🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 110 (from laksa031)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa110.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a36698221/rick-and-morty-season-5-episode-1-review/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a36698221/rick-and-morty-season-5-episode-1-review/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a36698221\/rick-and-morty-season-5-episode-1-review\/","crawl_time":1776715655,"first_indexed_time":1623719312,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,digitalspy!www,\/tv\/ustv\/a36698221\/rick-and-morty-season-5-episode-1-review\/ s443","src_root_hash":"14293390321184698510","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Rick and Morty season 5 ep 1 starts to fix its biggest problem","meta_descriptions":["Rick and Morty season 5 episode 1 review – The premiere doesn't reset the status quo, which means more serialised character development might be on the horizon."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Rick and Morty\nseason 5 episode 1 spoilers follow.\nRick and Morty\nkicks\nseason five\noff\nin schwifty fashion with a bunch of alternate-reality crystals that hint at the endless possibilities of the multiverse. \"Were we Blades in that one?\" Rick asks during this cold open. Yes, ever so briefly, we get to see Rick and Morty decked out in their slickest Wesley Snipes attire. And in the episode that follows,\nRick and Morty\nfinally starts to open itself up to a more traditional, but no less important possibility.\nIn this first scene, Morty is in charge for once, and while we don't know what happened beforehand, Rick is clearly in bad shape. That means it's up to his grandson to rescue them both, but as their ship crashes through the atmosphere, it appears that all hope is lost. That is, until Jessica calls Morty up and asks if they can hang out.\nDriven by his horny teen desires, Morty makes one last go of it and lands their ship in the ocean, bringing them both to safety. Except, they're not really safe at all, because the sea is a no-go zone for the Smith family. By entering this space, Rick has violated his agreement with Nimbus, an even hornier sea king who is somehow Rick's \"greatest nemesis\".\nChannel 4\nThis opening sets up a typically deranged episode full of time distortion, robot birds, and uncomfortable orgies. Essentially, it's the\nRick and Morty\nthat fans know and love. But more importantly than that, this episode doesn't reset the status quo, which is a welcome change for this show.\nThings are looking up for Morty in season five. Jessica is actually up for hanging out and he survived the crash intact, so that's also a big bonus. There's just one problem – his grandfather. With Nimbus heading to the Smith house for dinner, Rick wants his grandson to go fetch him some wine from another dimension, but Morty is fed up of being treated like an errand boy.\nThe cracks were already beginning to show a bit in season four, but just a few minutes into season five, Morty finally vents his frustrations, complaining to Rick that he hasn't finished a whole week of school in years thanks to his grandfather. After that, Morty does end up going to get the wine, kicking off an epic revenge story which spans multiple dimensions and eons of time itself. But what's crucial here is that Morty no longer takes Rick's abuse at face value.\nAfter years of mistreatment, Morty is ready to stand up for himself, and it looks like all of his inter-dimensional travels have hardened him too. \"Sometimes you've gotta be an asshole,\" Morty says after murdering generations of people who believe him to be an evil god. \"My grandfather taught me that.\"\nMorty's not the only one who's changing either. Summer is way more adventurous than she used to be and their parents are also evolving, particularly when it comes to the intricacies of their marriage. And by intricacies, we mean them deciding to bang Nimbus together in a government-approved three-way.\nThat's a marked change from season four, which mostly dealt with standalone stories that did little to advance the overarching story. To be fair though, it's easy to see why that happened.\nChannel 4\nIf every episode dramatically moved things forward, the writers might reach their endgame far too quickly, and that would be tough given the\n70-episode order\nthey need to fulfil. The success of one-off adventures like the Emmy-winning\n'Vat of Acid Episode'\nfurther proved that standalone stories are vital to the show's appeal, but that hasn't stopped fans from wanting more.\nFrom\nEvil Morty\nto\nthat\nTalking Cat\n, the demand to see beloved characters and story arcs return has increased more and more in recent years. Fan pressure shouldn't always be the guiding force behind creative decisions, not by any means, but there is something to be said for character development too. Five seasons in, the Smiths need to evolve and grow more to keep fans invested. And would it be so bad to finally give us some answers to at least some of the\nshow's biggest mysteries\n?\nIf this first episode is anything to go by, then\nRick and Morty\ndefinitely seems more concerned with tackling these issues in season five. Rick even addresses this directly when he tells Nimbus, \"Don't establish canonical backstory with me.\" Is that just a knowing acknowledgement of the show's new leanings or will the likes of\nDiane, Rick's ex-wife\n, actually resurface at some point soon?\nSpeaking to\nDigital Spy\nand other press just recently, show creator Dan Harmon discussed all this in more detail:\n\"\nIt's really weird in animation because obviously Morty has to be 14 forever. Summer is 17 forever. Rick is whatever he is forever. So that question becomes like: do your characters grow and change? I'm firmly against that reset-button-hitting where it's like there's no awareness present. I look at it as like smoking meat versus cooking it. You let the flavour itself happen, and let that change things.\"\nThe challenges that Dan describes here are not unique to\nRick and Morty\n. Most animated sitcoms have to balance accessibility with character development for longterm fans, and this issue only becomes more apparent the longer each show is on the air. After all,\nThe Simpsons\nhas already proved that longevity can be a curse if not handled right, but with plenty of seasons to go, it's refreshing to see that\nRick and Morty\nis now starting to reckon with this more in season five.\nAdult Swim\n\"Morty is getting sick of Rick’s crap,\" Harmon continued. \"And he should. We wouldn't want to watch him wake up every day and go, 'I wonder what my loving grandpa has planned for me?'\"\nDan's right, and it's reassuring to hear him acknowledge this, but that's not to say everything's suddenly perfect now. Following the events of season four, it does feel odd that\nSpace Beth\ndoesn't make an appearance here, and Rick's downbeat ending is also pretty much ignored.\nBut for now, we'll give\nRick and Morty\nthe benefit of the doubt. After all, it's impossible to judge an entire season based on just one episode, and writer Scott Marder has promised that fans will indeed get some \"\nepic canon\n\" beyond the first episode. Let's just hope that the rest of season five invests in more emotional beats along with the laughs or before long, the possibility of another renewal will be looking less and less likely in any dimension.\nRick and Morty\nairs on Adult Swim in the US, and on E4 and All 4 in the UK.\nCartoon Network Rick and Morty season 4 DVD\nCredit: Adult Swim\nSpirit Entertainment Rick and Morty Season 1-3 [Blu-Ray]\nCredit: Spirit Entertainment\nFunko Rick Funko Pop! Vinyl\nCredit: Funko\nFunko Morty Funko Pop! Vinyl\nCredit: Funko\nFunko Pickle Rick with Laser Figure Funko Pop! Vinyl\nCredit: Funko\nFunko Mr Meeseeks Funko Pop! Vinyl\nNow 10% Off\nCredit: Funko\nCartoon Network Rick and Morty men's hooded sweatshirt\nCredit: Adult Swim\nCartoon Network Rick and Morty women's sweatshirt\nCredit: Adult Swim\nNumskull Rainbow Morty Christmas Jumper\nCredit: Rick and Morty\nWinning Moves Rick and Morty Monopoly Board Game\nCredit: Hasbro\nCryptozoic Entertainment Rick and Morty Total Rickall Cooperative Card Game\nCredit: Cryptozoic\nWinning Moves Rick and Morty Cluedo Board Game\nNow 11% Off\nCredit: Winning Moves\nTop Trumps Rick and Morty Top Trumps Card Game\nCredit: Top Trumps\nThis month, Digital Spy Magazine counts down the 50 greatest LGBTQ+ TV characters since the Stonewall riots. Read every issue now with\na 1-month free trial, only on Apple News+\n.\nInterested in Digital Spy's weekly newsletter?\nSign up\nto get it sent straight to your inbox – and don't forget to join our\nWatch This Facebook Group\nfor daily TV recommendations and discussions with other readers.\nAfter teaching in England and South Korea, David turned to writing in Germany, where he covered everything from superhero movies to the Berlin Film Festival. \nIn 2019, David moved to London to join\nDigital Spy\n,\nwhere he could indulge his love of comics, horror and\nLGBTQ+\nstorytelling as Deputy TV Editor, and later, as Acting TV Editor.\nDavid has spoken on numerous LGBTQ+ panels to discuss queer representation and in 2020, he created the Rainbow Crew interview series, which celebrates LGBTQ+ talent on both sides of the camera via video content and longform reads.\nBeyond that, David has interviewed all your faves, including Henry Cavill, Pedro Pascal, Olivia Colman, Patrick Stewart, Ncuti Gatwa, Jamie Dornan, Regina King, and more — not to mention countless\nDrag Race\nlegends. \nAs a freelance entertainment journalist, David has bylines across a range of publications including\nEmpire Online,\nRadio Times\n, INTO, Highsnobiety,\nDen of Geek\n, The Digital Fix\nand\nSight & Sound\n. \nLinkedIn","attrs_markdown":"[![Search](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/_assets\/design-tokens\/fre\/static\/icons\/search.f1c199c.svg?primary=%2523ffffff)Search](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/search\/)\n\n![Close](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/_assets\/design-tokens\/fre\/static\/icons\/close.38e3324.svg?primary=%2523ffffff)\n***\n- [Latest News](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/contenttype\/news\/)\n- [TV](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/)\n- [Movies](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/movies\/)\n- [Soaps](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/soaps\/)\n- [Streaming Guide](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/a70049607\/streaming-guide\/)\n- [All Videos](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/videos\/)\n- [Newsletter](https:\/\/link.digitalspy.co.uk\/join\/signup-digital-spy)\n- [Forums](https:\/\/forums.digitalspy.com\/)\n- [Follow](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/#\/)\n- [Cookies Policy](http:\/\/www.hearst.co.uk\/cookies-policy)\n\n[Privacy Notice](http:\/\/www.hearst.co.uk\/privacy-notice)[Terms Of Use](http:\/\/www.hearst.co.uk\/terms-and-conditions\/)\n\n[Skip to Content](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a36698221\/rick-and-morty-season-5-episode-1-review\/#main-content)\n\n[![Logo](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/_assets\/design-tokens\/digitalspy\/static\/images\/logos\/logo.9d2bac0.svg?primary=%2523ffffff)](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/)\n\n- [TV](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/)\n- [Movies](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/movies\/)\n- [Soaps](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/soaps\/)\n- [Tech](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tech\/)\n- [News](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/news\/)\n- [Streaming Guide](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/a70049607\/streaming-guide\/)\n\n[Forums](https:\/\/forums.digitalspy.com\/)\n\n[Newsletter](https:\/\/link.digitalspy.co.uk\/join\/signup-digital-spy-allnewsletters)\n\n[Wuthering Heights review](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/movies\/a70284509\/wuthering-heights-review\/)\n\n[Bridgerton merch](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/g69989042\/bridgerton-gifts-merchandise\/)\n\n[Death in Paradise schedule](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/a70343398\/why-death-in-paradise-isnt-on-tv-tonight-how-to-watch\/)\n\n[How to watch Eternity](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/movies\/a70344785\/watch-eternity-movie-streaming-apple-tv\/)\n\n[Corrie spoilers](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/soaps\/coronation-street\/a70312016\/coronation-street-spoilers-debbie-ronnie-jodie\/)\n\nWe earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.