The following contains spoilers for Paradise season 1 episode 8, "The Man Who Kept The Secrets," now streaming on HuluParadise has played with lots of genres across the course of season 1, shifting from political thriller to sci-fi to character drama to action movie with ease. As Paradise's characters discover several revelations across season 1.It's a strength in season 1, but could become the show's best asset in season 2.

The ending of Paradise season 1 sees the entire world open up to the town of Paradise, with Xavier Collins venturing into the great unknown of the surface. In his wake, a number of characters, both major and minor, are set up to take new positions of authority in season 2. One of them is even quietly set up to be a more frightening character than they initially appear, which could make them an easy new villain for the show. Here are the factions developing in Paradise season 1's finale and how it sets up the villain of season 2.

How Henry Baines Is Set Up As The Villain Of Paradise Season 2

How Baines Goes From A Bit Player To A Potential Threat

President Henry Baines is set up in the final minutes of Paradise season 1 to be a more dangerous figure than anyone expected and could easily become the main villain of season 2. Henry has been a source of comedy in Paradise so far, with the clumsy and overwhelmed Vice President often lagging behind Cal Bradford whenever they were seen together. Even after Cal's murder, Henry was used more as a tool than anything else by Redmond as she tried to retain control of the situation. However, Henry is quick to take Redmond's chair after she's shot.

This is a worrying turn, as Baines is in the perfect position to cement himself as a true villain in Paradise season 2.

While the scene initially seems to be undermining him while the rest of the wealthy elites bicker, his sudden burst of anger catches their attention and silences the room. This is a worrying turn, as Baines is in the perfect position to cement himself as a true villain in Paradise season 2. He has clear ambition and pride, something Redmond was able to previously manipulate to her advantage. The fact that he's now in charge of the government means he could cause serious problems for everyone in the town of Paradise.

Jeremy Is Increasing The Power Struggle Ahead Of Paradise Season 2

Jeremy Bradford Could Become A Natural Opposition To Henry Baines

While Henry becomes President following the death of Cal Bradford as part of a democratic norm, Cal's son Jeremy seems to be getting his own following. After learning the truth about the scientists that Redmond had killed, Jeremy is quick to reveal it to the other citizens of the town. By the end of Paradise season 1, many citizens are seen flocking to Jeremy. This seems to set up Jeremy as a voice for the people that has little concern for what the elite upper class of Paradise can say about the situation.

Flashbacks exploring more of Jeremy's backstory in season 2 could allow James Marsden to reprise his role as Cal in future episodes.

A child of privilege willing to throw it away for the right reasons, Jeremy is positioned to be a major force for good in Paradise season 2. His popularity might keep him safe from some external threats. However, Jeremy's doubts about the powerful elite who doomed the world in the first place will likely make him an easy opponent for Baines. If Baines tries to crack down on dissent to assure his power or follows in Redmond's ruthless tactics, it's likely that the son of his former running mate may prove to be the greatest thorn in his side.

Robinson Is Set To Be Paradise's Main Hero Going Forward

With Xavier Out Of Paradise, Robinson Must Keep Their Allies Together

Agent Robinson began Paradise bristling against Xavier Collins and following the orders of Samantha Redmond, setting her up as a force for authority in the town. However, as the revelations about Redmond began to pile up, Robinson came to suspect her of killing Cal. Robinson allying with Xavier was a major turn in Paradise season 1, and set the stage for her to become a major figure in the future of the town. Season 1 ends with Robinson leading the security forces and watching over Xavier's children while he ventures out to the surface.

The most notable aspect of Robinson's role in the final moments of Paradise is her blunt appraisal of the current power structure, noting that Redmond might be gone, but someone will fill her place. This clear discontent with the ruling class of Paradise sets the stage for Robinson to be another figurehead in season 2, potentially even fighting for control. Her position means she has to work for President Baines, but if he takes a villainous turn she would likely turn on him. Robinson's protection of Presley could give her unique opportunities to interact with Jeremy.

Paradise's Season 1 Finale Sets Up A Lot Of Wildcards

Paradise's Cast Is Full Of Characters Who Could Shift The Future With Ease

Paradise season 1 establishes a shaky balance of power within the town going forward, with the likes of Baines, Robinson, and Jeremy all likely working at odds. However, there are a number of wildcards still in the mix that could shift the balance of power with ease. Gabriela is shown to be shaken by her experiences propping up Redmond. Now regretful that she has been championing a "monster" all along, Gabriela's intellect and awareness of the town citizens might make her an ideal figure for Robinson to keep working with going forward.

While Redmond has been seriously injured, her amount of wealth and influence in the construction of Paradise might ensure she retains authority in the town. She could try to stage a comeback or even hope to find redemption after realizing the full scope of what she'd become in the name of protecting her family. Jane remains the most dangerous character in Paradise, a genuinely unpredictable killer who is willing to murder a teenager for a Nintendo Wii and shoot her boss for getting in her way. All three could seriously impact the arc of season 2.

Paradise Season 2 Could Expose A Shattered Community To The World

Xavier's Mission Could Endanger All Of Paradise

On top of all these twists and turns for the characters of Paradise is the reveal at the end of the episode that Xavier is embarking on a journey to the surface. While he's specifically looking for his wife Teri, Cal seems committed to also finding other settlements and locating other survivors. With any luck, Xavier could open up communications with other communities, even help reestablish a larger society. However, with that possibility comes risks. Redmond wasn't necessarily wrong to be wary of what millions of angry survivors could do to Paradise.

As reported by Screen Rant, Paradise has been renewed for a second season. Creator Dan Fogelman has also hinted that the story has a three-season master plan.

Xavier could encounter groups that want nothing to do with the sheltered community. Worse still, he could accidently lead people back to Paradise who intend to take it by force. Even if Xavier does return with new possible allies, Paradise could fall to infighting and internal conflict long before another soul reaches the town. Paradise season 1 ends on a tantalizingly open-ended note, which could set the stage for all sorts of potential directions in the season 2.