds a lot like our number three, Allison.) She’s described as someone who “sees the world in a special way,” which could be a hint at her power. While Fei may come across as a misanthrope, she secretly wishes she had a friend. But if you cross her, there’s no looking back because Fei won’t stop until the job is done.
Will Fei’s ability to see the world differently help or hinder the Hargreeves in season three? It seems like she’s their most likely bet for an ally on the Sparrows, but knowing them, they’ll probably screw it up. Here’s hoping she finds a friend, and not a foe, on the team!
Alphonso, Sparrow #4 (Played by Jake Epstein)
Alphonso is said to have “countless visual reminders of his battles,” after years of crime-fighting. He’s also armed with a caustic and biting sense of humor, which is a power all in its own! Number four is another sibling whose abilities are under wraps, but it sounds like he’s used to a lot of physical combat. The only thing Alphonso likes better than verbally battering anyone is a good pizza and a six-pack of beer. A simple man with simple pleasures.
Sloane, Sparrow #5 (Played by Genesis Rodriguez)
Sloane might be the most mysterious Sparrow sibling yet, aside from the floating cube, of course. She’s described as a “romantic and a dreamer who feels a higher cosmic calling leaving her eager to see the world and experience a life beyond her upbringing.” Her familial obligations keep Sloane tethered to the Academy, but so does her fear of crossing the family line. But apparently Sloane has plans and we wonder if the introduction of the Hargreeves will be the catalyst she needs to act on them.
Jayme, Sparrow #6 (Played by Cazzie David)
Jayme is described as a loner hidden under a hoodie who doesn’t say much because she doesn’t have to. We’re not sure if it’s her power, but Jayme has a fear-inducing snarl that’ll send anyone running across the street to avoid what follows. We just wish we knew what that was! Alphonso is her only friend, which makes us wonder about the relationship between the Sparrow Academy members.