\n\n![Play Icon](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/_assets\/design-tokens\/fre\/static\/icons\/play.db7c035.svg?primary=%2523ffffff)\n\n![rick and morty season 5](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vidthumb\/images\/rick-and-morty-season-5-1617148043.jpg?crop=0.896xw:1.00xh;0.00801xw,0)\n\n1. [TV](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/)\n2. [US TV](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/)\n3. [Rick and Morty season 5 is starting to fix the show's biggest problem](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a36698221\/rick-and-morty-season-5-episode-1-review\/)\n# Rick and Morty season 5 is starting to fix the show's biggest problem\nBut is it too little, too late?\n\nBy [David Opie](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/author\/628115\/david-opie\/ \"David Opie\")\n\nPublished: 14 June 2021\n\n***Rick and Morty* season 5 episode 1 spoilers follow.**\n\n*[Rick and Morty](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/rick-and-morty\/)* kicks [season five](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a30104312\/rick-and-morty-season-5-release-date-episodes-cast-trailer\/) off in schwifty fashion with a bunch of alternate-reality crystals that hint at the endless possibilities of the multiverse. \"Were we Blades in that one?\" Rick asks during this cold open. Yes, ever so briefly, we get to see Rick and Morty decked out in their slickest Wesley Snipes attire. And in the episode that follows, *Rick and Morty* finally starts to open itself up to a more traditional, but no less important possibility.\n\nIn this first scene, Morty is in charge for once, and while we don't know what happened beforehand, Rick is clearly in bad shape. That means it's up to his grandson to rescue them both, but as their ship crashes through the atmosphere, it appears that all hope is lost. That is, until Jessica calls Morty up and asks if they can hang out.\n\n## What to Read Next\nDriven by his horny teen desires, Morty makes one last go of it and lands their ship in the ocean, bringing them both to safety. Except, they're not really safe at all, because the sea is a no-go zone for the Smith family. By entering this space, Rick has violated his agreement with Nimbus, an even hornier sea king who is somehow Rick's \"greatest nemesis\".\n\n![rick and morty season 5](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/hmg-prod\/images\/rick-and-morty-season-5-1623424070.jpg?crop=0.563xw:1.00xh;0.266xw,0&resize=980:*)\n\nChannel 4\n\nThis opening sets up a typically deranged episode full of time distortion, robot birds, and uncomfortable orgies. Essentially, it's the *Rick and Morty* that fans know and love. But more importantly than that, this episode doesn't reset the status quo, which is a welcome change for this show.\n\nThings are looking up for Morty in season five. Jessica is actually up for hanging out and he survived the crash intact, so that's also a big bonus. There's just one problem – his grandfather. With Nimbus heading to the Smith house for dinner, Rick wants his grandson to go fetch him some wine from another dimension, but Morty is fed up of being treated like an errand boy.\n\nThe cracks were already beginning to show a bit in season four, but just a few minutes into season five, Morty finally vents his frustrations, complaining to Rick that he hasn't finished a whole week of school in years thanks to his grandfather. After that, Morty does end up going to get the wine, kicking off an epic revenge story which spans multiple dimensions and eons of time itself. But what's crucial here is that Morty no longer takes Rick's abuse at face value.\n\n###### Related Story\n- [![](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vidthumb\/images\/rick-morty-1571997817.jpg?crop=1.00xw:0.890xh;0,0&resize=300:*)Big Rick and Morty puzzle to be solved in season 5](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a32930021\/rick-and-morty-season-5-wife-beths-mother-mrs-sanchez\/)\n\nAfter years of mistreatment, Morty is ready to stand up for himself, and it looks like all of his inter-dimensional travels have hardened him too. \"Sometimes you've gotta be an asshole,\" Morty says after murdering generations of people who believe him to be an evil god. \"My grandfather taught me that.\"\n\nMorty's not the only one who's changing either. Summer is way more adventurous than she used to be and their parents are also evolving, particularly when it comes to the intricacies of their marriage. And by intricacies, we mean them deciding to bang Nimbus together in a government-approved three-way.\n\nThat's a marked change from season four, which mostly dealt with standalone stories that did little to advance the overarching story. To be fair though, it's easy to see why that happened.\n\n![rick and morty season 5](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/hmg-prod\/images\/rick-and-morty-season-5-2-1623424070.jpg?crop=0.5625xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)\n\nChannel 4\n\nIf every episode dramatically moved things forward, the writers might reach their endgame far too quickly, and that would be tough given the [70-episode order](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a856811\/rick-and-morty-renewed-70-episodes\/) they need to fulfil. The success of one-off adventures like the Emmy-winning ['Vat of Acid Episode'](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a32573853\/rick-and-morty-south-park-easter-egg-twist\/) further proved that standalone stories are vital to the show's appeal, but that hasn't stopped fans from wanting more.\n\nFrom [Evil Morty](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a32613249\/rick-and-morty-season-4-evil-morty-origin\/) to *that* [Talking Cat](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a34756901\/rick-and-morty-talking-cat-meaning\/), the demand to see beloved characters and story arcs return has increased more and more in recent years. Fan pressure shouldn't always be the guiding force behind creative decisions, not by any means, but there is something to be said for character development too. Five seasons in, the Smiths need to evolve and grow more to keep fans invested. And would it be so bad to finally give us some answers to at least some of the [show's biggest mysteries](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a33544469\/rick-and-morty-fan-theory-anime-genocider\/)?\n\nIf this first episode is anything to go by, then *Rick and Morty* definitely seems more concerned with tackling these issues in season five. Rick even addresses this directly when he tells Nimbus, \"Don't establish canonical backstory with me.\" Is that just a knowing acknowledgement of the show's new leanings or will the likes of [Diane, Rick's ex-wife](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a32930021\/rick-and-morty-season-5-wife-beths-mother-mrs-sanchez\/), actually resurface at some point soon?\n\n###### Related Story\n- [![](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/hmg-prod\/images\/rick-and-morty-vs-genocider-a-special-rick-and-morty-anime-short-adult-swim-con-1596724623.jpg?crop=0.744xw:0.697xh;0.256xw,0&resize=300:*)Rick and Morty just revealed if Rick is Morty](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a33544469\/rick-and-morty-fan-theory-anime-genocider\/)\n\nSpeaking to **Digital Spy** and other press just recently, show creator Dan Harmon discussed all this in more detail:\n\n**\"**It's really weird in animation because obviously Morty has to be 14 forever. Summer is 17 forever. Rick is whatever he is forever. So that question becomes like: do your characters grow and change? I'm firmly against that reset-button-hitting where it's like there's no awareness present. I look at it as like smoking meat versus cooking it. You let the flavour itself happen, and let that change things.\"\n\nThe challenges that Dan describes here are not unique to *Rick and Morty*. Most animated sitcoms have to balance accessibility with character development for longterm fans, and this issue only becomes more apparent the longer each show is on the air. After all, *[The Simpsons](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/the-simpsons\/)* has already proved that longevity can be a curse if not handled right, but with plenty of seasons to go, it's refreshing to see that *Rick and Morty* is now starting to reckon with this more in season five.\n\n![star mort rickturn of the jerri rick and morty adult swim season 4 finale](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/hmg-prod\/images\/star-mort-rickturn-of-the-jerri-rick-and-morty-adult-swim-season-4-finale-1591004248.jpg?crop=0.543xw:1.00xh;0.263xw,0&resize=980:*)\n\nAdult Swim\n\n\"Morty is getting sick of Rick’s crap,\" Harmon continued. \"And he should. We wouldn't want to watch him wake up every day and go, 'I wonder what my loving grandpa has planned for me?'\"\n\nDan's right, and it's reassuring to hear him acknowledge this, but that's not to say everything's suddenly perfect now. Following the events of season four, it does feel odd that [Space Beth](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a35161518\/rick-and-morty-season-5-space-beth-sarah-chalke\/) doesn't make an appearance here, and Rick's downbeat ending is also pretty much ignored.\n\nBut for now, we'll give *Rick and Morty* the benefit of the doubt. After all, it's impossible to judge an entire season based on just one episode, and writer Scott Marder has promised that fans will indeed get some \"[epic canon](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a34685852\/rick-and-morty-season-5-canon\/)\" beyond the first episode. Let's just hope that the rest of season five invests in more emotional beats along with the laughs or before long, the possibility of another renewal will be looking less and less likely in any dimension.\n\n***Rick and Morty*** **airs on Adult Swim in the US, and on E4 and All 4 in the UK.**\n\n[![Rick and Morty season 4 DVD](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1626965256-51l0bQyC2qL._SL500_.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B08DBYPWGY?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Cartoon Network Rick and Morty season 4 DVD\n[£21 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B08DBYPWGY?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\nCredit: Adult Swim\n\n[![Rick and Morty Season 1-3 \\[Blu-Ray\\]](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1573053428-511PG0pmhOL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B07LGPFVKT?