The Subtle Rick Detail That Could Provide Huge Clues In Rick And Morty
Even some of the most casual TV viewers probably know that "Rick and Morty" is one of the most popular animated series around. Having been renewed through Season 10 back when it was only going into Season 4, Justin Roiland and Dan Harmon's ridiculous science-fiction comedy shows no signs of slowing down any time soon (via Inverse).
According to Rolling Stone, "Rick and Morty" was originally inspired by the relationship between Doctor Emmett L. Brown (Christopher Lloyd) and Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) in "Back to the Future," and it certainly shows. The series follows mad scientist Rick Sanchez (Justin Roiland) and his anxious yet adventurous grandson Morty Smith (also Justin Roiland). As the two travel through dimensions and wreak havoc with Rick's many inventions, the animated series gets increasingly absurd and meta along the way.
Although the show regularly descends into madcap insanity, there is also a beating heart beneath the silliness. As Rick struggles with various vices, "Rick and Morty" is often as sad as it is funny. The animated comedy is also often noted for its plethora of hidden Easter Eggs (see this detail about dead flies or this sad detail about Rick's unhealthy habit, for example). Interestingly, some "Rick and Morty" fans may have uncovered another tidbit of information regarding Rick's addiction. In fact, it's been hiding in plain sight since the very beginning.
Rick's skin tone changes when he's healthy
On the r/rickandmorty subreddit, u/vanech21 posted their observations regarding the change in Rick's skin tone throughout the series. "I thought this might interest you. It confirms that Rick's skin color is his psychological corruption." The user posted three examples of Rick's skin tone in the thread, two from healthier times and one where Rick is excessively using drugs and alcohol.
In the former examples, Rick's skin hue is more pink and natural, whereas his skin is closer to a grayish color in the latter. Since the show is so often noted for sneaking elements like this throughout the series, it seems unlikely that this "Rick and Morty" detail is just an accident. In another comment, u/Regal-30- jumped on board with the theory, also noting, "In Tales from the Citadel, the baby Rick has a noticeably brighter skin tone."
Other comments were largely supportive. For example, u/KarmaChamelon89 also responded, "If anything, this is just them getting super meta and paying attention to details." Considering Dan Harmon's involvement in "Rick and Morty," it seems unlikely that this element is just a coincidence, as in "Community," the writer spent multiple seasons paying off a variety of background jokes (via Wired).
While "Rick and Morty" has never been shy about leaning into the darkness behind its central character and the cruel, uncaring nature of the universe, it's undeniably impressive that such a key detail could be hiding right in front of our eyes, and only a few people noticed.
If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction issues, help is available. Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website or contact SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).