The Righteous Gemstones‘ final season has finally arrived, but with no signs of the main cast in its debut episode, this has sparked concern among fans. Created by Danny McBride, the televangelist comedy featured an unexpected guest star this season. Episode 1 brings in none other than Oscar-nominated actor Bradley Cooper. Despite the exciting surprise, fans are still eager to know when the original cast will be back in the show.
Here’s everything to know about why The Righteous Gemstones’ main cast was not present in Season 4, Episode 1.
Why did The Righteous Gemstones’ main cast not appear in Season 4, Episode 1?
The debut episode of The Righteous Gemstones Season 4 took a surprising turn as it did not feature the main cast. Instead, it served as a prequel, setting the stage for the family’s past.
Titled “Prelude,” Episode 1 transports viewers back to the Civil War era in 1862. Since the story is set in the past, none of the present-day main cast makes an appearance. Instead, the episode introduces Bradley Cooper as Eli’s grandfather—a key Gemstone ancestor who takes center stage.
The narrative follows Elijah Gemstone’s journey as a fraudster and murderer. He unexpectedly finds himself on a path to redemption after a near-death experience. The episode begins with Elijah stealing a gold-plated Bible from Abel Grieves after killing him. When Elijah discovers that Grieves has been appointed as a military chaplain for the Confederates with a lucrative salary, he sees an opportunity. Determined to take advantage, he assumes the identity of his victim and enlists in the military. However, a life-altering encounter with Union soldiers deeply shakes his criminal mindset, setting the stage for his transformation.
When will The Righteous Gemstones’ main cast return?
The main cast of The Righteous Gemstones is set to return next week, bringing fans back to the drama and humor they love.
The first episode primarily served as an origin story, shedding light on the Gemstone family’s beginnings. It explored how their family business came to be and the extraordinary events that shaped its foundation. However, fans need not worry — next week’s episode will bring back all the beloved main characters in full action.
Titled “You Hurled Me Into the Depths, Into the Very Heart of the Seas,” the episode is scheduled to air on March 16.
The Righteous Gemstones features Danny McBride in the lead role, alongside Adam DeVine, Edi Patterson, Tony Cavalero, Cassidy Freeman, Greg Alan Williams, and more.