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Spirit Entertainment Rick and Morty Season 1-3 \\[Blu-Ray\\]\n[£26 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B07LGPFVKT?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\nCredit: Spirit Entertainment\n\n[![Rick Funko Pop! Vinyl](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1573052883-51iPeZ1dhL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B01FIF06VY?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Funko Rick Funko Pop! Vinyl\n[£20 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B01FIF06VY?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\nCredit: Funko\n\n[![Morty Funko Pop! Vinyl](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1573052989-51mqyAnb9AL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B01FIF06S2?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Funko Morty Funko Pop! Vinyl\n[£44 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B01FIF06S2?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\nCredit: Funko\n\n[![Pickle Rick with Laser Figure Funko Pop! Vinyl](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1573052638-51EUQmublML.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B07569HX5Z?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Funko Pickle Rick with Laser Figure Funko Pop! Vinyl\n[£24 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B07569HX5Z?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\nCredit: Funko\n\n[![Mr Meeseeks Funko Pop! Vinyl](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1573053031-51plogACbtL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B01MY7PEIP?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Funko Mr Meeseeks Funko Pop! Vinyl\nNow 10% Off\n\n[£35 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B01MY7PEIP?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\nCredit: Funko\n\n[![Rick and Morty men's hooded sweatshirt](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1626965640-41rviNPRGZL._SL500_.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B082BFGRRK?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Cartoon Network Rick and Morty men's hooded sweatshirt\n[£35 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B082BFGRRK?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\nCredit: Adult Swim\n\n[![Rick and Morty women's sweatshirt](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1626965900-41Mms-h9YAL._SL500_.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B082BYP5TT?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Cartoon Network Rick and Morty women's sweatshirt\n[£30 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B082BYP5TT?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\nCredit: Adult Swim\n\n[![Rainbow Morty Christmas Jumper](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1573051680-51quMIMeFOL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B07G1Z4K14?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Numskull Rainbow Morty Christmas Jumper\n[\\$59 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B07G1Z4K14?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\nCredit: Rick and Morty\n\n[![Rick and Morty Monopoly Board Game](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1573051080-51gCfRn485L.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B0773PLQR3?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Winning Moves Rick and Morty Monopoly Board Game\n[£38 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B0773PLQR3?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\nCredit: Hasbro\n\n[![Rick and Morty Total Rickall Cooperative Card Game](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1573051519-612CIWxvsmL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B01BEZTEXS?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Cryptozoic Entertainment Rick and Morty Total Rickall Cooperative Card Game\n[£16 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B01BEZTEXS?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\nCredit: Cryptozoic\n\n[![Rick and Morty Cluedo Board Game](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1573051277-61dhPtSK0L.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B078JNK659?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Winning Moves Rick and Morty Cluedo Board Game\nNow 11% Off\n\n[£31 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B078JNK659?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\nCredit: Winning Moves\n\n[![Rick and Morty Top Trumps Card Game](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1573051448-41YavPrJSoL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B07C7H2FM1?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Top Trumps Rick and Morty Top Trumps Card Game\n[£6 at Amazon](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B07C7H2FM1?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\nCredit: Top Trumps\n***\n**This month, Digital Spy Magazine counts down the 50 greatest LGBTQ+ TV characters since the Stonewall riots. Read every issue now with [a 1-month free trial, only on Apple News+](https:\/\/apple.news\/IiU7-f0TgQOu_A0icBRbRtQ).**\n\n**Interested in Digital Spy's weekly newsletter?** [**Sign up**](https:\/\/link.digitalspy.co.uk\/join\/signup-digital-spy-allnewsletters) **to get it sent straight to your inbox – and don't forget to join our** [**Watch This Facebook Group**](https:\/\/bit.ly\/watchthisds) **for daily TV recommendations and discussions with other readers.**\n\n![Headshot of David Opie](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/rover\/profile_photos\/3a20261e-448b-4e78-ac5f-d6eb161c77e0_1571838059.file?fill=1:1&resize=120:*)\n\n[David Opie](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/author\/628115\/david-opie\/)\n\nAfter teaching in England and South Korea, David turned to writing in Germany, where he covered everything from superhero movies to the Berlin Film Festival.\n\nIn 2019, David moved to London to join [**Digital Spy**](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/)**,** where he could indulge his love of comics, horror and [LGBTQ+](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/lgbtq\/) storytelling as Deputy TV Editor, and later, as Acting TV Editor.\n\nDavid has spoken on numerous LGBTQ+ panels to discuss queer representation and in 2020, he created the Rainbow Crew interview series, which celebrates LGBTQ+ talent on both sides of the camera via video content and longform reads.\n\nBeyond that, David has interviewed all your faves, including Henry Cavill, Pedro Pascal, Olivia Colman, Patrick Stewart, Ncuti Gatwa, Jamie Dornan, Regina King, and more — not to mention countless [Drag Race](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/rupauls-drag-race\/) legends.\n\nAs a freelance entertainment journalist, David has bylines across a range of publications including *Empire Online,* [*Radio Times*](https:\/\/www.radiotimes.com\/author\/davidopie\/)*, INTO, Highsnobiety,* [*Den of Geek*](https:\/\/www.denofgeek.com\/author\/david-opie\/)*, The Digital Fix* and *Sight & Sound*.\n\n[LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/david-opie7\/)\n\nAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below\n\n## [Rick and Morty](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/rick-and-morty\/)\n[![rick morty, season 6](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/hmg-prod\/images\/rick-and-morty-season-six-image-1662104016.jpg?crop=0.412xw:0.732xh;0.450xw,0.0228xh&resize=360:*)Rick and Morty boss gets new Netflix show](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a60972293\/rick-and-morty-dan-harmon-undervale-netflix\/)\n\n[![rick and morty season 7 trailer](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/hmg-prod\/images\/rick-morty-season-7-trailer-65128a3b61630.jpg?crop=0.521xw:0.923xh;0.229xw,0.0769xh&resize=360:*)Rick and Morty s8 confirms release date delay](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a46500386\/rick-and-morty-season-8-release-delay\/)\n\n[![Rick and Morty Mr Poopybutthole](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/hmg-prod\/images\/rick-and-morty-poopybuthole-1574420029.jpg?crop=0.630xw:0.895xh;0.0192xw,0.0911xh&resize=360:*)Rick and Morty boss on s7 post-credits scenes](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a46165684\/rick-and-morty-boss-season-7-post-credits-scene\/)\n\n[![rick and morty, season 7](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/hmg-prod\/images\/rick-and-morty-64dc701fbea11.jpg?crop=0.424xw:0.792xh;0.0707xw,0&resize=360:*)Rick and Morty teases next three seasons plans](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a46159121\/rick-and-morty-plans-season-10\/)\n\nAdvertisement - Continue Reading Below\n\n[![rick and morty season 7 trailer](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vidthumb\/images\/rick-and-morty-season-7-trailer-65128a07dfa70.jpg?crop=0.388xw:0.690xh;0.476xw,0.0899xh&resize=360:*)Rick and Morty season 7 brings back character](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a45619543\/rick-and-morty-season-7-memory-rick-return-post-credits\/)\n\n[![rick and morty season 7 trailer](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/hmg-prod\/images\/rick-and-morty-season-7-65128a3bb9bb7.jpg?crop=0.529xw:0.937xh;0.179xw,0&resize=360:*)Rick and Morty reveals new voice actors](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a45543157\/rick-and-morty-new-voice-actors-recast\/)\n\n[![rick and morty, season 6](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/hmg-prod\/images\/rick-and-morty-season-six-1668593348.jpg?crop=0.566xw:1.00xh;0.236xw,0&resize=360:*)Rick and Morty movie receives promising update](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/movies\/a45526955\/rick-and-morty-movie-exciting-update\/)\n\n[![rick and morty season 7 trailer](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/hmg-prod\/images\/rick-and-morty-season-7-65128a3bb9bb7.jpg?crop=0.529xw:0.937xh;0.189xw,0&resize=360:*)Rick and Morty s7 trailer reveals new voice actors](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a45315220\/rick-and-morty-season-7-trailer-new-actors\/)\n\n[![rick and morty, season 6, finale](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/hmg-prod\/images\/rick-and-morty-season-6-1670833956.jpg?crop=0.377xw:0.670xh;0.367xw,0.0426xh&resize=360:*)Rick and Morty season 7 all you need to know](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a42238497\/rick-and-morty-season-7-release-date\/)\n\n[![rick and morty, season 7](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/hmg-prod\/images\/rick-and-morty-64dc704006152.jpg?crop=0.447xw:0.829xh;0.236xw,0.171xh&resize=360:*)Rick and Morty season 7 confirms release date](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a44825492\/rick-and-morty-season-7-release-date-trailer\/)\n\n[![strange planet, apple tv](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/hmg-prod\/images\/strange-planet-1-64d20e0d41932.jpg?crop=0.290xw:0.514xh;0.334xw,0.127xh&resize=360:*)Strange Planet – how to watch the animated series](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a44759810\/how-to-watch-strange-planet-apple-tv-plus\/)\n\n[![justin roiland](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/hmg-prod\/images\/justin-roiland-1673701116.jpg?crop=0.509xw:0.339xh;0.251xw,0.0946xh&resize=360:*)Justin Roiland dropped from Solar Opposites](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a42662176\/justin-roiland-dropped-solar-opposites\/)\n\nAdvertisement - 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DIGITAL SPY, PART OF THE HEARST UK ENTERTAINMENT NETWORK](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/_assets\/design-tokens\/en-gb\/static\/images\/logos\/network-logo.eae65ae.svg?primary=%2523ffffff)\n\nDIGITAL SPY, PART OF THE HEARST UK ENTERTAINMENT NETWORK\n\nWe earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.\n\n©2026 Hearst UK is the trading name of the National Magazine Company Ltd, 30 Panton Street, Leicester Square, London, SW1Y 4AJ. Registered in England. All Rights Reserved.\n\n[RSS](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/rss\/all.xml\/)[About & Contact Details](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/about\/a23776\/about-digital-spy-and-the-digital-spy-team\/)[Terms & Conditions](http:\/\/www.hearst.co.uk\/terms-and-conditions\/)[Privacy Policy](http:\/\/www.hearst.co.uk\/privacy-policy\/)[Cookie Policy](http:\/\/www.hearst.co.uk\/cookie-policy\/)[Complaints](http:\/\/www.hearst.co.uk\/hearst-magazines-uk-complaints-procedure\/)[Sitemap](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/sitemap\/)[Advertising](https:\/\/www.hearst.co.uk\/brands\/digital-spy)\n\n[Cookies Choices](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a36698221\/rick-and-morty-season-5-episode-1-review\/ \"Cookies Choices\")\n\n![Ipso Regulated](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/_assets\/design-tokens\/fre\/static\/images\/logos\/ipso-regulated.4f346f9.svg?primary=%2523ffffff)","attrs_readable_markdown":"***Rick and Morty* season 5 episode 1 spoilers follow.**\n\n*[Rick and Morty](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/rick-and-morty\/)* kicks [season five](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a30104312\/rick-and-morty-season-5-release-date-episodes-cast-trailer\/) off in schwifty fashion with a bunch of alternate-reality crystals that hint at the endless possibilities of the multiverse. \"Were we Blades in that one?\" Rick asks during this cold open. Yes, ever so briefly, we get to see Rick and Morty decked out in their slickest Wesley Snipes attire. And in the episode that follows, *Rick and Morty* finally starts to open itself up to a more traditional, but no less important possibility.\n\nIn this first scene, Morty is in charge for once, and while we don't know what happened beforehand, Rick is clearly in bad shape. That means it's up to his grandson to rescue them both, but as their ship crashes through the atmosphere, it appears that all hope is lost. That is, until Jessica calls Morty up and asks if they can hang out.\n\nDriven by his horny teen desires, Morty makes one last go of it and lands their ship in the ocean, bringing them both to safety. Except, they're not really safe at all, because the sea is a no-go zone for the Smith family. By entering this space, Rick has violated his agreement with Nimbus, an even hornier sea king who is somehow Rick's \"greatest nemesis\".\n\n![rick and morty season 5](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/hmg-prod\/images\/rick-and-morty-season-5-1623424070.jpg?crop=0.563xw:1.00xh;0.266xw,0&resize=980:*)\n\nChannel 4\n\nThis opening sets up a typically deranged episode full of time distortion, robot birds, and uncomfortable orgies. Essentially, it's the *Rick and Morty* that fans know and love. But more importantly than that, this episode doesn't reset the status quo, which is a welcome change for this show.\n\nThings are looking up for Morty in season five. Jessica is actually up for hanging out and he survived the crash intact, so that's also a big bonus. There's just one problem – his grandfather. With Nimbus heading to the Smith house for dinner, Rick wants his grandson to go fetch him some wine from another dimension, but Morty is fed up of being treated like an errand boy.\n\nThe cracks were already beginning to show a bit in season four, but just a few minutes into season five, Morty finally vents his frustrations, complaining to Rick that he hasn't finished a whole week of school in years thanks to his grandfather. After that, Morty does end up going to get the wine, kicking off an epic revenge story which spans multiple dimensions and eons of time itself. But what's crucial here is that Morty no longer takes Rick's abuse at face value.\n\nAfter years of mistreatment, Morty is ready to stand up for himself, and it looks like all of his inter-dimensional travels have hardened him too. \"Sometimes you've gotta be an asshole,\" Morty says after murdering generations of people who believe him to be an evil god. \"My grandfather taught me that.\"\n\nMorty's not the only one who's changing either. Summer is way more adventurous than she used to be and their parents are also evolving, particularly when it comes to the intricacies of their marriage. And by intricacies, we mean them deciding to bang Nimbus together in a government-approved three-way.\n\nThat's a marked change from season four, which mostly dealt with standalone stories that did little to advance the overarching story. To be fair though, it's easy to see why that happened.\n\n![rick and morty season 5](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/hmg-prod\/images\/rick-and-morty-season-5-2-1623424070.jpg?crop=0.5625xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)\n\nChannel 4\n\nIf every episode dramatically moved things forward, the writers might reach their endgame far too quickly, and that would be tough given the [70-episode order](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a856811\/rick-and-morty-renewed-70-episodes\/) they need to fulfil. The success of one-off adventures like the Emmy-winning ['Vat of Acid Episode'](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a32573853\/rick-and-morty-south-park-easter-egg-twist\/) further proved that standalone stories are vital to the show's appeal, but that hasn't stopped fans from wanting more.\n\nFrom [Evil Morty](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a32613249\/rick-and-morty-season-4-evil-morty-origin\/) to *that* [Talking Cat](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a34756901\/rick-and-morty-talking-cat-meaning\/), the demand to see beloved characters and story arcs return has increased more and more in recent years. Fan pressure shouldn't always be the guiding force behind creative decisions, not by any means, but there is something to be said for character development too. Five seasons in, the Smiths need to evolve and grow more to keep fans invested. And would it be so bad to finally give us some answers to at least some of the [show's biggest mysteries](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a33544469\/rick-and-morty-fan-theory-anime-genocider\/)?\n\nIf this first episode is anything to go by, then *Rick and Morty* definitely seems more concerned with tackling these issues in season five. Rick even addresses this directly when he tells Nimbus, \"Don't establish canonical backstory with me.\" Is that just a knowing acknowledgement of the show's new leanings or will the likes of [Diane, Rick's ex-wife](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a32930021\/rick-and-morty-season-5-wife-beths-mother-mrs-sanchez\/), actually resurface at some point soon?\n\nSpeaking to **Digital Spy** and other press just recently, show creator Dan Harmon discussed all this in more detail:\n\n**\"**It's really weird in animation because obviously Morty has to be 14 forever. Summer is 17 forever. Rick is whatever he is forever. So that question becomes like: do your characters grow and change? I'm firmly against that reset-button-hitting where it's like there's no awareness present. I look at it as like smoking meat versus cooking it. You let the flavour itself happen, and let that change things.\"\n\nThe challenges that Dan describes here are not unique to *Rick and Morty*. Most animated sitcoms have to balance accessibility with character development for longterm fans, and this issue only becomes more apparent the longer each show is on the air. After all, *[The Simpsons](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/the-simpsons\/)* has already proved that longevity can be a curse if not handled right, but with plenty of seasons to go, it's refreshing to see that *Rick and Morty* is now starting to reckon with this more in season five.\n\n![star mort rickturn of the jerri rick and morty adult swim season 4 finale](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/hmg-prod\/images\/star-mort-rickturn-of-the-jerri-rick-and-morty-adult-swim-season-4-finale-1591004248.jpg?crop=0.543xw:1.00xh;0.263xw,0&resize=980:*)\n\nAdult Swim\n\n\"Morty is getting sick of Rick’s crap,\" Harmon continued. \"And he should. We wouldn't want to watch him wake up every day and go, 'I wonder what my loving grandpa has planned for me?'\"\n\nDan's right, and it's reassuring to hear him acknowledge this, but that's not to say everything's suddenly perfect now. Following the events of season four, it does feel odd that [Space Beth](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a35161518\/rick-and-morty-season-5-space-beth-sarah-chalke\/) doesn't make an appearance here, and Rick's downbeat ending is also pretty much ignored.\n\nBut for now, we'll give *Rick and Morty* the benefit of the doubt. After all, it's impossible to judge an entire season based on just one episode, and writer Scott Marder has promised that fans will indeed get some \"[epic canon](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/tv\/ustv\/a34685852\/rick-and-morty-season-5-canon\/)\" beyond the first episode. Let's just hope that the rest of season five invests in more emotional beats along with the laughs or before long, the possibility of another renewal will be looking less and less likely in any dimension.\n\n***Rick and Morty*** **airs on Adult Swim in the US, and on E4 and All 4 in the UK.**\n\n[![Rick and Morty season 4 DVD](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1626965256-51l0bQyC2qL._SL500_.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B08DBYPWGY?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Cartoon Network Rick and Morty season 4 DVD\nCredit: Adult Swim\n\n[![Rick and Morty Season 1-3 \\[Blu-Ray\\]](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1573053428-511PG0pmhOL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B07LGPFVKT?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Spirit Entertainment Rick and Morty Season 1-3 \\[Blu-Ray\\]\nCredit: Spirit Entertainment\n\n[![Rick Funko Pop! Vinyl](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1573052883-51iPeZ1dhL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B01FIF06VY?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Funko Rick Funko Pop! Vinyl\nCredit: Funko\n\n[![Morty Funko Pop! Vinyl](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1573052989-51mqyAnb9AL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B01FIF06S2?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Funko Morty Funko Pop! Vinyl\nCredit: Funko\n\n[![Pickle Rick with Laser Figure Funko Pop! Vinyl](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1573052638-51EUQmublML.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B07569HX5Z?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Funko Pickle Rick with Laser Figure Funko Pop! Vinyl\nCredit: Funko\n\n[![Mr Meeseeks Funko Pop! Vinyl](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1573053031-51plogACbtL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B01MY7PEIP?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Funko Mr Meeseeks Funko Pop! Vinyl\nNow 10% Off\n\nCredit: Funko\n\n[![Rick and Morty men's hooded sweatshirt](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1626965640-41rviNPRGZL._SL500_.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B082BFGRRK?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Cartoon Network Rick and Morty men's hooded sweatshirt\nCredit: Adult Swim\n\n[![Rick and Morty women's sweatshirt](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1626965900-41Mms-h9YAL._SL500_.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B082BYP5TT?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Cartoon Network Rick and Morty women's sweatshirt\nCredit: Adult Swim\n\n[![Rainbow Morty Christmas Jumper](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1573051680-51quMIMeFOL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B07G1Z4K14?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Numskull Rainbow Morty Christmas Jumper\nCredit: Rick and Morty\n\n[![Rick and Morty Monopoly Board Game](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1573051080-51gCfRn485L.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B0773PLQR3?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Winning Moves Rick and Morty Monopoly Board Game\nCredit: Hasbro\n\n[![Rick and Morty Total Rickall Cooperative Card Game](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1573051519-612CIWxvsmL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B01BEZTEXS?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Cryptozoic Entertainment Rick and Morty Total Rickall Cooperative Card Game\nCredit: Cryptozoic\n\n[![Rick and Morty Cluedo Board Game](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1573051277-61dhPtSK0L.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B078JNK659?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Winning Moves Rick and Morty Cluedo Board Game\nNow 11% Off\n\nCredit: Winning Moves\n\n[![Rick and Morty Top Trumps Card Game](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com\/1573051448-41YavPrJSoL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)](https:\/\/www.amazon.co.uk\/dp\/B07C7H2FM1?tag=digitalspy.com-21)\n\n###### Top Trumps Rick and Morty Top Trumps Card Game\nCredit: Top Trumps\n***\n**This month, Digital Spy Magazine counts down the 50 greatest LGBTQ+ TV characters since the Stonewall riots. Read every issue now with [a 1-month free trial, only on Apple News+](https:\/\/apple.news\/IiU7-f0TgQOu_A0icBRbRtQ).**\n\n**Interested in Digital Spy's weekly newsletter?** [**Sign up**](https:\/\/link.digitalspy.co.uk\/join\/signup-digital-spy-allnewsletters) **to get it sent straight to your inbox – and don't forget to join our** [**Watch This Facebook Group**](https:\/\/bit.ly\/watchthisds) **for daily TV recommendations and discussions with other readers.**\n\n![Headshot of David Opie](https:\/\/hips.hearstapps.com\/rover\/profile_photos\/3a20261e-448b-4e78-ac5f-d6eb161c77e0_1571838059.file?fill=1:1&resize=120:*)\n\nAfter teaching in England and South Korea, David turned to writing in Germany, where he covered everything from superhero movies to the Berlin Film Festival.\n\nIn 2019, David moved to London to join [**Digital Spy**](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/)**,** where he could indulge his love of comics, horror and [LGBTQ+](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/lgbtq\/) storytelling as Deputy TV Editor, and later, as Acting TV Editor.\n\nDavid has spoken on numerous LGBTQ+ panels to discuss queer representation and in 2020, he created the Rainbow Crew interview series, which celebrates LGBTQ+ talent on both sides of the camera via video content and longform reads.\n\nBeyond that, David has interviewed all your faves, including Henry Cavill, Pedro Pascal, Olivia Colman, Patrick Stewart, Ncuti Gatwa, Jamie Dornan, Regina King, and more — not to mention countless [Drag Race](https:\/\/www.digitalspy.com\/rupauls-drag-race\/) legends.\n\nAs a freelance entertainment journalist, David has bylines across a range of publications including *Empire Online,* [*Radio Times*](https:\/\/www.radiotimes.com\/author\/davidopie\/)*, INTO, Highsnobiety,* [*Den of Geek*](https:\/\/www.denofgeek.com\/author\/david-opie\/)*, The Digital Fix* and *Sight & Sound*.\n\n[LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/david-opie7\/)","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Title	Rick and Morty season 5 ep 1 starts to fix its biggest problem
Meta Description	Rick and Morty season 5 episode 1 review – The premiere doesn't reset the status quo, which means more serialised character development might be on the horizon.
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Boilerpipe Text	Rick and Morty season 5 episode 1 spoilers follow. Rick and Morty kicks season five off in schwifty fashion with a bunch of alternate-reality crystals that hint at the endless possibilities of the multiverse. "Were we Blades in that one?" Rick asks during this cold open. Yes, ever so briefly, we get to see Rick and Morty decked out in their slickest Wesley Snipes attire. And in the episode that follows, Rick and Morty finally starts to open itself up to a more traditional, but no less important possibility. In this first scene, Morty is in charge for once, and while we don't know what happened beforehand, Rick is clearly in bad shape. That means it's up to his grandson to rescue them both, but as their ship crashes through the atmosphere, it appears that all hope is lost. That is, until Jessica calls Morty up and asks if they can hang out. Driven by his horny teen desires, Morty makes one last go of it and lands their ship in the ocean, bringing them both to safety. Except, they're not really safe at all, because the sea is a no-go zone for the Smith family. By entering this space, Rick has violated his agreement with Nimbus, an even hornier sea king who is somehow Rick's "greatest nemesis". Channel 4 This opening sets up a typically deranged episode full of time distortion, robot birds, and uncomfortable orgies. Essentially, it's the Rick and Morty that fans know and love. But more importantly than that, this episode doesn't reset the status quo, which is a welcome change for this show. Things are looking up for Morty in season five. Jessica is actually up for hanging out and he survived the crash intact, so that's also a big bonus. There's just one problem – his grandfather. With Nimbus heading to the Smith house for dinner, Rick wants his grandson to go fetch him some wine from another dimension, but Morty is fed up of being treated like an errand boy. The cracks were already beginning to show a bit in season four, but just a few minutes into season five, Morty finally vents his frustrations, complaining to Rick that he hasn't finished a whole week of school in years thanks to his grandfather. After that, Morty does end up going to get the wine, kicking off an epic revenge story which spans multiple dimensions and eons of time itself. But what's crucial here is that Morty no longer takes Rick's abuse at face value. After years of mistreatment, Morty is ready to stand up for himself, and it looks like all of his inter-dimensional travels have hardened him too. "Sometimes you've gotta be an asshole," Morty says after murdering generations of people who believe him to be an evil god. "My grandfather taught me that." Morty's not the only one who's changing either. Summer is way more adventurous than she used to be and their parents are also evolving, particularly when it comes to the intricacies of their marriage. And by intricacies, we mean them deciding to bang Nimbus together in a government-approved three-way. That's a marked change from season four, which mostly dealt with standalone stories that did little to advance the overarching story. To be fair though, it's easy to see why that happened. Channel 4 If every episode dramatically moved things forward, the writers might reach their endgame far too quickly, and that would be tough given the 70-episode order they need to fulfil. The success of one-off adventures like the Emmy-winning 'Vat of Acid Episode' further proved that standalone stories are vital to the show's appeal, but that hasn't stopped fans from wanting more. From Evil Morty to that Talking Cat , the demand to see beloved characters and story arcs return has increased more and more in recent years. Fan pressure shouldn't always be the guiding force behind creative decisions, not by any means, but there is something to be said for character development too. Five seasons in, the Smiths need to evolve and grow more to keep fans invested. And would it be so bad to finally give us some answers to at least some of the show's biggest mysteries ? If this first episode is anything to go by, then Rick and Morty definitely seems more concerned with tackling these issues in season five. Rick even addresses this directly when he tells Nimbus, "Don't establish canonical backstory with me." Is that just a knowing acknowledgement of the show's new leanings or will the likes of Diane, Rick's ex-wife , actually resurface at some point soon? Speaking to Digital Spy and other press just recently, show creator Dan Harmon discussed all this in more detail: " It's really weird in animation because obviously Morty has to be 14 forever. Summer is 17 forever. Rick is whatever he is forever. So that question becomes like: do your characters grow and change? I'm firmly against that reset-button-hitting where it's like there's no awareness present. I look at it as like smoking meat versus cooking it. You let the flavour itself happen, and let that change things." The challenges that Dan describes here are not unique to Rick and Morty . Most animated sitcoms have to balance accessibility with character development for longterm fans, and this issue only becomes more apparent the longer each show is on the air. After all, The Simpsons has already proved that longevity can be a curse if not handled right, but with plenty of seasons to go, it's refreshing to see that Rick and Morty is now starting to reckon with this more in season five. Adult Swim "Morty is getting sick of Rick’s crap," Harmon continued. "And he should. We wouldn't want to watch him wake up every day and go, 'I wonder what my loving grandpa has planned for me?'" Dan's right, and it's reassuring to hear him acknowledge this, but that's not to say everything's suddenly perfect now. Following the events of season four, it does feel odd that Space Beth doesn't make an appearance here, and Rick's downbeat ending is also pretty much ignored. But for now, we'll give Rick and Morty the benefit of the doubt. After all, it's impossible to judge an entire season based on just one episode, and writer Scott Marder has promised that fans will indeed get some " epic canon " beyond the first episode. Let's just hope that the rest of season five invests in more emotional beats along with the laughs or before long, the possibility of another renewal will be looking less and less likely in any dimension. Rick and Morty airs on Adult Swim in the US, and on E4 and All 4 in the UK. Cartoon Network Rick and Morty season 4 DVD Credit: Adult Swim Spirit Entertainment Rick and Morty Season 1-3 [Blu-Ray] Credit: Spirit Entertainment Funko Rick Funko Pop! Vinyl Credit: Funko Funko Morty Funko Pop! Vinyl Credit: Funko Funko Pickle Rick with Laser Figure Funko Pop! Vinyl Credit: Funko Funko Mr Meeseeks Funko Pop! Vinyl Now 10% Off Credit: Funko Cartoon Network Rick and Morty men's hooded sweatshirt Credit: Adult Swim Cartoon Network Rick and Morty women's sweatshirt Credit: Adult Swim Numskull Rainbow Morty Christmas Jumper Credit: Rick and Morty Winning Moves Rick and Morty Monopoly Board Game Credit: Hasbro Cryptozoic Entertainment Rick and Morty Total Rickall Cooperative Card Game Credit: Cryptozoic Winning Moves Rick and Morty Cluedo Board Game Now 11% Off Credit: Winning Moves Top Trumps Rick and Morty Top Trumps Card Game Credit: Top Trumps This month, Digital Spy Magazine counts down the 50 greatest LGBTQ+ TV characters since the Stonewall riots. Read every issue now with a 1-month free trial, only on Apple News+ . Interested in Digital Spy's weekly newsletter? Sign up to get it sent straight to your inbox – and don't forget to join our Watch This Facebook Group for daily TV recommendations and discussions with other readers. After teaching in England and South Korea, David turned to writing in Germany, where he covered everything from superhero movies to the Berlin Film Festival. In 2019, David moved to London to join Digital Spy , where he could indulge his love of comics, horror and LGBTQ+ storytelling as Deputy TV Editor, and later, as Acting TV Editor. David has spoken on numerous LGBTQ+ panels to discuss queer representation and in 2020, he created the Rainbow Crew interview series, which celebrates LGBTQ+ talent on both sides of the camera via video content and longform reads. Beyond that, David has interviewed all your faves, including Henry Cavill, Pedro Pascal, Olivia Colman, Patrick Stewart, Ncuti Gatwa, Jamie Dornan, Regina King, and more — not to mention countless Drag Race legends. As a freelance entertainment journalist, David has bylines across a range of publications including Empire Online, Radio Times , INTO, Highsnobiety, Den of Geek , The Digital Fix and Sight & Sound . LinkedIn
Markdown	[![Search](https://www.digitalspy.com/_assets/design-tokens/fre/static/icons/search.f1c199c.svg?primary=%2523ffffff)Search](https://www.digitalspy.com/search/) ![Close](https://www.digitalspy.com/_assets/design-tokens/fre/static/icons/close.38e3324.svg?primary=%2523ffffff) * - [Latest News](https://www.digitalspy.com/contenttype/news/) - [TV](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/) - [Movies](https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/) - [Soaps](https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/) - [Streaming Guide](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/a70049607/streaming-guide/) - [All Videos](https://www.digitalspy.com/videos/) - [Newsletter](https://link.digitalspy.co.uk/join/signup-digital-spy) - [Forums](https://forums.digitalspy.com/) - [Follow](https://www.digitalspy.com/#/) - [Cookies Policy](http://www.hearst.co.uk/cookies-policy) [Privacy Notice](http://www.hearst.co.uk/privacy-notice)[Terms Of Use](http://www.hearst.co.uk/terms-and-conditions/) [Skip to Content](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a36698221/rick-and-morty-season-5-episode-1-review/#main-content) [![Logo](https://www.digitalspy.com/_assets/design-tokens/digitalspy/static/images/logos/logo.9d2bac0.svg?primary=%2523ffffff)](https://www.digitalspy.com/) - [TV](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/) - [Movies](https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/) - [Soaps](https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/) - [Tech](https://www.digitalspy.com/tech/) - [News](https://www.digitalspy.com/news/) - [Streaming Guide](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/a70049607/streaming-guide/) [Forums](https://forums.digitalspy.com/) [Newsletter](https://link.digitalspy.co.uk/join/signup-digital-spy-allnewsletters) [Wuthering Heights review](https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a70284509/wuthering-heights-review/) [Bridgerton merch](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/g69989042/bridgerton-gifts-merchandise/) [Death in Paradise schedule](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/a70343398/why-death-in-paradise-isnt-on-tv-tonight-how-to-watch/) [How to watch Eternity](https://www.digitalspy.com/movies/a70344785/watch-eternity-movie-streaming-apple-tv/) [Corrie spoilers](https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/coronation-street/a70312016/coronation-street-spoilers-debbie-ronnie-jodie/) We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article. ![Play Icon](https://www.digitalspy.com/_assets/design-tokens/fre/static/icons/play.db7c035.svg?primary=%2523ffffff) ![rick and morty season 5](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vidthumb/images/rick-and-morty-season-5-1617148043.jpg?crop=0.896xw:1.00xh;0.00801xw,0) 1. [TV](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/) 2. [US TV](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/) 3. [Rick and Morty season 5 is starting to fix the show's biggest problem](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a36698221/rick-and-morty-season-5-episode-1-review/) # Rick and Morty season 5 is starting to fix the show's biggest problem But is it too little, too late? By [David Opie](https://www.digitalspy.com/author/628115/david-opie/ "David Opie") Published: 14 June 2021 Rick and Morty season 5 episode 1 spoilers follow.** [Rick and Morty](https://www.digitalspy.com/rick-and-morty/) kicks [season five](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a30104312/rick-and-morty-season-5-release-date-episodes-cast-trailer/) off in schwifty fashion with a bunch of alternate-reality crystals that hint at the endless possibilities of the multiverse. "Were we Blades in that one?" Rick asks during this cold open. Yes, ever so briefly, we get to see Rick and Morty decked out in their slickest Wesley Snipes attire. And in the episode that follows, Rick and Morty finally starts to open itself up to a more traditional, but no less important possibility. In this first scene, Morty is in charge for once, and while we don't know what happened beforehand, Rick is clearly in bad shape. That means it's up to his grandson to rescue them both, but as their ship crashes through the atmosphere, it appears that all hope is lost. That is, until Jessica calls Morty up and asks if they can hang out. ## What to Read Next Driven by his horny teen desires, Morty makes one last go of it and lands their ship in the ocean, bringing them both to safety. Except, they're not really safe at all, because the sea is a no-go zone for the Smith family. By entering this space, Rick has violated his agreement with Nimbus, an even hornier sea king who is somehow Rick's "greatest nemesis". ![rick and morty season 5](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/rick-and-morty-season-5-1623424070.jpg?crop=0.563xw:1.00xh;0.266xw,0&resize=980:) Channel 4 This opening sets up a typically deranged episode full of time distortion, robot birds, and uncomfortable orgies. Essentially, it's the Rick and Morty* that fans know and love. But more importantly than that, this episode doesn't reset the status quo, which is a welcome change for this show. Things are looking up for Morty in season five. Jessica is actually up for hanging out and he survived the crash intact, so that's also a big bonus. There's just one problem – his grandfather. With Nimbus heading to the Smith house for dinner, Rick wants his grandson to go fetch him some wine from another dimension, but Morty is fed up of being treated like an errand boy. The cracks were already beginning to show a bit in season four, but just a few minutes into season five, Morty finally vents his frustrations, complaining to Rick that he hasn't finished a whole week of school in years thanks to his grandfather. After that, Morty does end up going to get the wine, kicking off an epic revenge story which spans multiple dimensions and eons of time itself. But what's crucial here is that Morty no longer takes Rick's abuse at face value. ###### Related Story - [![](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vidthumb/images/rick-morty-1571997817.jpg?crop=1.00xw:0.890xh;0,0&resize=300:)Big Rick and Morty puzzle to be solved in season 5](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a32930021/rick-and-morty-season-5-wife-beths-mother-mrs-sanchez/) After years of mistreatment, Morty is ready to stand up for himself, and it looks like all of his inter-dimensional travels have hardened him too. "Sometimes you've gotta be an asshole," Morty says after murdering generations of people who believe him to be an evil god. "My grandfather taught me that." Morty's not the only one who's changing either. Summer is way more adventurous than she used to be and their parents are also evolving, particularly when it comes to the intricacies of their marriage. And by intricacies, we mean them deciding to bang Nimbus together in a government-approved three-way. That's a marked change from season four, which mostly dealt with standalone stories that did little to advance the overarching story. To be fair though, it's easy to see why that happened. ![rick and morty season 5](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/rick-and-morty-season-5-2-1623424070.jpg?crop=0.5625xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:) Channel 4 If every episode dramatically moved things forward, the writers might reach their endgame far too quickly, and that would be tough given the [70-episode order](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a856811/rick-and-morty-renewed-70-episodes/) they need to fulfil. The success of one-off adventures like the Emmy-winning ['Vat of Acid Episode'](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a32573853/rick-and-morty-south-park-easter-egg-twist/) further proved that standalone stories are vital to the show's appeal, but that hasn't stopped fans from wanting more. From [Evil Morty](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a32613249/rick-and-morty-season-4-evil-morty-origin/) to that [Talking Cat](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a34756901/rick-and-morty-talking-cat-meaning/), the demand to see beloved characters and story arcs return has increased more and more in recent years. Fan pressure shouldn't always be the guiding force behind creative decisions, not by any means, but there is something to be said for character development too. Five seasons in, the Smiths need to evolve and grow more to keep fans invested. And would it be so bad to finally give us some answers to at least some of the [show's biggest mysteries](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a33544469/rick-and-morty-fan-theory-anime-genocider/)? If this first episode is anything to go by, then Rick and Morty definitely seems more concerned with tackling these issues in season five. Rick even addresses this directly when he tells Nimbus, "Don't establish canonical backstory with me." Is that just a knowing acknowledgement of the show's new leanings or will the likes of [Diane, Rick's ex-wife](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a32930021/rick-and-morty-season-5-wife-beths-mother-mrs-sanchez/), actually resurface at some point soon? ###### Related Story - [![](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/rick-and-morty-vs-genocider-a-special-rick-and-morty-anime-short-adult-swim-con-1596724623.jpg?crop=0.744xw:0.697xh;0.256xw,0&resize=300:)Rick and Morty just revealed if Rick is Morty](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a33544469/rick-and-morty-fan-theory-anime-genocider/) Speaking to Digital Spy* and other press just recently, show creator Dan Harmon discussed all this in more detail: "It's really weird in animation because obviously Morty has to be 14 forever. Summer is 17 forever. Rick is whatever he is forever. So that question becomes like: do your characters grow and change? I'm firmly against that reset-button-hitting where it's like there's no awareness present. I look at it as like smoking meat versus cooking it. You let the flavour itself happen, and let that change things." The challenges that Dan describes here are not unique to Rick and Morty. Most animated sitcoms have to balance accessibility with character development for longterm fans, and this issue only becomes more apparent the longer each show is on the air. After all, [The Simpsons](https://www.digitalspy.com/the-simpsons/) has already proved that longevity can be a curse if not handled right, but with plenty of seasons to go, it's refreshing to see that Rick and Morty is now starting to reckon with this more in season five. ![star mort rickturn of the jerri rick and morty adult swim season 4 finale](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/star-mort-rickturn-of-the-jerri-rick-and-morty-adult-swim-season-4-finale-1591004248.jpg?crop=0.543xw:1.00xh;0.263xw,0&resize=980:) Adult Swim "Morty is getting sick of Rick’s crap," Harmon continued. "And he should. We wouldn't want to watch him wake up every day and go, 'I wonder what my loving grandpa has planned for me?'" Dan's right, and it's reassuring to hear him acknowledge this, but that's not to say everything's suddenly perfect now. Following the events of season four, it does feel odd that [Space Beth](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a35161518/rick-and-morty-season-5-space-beth-sarah-chalke/) doesn't make an appearance here, and Rick's downbeat ending is also pretty much ignored. But for now, we'll give Rick and Morty* the benefit of the doubt. After all, it's impossible to judge an entire season based on just one episode, and writer Scott Marder has promised that fans will indeed get some "[epic canon](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a34685852/rick-and-morty-season-5-canon/)" beyond the first episode. Let's just hope that the rest of season five invests in more emotional beats along with the laughs or before long, the possibility of another renewal will be looking less and less likely in any dimension. *Rick and Morty* airs on Adult Swim in the US, and on E4 and All 4 in the UK. [![Rick and Morty season 4 DVD](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1626965256-51l0bQyC2qL._SL500_.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08DBYPWGY?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Cartoon Network Rick and Morty season 4 DVD [£21 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08DBYPWGY?tag=digitalspy.com-21) Credit: Adult Swim [![Rick and Morty Season 1-3 \[Blu-Ray\]](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1573053428-511PG0pmhOL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07LGPFVKT?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Spirit Entertainment Rick and Morty Season 1-3 \[Blu-Ray\] [£26 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07LGPFVKT?tag=digitalspy.com-21) Credit: Spirit Entertainment [![Rick Funko Pop! Vinyl](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1573052883-51iPeZ1dhL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01FIF06VY?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Funko Rick Funko Pop! Vinyl [£20 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01FIF06VY?tag=digitalspy.com-21) Credit: Funko [![Morty Funko Pop! Vinyl](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1573052989-51mqyAnb9AL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01FIF06S2?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Funko Morty Funko Pop! Vinyl [£44 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01FIF06S2?tag=digitalspy.com-21) Credit: Funko [![Pickle Rick with Laser Figure Funko Pop! Vinyl](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1573052638-51EUQmublML.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07569HX5Z?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Funko Pickle Rick with Laser Figure Funko Pop! Vinyl [£24 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07569HX5Z?tag=digitalspy.com-21) Credit: Funko [![Mr Meeseeks Funko Pop! Vinyl](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1573053031-51plogACbtL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01MY7PEIP?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Funko Mr Meeseeks Funko Pop! Vinyl Now 10% Off [£35 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01MY7PEIP?tag=digitalspy.com-21) Credit: Funko [![Rick and Morty men's hooded sweatshirt](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1626965640-41rviNPRGZL._SL500_.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B082BFGRRK?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Cartoon Network Rick and Morty men's hooded sweatshirt [£35 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B082BFGRRK?tag=digitalspy.com-21) Credit: Adult Swim [![Rick and Morty women's sweatshirt](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1626965900-41Mms-h9YAL._SL500_.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B082BYP5TT?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Cartoon Network Rick and Morty women's sweatshirt [£30 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B082BYP5TT?tag=digitalspy.com-21) Credit: Adult Swim [![Rainbow Morty Christmas Jumper](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1573051680-51quMIMeFOL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07G1Z4K14?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Numskull Rainbow Morty Christmas Jumper [\$59 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07G1Z4K14?tag=digitalspy.com-21) Credit: Rick and Morty [![Rick and Morty Monopoly Board Game](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1573051080-51gCfRn485L.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0773PLQR3?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Winning Moves Rick and Morty Monopoly Board Game [£38 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0773PLQR3?tag=digitalspy.com-21) Credit: Hasbro [![Rick and Morty Total Rickall Cooperative Card Game](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1573051519-612CIWxvsmL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01BEZTEXS?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Cryptozoic Entertainment Rick and Morty Total Rickall Cooperative Card Game [£16 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01BEZTEXS?tag=digitalspy.com-21) Credit: Cryptozoic [![Rick and Morty Cluedo Board Game](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1573051277-61dhPtSK0L.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B078JNK659?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Winning Moves Rick and Morty Cluedo Board Game Now 11% Off [£31 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B078JNK659?tag=digitalspy.com-21) Credit: Winning Moves [![Rick and Morty Top Trumps Card Game](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1573051448-41YavPrJSoL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07C7H2FM1?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Top Trumps Rick and Morty Top Trumps Card Game [£6 at Amazon](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07C7H2FM1?tag=digitalspy.com-21) Credit: Top Trumps This month, Digital Spy Magazine counts down the 50 greatest LGBTQ+ TV characters since the Stonewall riots. Read every issue now with [a 1-month free trial, only on Apple News+](https://apple.news/IiU7-f0TgQOu_A0icBRbRtQ). Interested in Digital Spy's weekly newsletter? [Sign up](https://link.digitalspy.co.uk/join/signup-digital-spy-allnewsletters) to get it sent straight to your inbox – and don't forget to join our [Watch This Facebook Group](https://bit.ly/watchthisds) for daily TV recommendations and discussions with other readers.** ![Headshot of David Opie](https://hips.hearstapps.com/rover/profile_photos/3a20261e-448b-4e78-ac5f-d6eb161c77e0_1571838059.file?fill=1:1&resize=120:) [David Opie](https://www.digitalspy.com/author/628115/david-opie/) After teaching in England and South Korea, David turned to writing in Germany, where he covered everything from superhero movies to the Berlin Film Festival. In 2019, David moved to London to join [Digital Spy](https://www.digitalspy.com/),* where he could indulge his love of comics, horror and [LGBTQ+](https://www.digitalspy.com/lgbtq/) storytelling as Deputy TV Editor, and later, as Acting TV Editor. David has spoken on numerous LGBTQ+ panels to discuss queer representation and in 2020, he created the Rainbow Crew interview series, which celebrates LGBTQ+ talent on both sides of the camera via video content and longform reads. Beyond that, David has interviewed all your faves, including Henry Cavill, Pedro Pascal, Olivia Colman, Patrick Stewart, Ncuti Gatwa, Jamie Dornan, Regina King, and more — not to mention countless [Drag Race](https://www.digitalspy.com/rupauls-drag-race/) legends. As a freelance entertainment journalist, David has bylines across a range of publications including Empire Online, [Radio Times](https://www.radiotimes.com/author/davidopie/), INTO, Highsnobiety, [Den of Geek](https://www.denofgeek.com/author/david-opie/), The Digital Fix and Sight & Sound. 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Readable Markdown	**Rick and Morty season 5 episode 1 spoilers follow.** [Rick and Morty](https://www.digitalspy.com/rick-and-morty/) kicks [season five](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a30104312/rick-and-morty-season-5-release-date-episodes-cast-trailer/) off in schwifty fashion with a bunch of alternate-reality crystals that hint at the endless possibilities of the multiverse. "Were we Blades in that one?" Rick asks during this cold open. Yes, ever so briefly, we get to see Rick and Morty decked out in their slickest Wesley Snipes attire. And in the episode that follows, Rick and Morty finally starts to open itself up to a more traditional, but no less important possibility. In this first scene, Morty is in charge for once, and while we don't know what happened beforehand, Rick is clearly in bad shape. That means it's up to his grandson to rescue them both, but as their ship crashes through the atmosphere, it appears that all hope is lost. That is, until Jessica calls Morty up and asks if they can hang out. Driven by his horny teen desires, Morty makes one last go of it and lands their ship in the ocean, bringing them both to safety. Except, they're not really safe at all, because the sea is a no-go zone for the Smith family. By entering this space, Rick has violated his agreement with Nimbus, an even hornier sea king who is somehow Rick's "greatest nemesis". ![rick and morty season 5](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/rick-and-morty-season-5-1623424070.jpg?crop=0.563xw:1.00xh;0.266xw,0&resize=980:) Channel 4 This opening sets up a typically deranged episode full of time distortion, robot birds, and uncomfortable orgies. Essentially, it's the Rick and Morty* that fans know and love. But more importantly than that, this episode doesn't reset the status quo, which is a welcome change for this show. Things are looking up for Morty in season five. Jessica is actually up for hanging out and he survived the crash intact, so that's also a big bonus. There's just one problem – his grandfather. With Nimbus heading to the Smith house for dinner, Rick wants his grandson to go fetch him some wine from another dimension, but Morty is fed up of being treated like an errand boy. The cracks were already beginning to show a bit in season four, but just a few minutes into season five, Morty finally vents his frustrations, complaining to Rick that he hasn't finished a whole week of school in years thanks to his grandfather. After that, Morty does end up going to get the wine, kicking off an epic revenge story which spans multiple dimensions and eons of time itself. But what's crucial here is that Morty no longer takes Rick's abuse at face value. After years of mistreatment, Morty is ready to stand up for himself, and it looks like all of his inter-dimensional travels have hardened him too. "Sometimes you've gotta be an asshole," Morty says after murdering generations of people who believe him to be an evil god. "My grandfather taught me that." Morty's not the only one who's changing either. Summer is way more adventurous than she used to be and their parents are also evolving, particularly when it comes to the intricacies of their marriage. And by intricacies, we mean them deciding to bang Nimbus together in a government-approved three-way. That's a marked change from season four, which mostly dealt with standalone stories that did little to advance the overarching story. To be fair though, it's easy to see why that happened. ![rick and morty season 5](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/rick-and-morty-season-5-2-1623424070.jpg?crop=0.5625xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:) Channel 4 If every episode dramatically moved things forward, the writers might reach their endgame far too quickly, and that would be tough given the [70-episode order](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a856811/rick-and-morty-renewed-70-episodes/) they need to fulfil. The success of one-off adventures like the Emmy-winning ['Vat of Acid Episode'](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a32573853/rick-and-morty-south-park-easter-egg-twist/) further proved that standalone stories are vital to the show's appeal, but that hasn't stopped fans from wanting more. From [Evil Morty](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a32613249/rick-and-morty-season-4-evil-morty-origin/) to that* [Talking Cat](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a34756901/rick-and-morty-talking-cat-meaning/), the demand to see beloved characters and story arcs return has increased more and more in recent years. Fan pressure shouldn't always be the guiding force behind creative decisions, not by any means, but there is something to be said for character development too. Five seasons in, the Smiths need to evolve and grow more to keep fans invested. And would it be so bad to finally give us some answers to at least some of the [show's biggest mysteries](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a33544469/rick-and-morty-fan-theory-anime-genocider/)? If this first episode is anything to go by, then Rick and Morty definitely seems more concerned with tackling these issues in season five. Rick even addresses this directly when he tells Nimbus, "Don't establish canonical backstory with me." Is that just a knowing acknowledgement of the show's new leanings or will the likes of [Diane, Rick's ex-wife](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a32930021/rick-and-morty-season-5-wife-beths-mother-mrs-sanchez/), actually resurface at some point soon? Speaking to Digital Spy and other press just recently, show creator Dan Harmon discussed all this in more detail: "It's really weird in animation because obviously Morty has to be 14 forever. Summer is 17 forever. Rick is whatever he is forever. So that question becomes like: do your characters grow and change? I'm firmly against that reset-button-hitting where it's like there's no awareness present. I look at it as like smoking meat versus cooking it. You let the flavour itself happen, and let that change things." The challenges that Dan describes here are not unique to Rick and Morty. Most animated sitcoms have to balance accessibility with character development for longterm fans, and this issue only becomes more apparent the longer each show is on the air. After all, [The Simpsons](https://www.digitalspy.com/the-simpsons/) has already proved that longevity can be a curse if not handled right, but with plenty of seasons to go, it's refreshing to see that Rick and Morty is now starting to reckon with this more in season five. ![star mort rickturn of the jerri rick and morty adult swim season 4 finale](https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/star-mort-rickturn-of-the-jerri-rick-and-morty-adult-swim-season-4-finale-1591004248.jpg?crop=0.543xw:1.00xh;0.263xw,0&resize=980:) Adult Swim "Morty is getting sick of Rick’s crap," Harmon continued. "And he should. We wouldn't want to watch him wake up every day and go, 'I wonder what my loving grandpa has planned for me?'" Dan's right, and it's reassuring to hear him acknowledge this, but that's not to say everything's suddenly perfect now. Following the events of season four, it does feel odd that [Space Beth](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a35161518/rick-and-morty-season-5-space-beth-sarah-chalke/) doesn't make an appearance here, and Rick's downbeat ending is also pretty much ignored. But for now, we'll give Rick and Morty* the benefit of the doubt. After all, it's impossible to judge an entire season based on just one episode, and writer Scott Marder has promised that fans will indeed get some "[epic canon](https://www.digitalspy.com/tv/ustv/a34685852/rick-and-morty-season-5-canon/)" beyond the first episode. Let's just hope that the rest of season five invests in more emotional beats along with the laughs or before long, the possibility of another renewal will be looking less and less likely in any dimension. *Rick and Morty* airs on Adult Swim in the US, and on E4 and All 4 in the UK. [![Rick and Morty season 4 DVD](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1626965256-51l0bQyC2qL._SL500_.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08DBYPWGY?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Cartoon Network Rick and Morty season 4 DVD Credit: Adult Swim [![Rick and Morty Season 1-3 \[Blu-Ray\]](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1573053428-511PG0pmhOL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07LGPFVKT?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Spirit Entertainment Rick and Morty Season 1-3 \[Blu-Ray\] Credit: Spirit Entertainment [![Rick Funko Pop! Vinyl](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1573052883-51iPeZ1dhL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01FIF06VY?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Funko Rick Funko Pop! Vinyl Credit: Funko [![Morty Funko Pop! Vinyl](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1573052989-51mqyAnb9AL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01FIF06S2?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Funko Morty Funko Pop! Vinyl Credit: Funko [![Pickle Rick with Laser Figure Funko Pop! Vinyl](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1573052638-51EUQmublML.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07569HX5Z?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Funko Pickle Rick with Laser Figure Funko Pop! Vinyl Credit: Funko [![Mr Meeseeks Funko Pop! Vinyl](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1573053031-51plogACbtL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01MY7PEIP?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Funko Mr Meeseeks Funko Pop! Vinyl Now 10% Off Credit: Funko [![Rick and Morty men's hooded sweatshirt](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1626965640-41rviNPRGZL._SL500_.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B082BFGRRK?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Cartoon Network Rick and Morty men's hooded sweatshirt Credit: Adult Swim [![Rick and Morty women's sweatshirt](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1626965900-41Mms-h9YAL._SL500_.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B082BYP5TT?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Cartoon Network Rick and Morty women's sweatshirt Credit: Adult Swim [![Rainbow Morty Christmas Jumper](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1573051680-51quMIMeFOL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07G1Z4K14?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Numskull Rainbow Morty Christmas Jumper Credit: Rick and Morty [![Rick and Morty Monopoly Board Game](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1573051080-51gCfRn485L.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0773PLQR3?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Winning Moves Rick and Morty Monopoly Board Game Credit: Hasbro [![Rick and Morty Total Rickall Cooperative Card Game](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1573051519-612CIWxvsmL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01BEZTEXS?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Cryptozoic Entertainment Rick and Morty Total Rickall Cooperative Card Game Credit: Cryptozoic [![Rick and Morty Cluedo Board Game](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1573051277-61dhPtSK0L.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B078JNK659?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Winning Moves Rick and Morty Cluedo Board Game Now 11% Off Credit: Winning Moves [![Rick and Morty Top Trumps Card Game](https://hips.hearstapps.com/vader-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/1573051448-41YavPrJSoL.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:)](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07C7H2FM1?tag=digitalspy.com-21) ###### Top Trumps Rick and Morty Top Trumps Card Game Credit: Top Trumps This month, Digital Spy Magazine counts down the 50 greatest LGBTQ+ TV characters since the Stonewall riots. Read every issue now with [a 1-month free trial, only on Apple News+](https://apple.news/IiU7-f0TgQOu_A0icBRbRtQ). Interested in Digital Spy's weekly newsletter? [Sign up](https://link.digitalspy.co.uk/join/signup-digital-spy-allnewsletters) to get it sent straight to your inbox – and don't forget to join our [Watch This Facebook Group](https://bit.ly/watchthisds) for daily TV recommendations and discussions with other readers.** ![Headshot of David Opie](https://hips.hearstapps.com/rover/profile_photos/3a20261e-448b-4e78-ac5f-d6eb161c77e0_1571838059.file?fill=1:1&resize=120:) After teaching in England and South Korea, David turned to writing in Germany, where he covered everything from superhero movies to the Berlin Film Festival. In 2019, David moved to London to join [Digital Spy](https://www.digitalspy.com/),* where he could indulge his love of comics, horror and [LGBTQ+](https://www.digitalspy.com/lgbtq/) storytelling as Deputy TV Editor, and later, as Acting TV Editor. David has spoken on numerous LGBTQ+ panels to discuss queer representation and in 2020, he created the Rainbow Crew interview series, which celebrates LGBTQ+ talent on both sides of the camera via video content and longform reads. Beyond that, David has interviewed all your faves, including Henry Cavill, Pedro Pascal, Olivia Colman, Patrick Stewart, Ncuti Gatwa, Jamie Dornan, Regina King, and more — not to mention countless [Drag Race](https://www.digitalspy.com/rupauls-drag-race/) legends. As a freelance entertainment journalist, David has bylines across a range of publications including Empire Online, [Radio Times](https://www.radiotimes.com/author/davidopie/), INTO, Highsnobiety, [Den of Geek](https://www.denofgeek.com/author/david-opie/), The Digital Fix and Sight & Sound. [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-opie7/)
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