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==== Season 4 ====
==== Season 4 ====
Diggle, now going by the codename "Spartan",<ref>{{Cite tweet |number=664888530955538432 |user=mguggenheim |title='''Smoak & Arrow''': Hey is "Spartan" officially Diggle's codename now? / '''Marc Guggenheim''': Yes. |author-link=Marc Guggenheim |date=November 12, 2015 |access-date=June 26, 2018 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20180626043632/https://twitter.com/mguggenheim/status/664888530955538432 |archive-date=June 26, 2018 |dead-url=no |last=Guggenheim |first=Marc}}</ref><!-- <ref name="Green Arrow">{{Cite episode |title=Green Arrow |episode-link=Green Arrow (Arrow episode) |series=Arrow |series-link=Arrow (TV series) |network=[[The CW]] |date=October 7, 2015 |season=4 |number=1}}</ref> --> discovers that the organization that targets the newly-named Star City is H.I.V.E., who had hired Lawton to murder Andy. Diggle eventually forgives Oliver after their fight with a H.I.V.E. metahuman operative named Jeremy Tell. With Quentin Lance's help, Diggle learns that Damien Darhk had Andy murdered, and that he was a drug cartel leader and Darhk's territorial rival prior to his death. However, Diggle discovers that Darhk actually faked Andy's death and recruited him as a H.I.V.E. soldier, leading Diggle and his brother to become enemies. Guilt-ridden over his brother's role in causing Laurel's death, Diggle seeks revenge against Andy and Darhk. Diggle kills Andy after the latter nearly causes Lyla and Sara to be killed. He initially lies to Lyla, saying that he killed Andy in self-defense, but Oliver encourages Diggle to admit the truth to his wife. Diggle rejoins the US Army after confiding to his wife and Darhk's defeat.<ref name="Schism">{{Cite episode |title=Schism |series=Arrow |series-link=Arrow (TV series) |network=[[The CW]] |date=May 25, 2016 |season=4 |number=23}}</ref>
Diggle, now going by the codename "Spartan",<ref>{{Cite tweet |number=664888530955538432 |user=mguggenheim |title='''Smoak & Arrow''': Hey is "Spartan" officially Diggle's codename now? / '''Marc Guggenheim''': Yes. |author-link=Marc Guggenheim |date=November 12, 2015 |access-date=June 26, 2018 |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20180626043632/https://twitter.com/mguggenheim/status/664888530955538432 |archive-date=June 26, 2018 |dead-url=no |last=Guggenheim |first=Marc}}</ref><!-- <ref name="Green Arrow">{{Cite episode |title=Green Arrow |episode-link=Green Arrow (Arrow episode) |series=Arrow |series-link=Arrow (TV series) |network=[[The CW]] |date=October 7, 2015 |season=4 |number=1}}</ref> --> discovers that the organization that targets the newly-named Star City is H.I.V.E., who had hired Lawton to murder Andy. Diggle eventually forgives Oliver after their fight with a H.I.V.E. metahuman operative named Jeremy Tell. With Quentin Lance's help, Diggle learns that Damien Darhk had Andy murdered, and that he was a drug cartel leader and Darhk's territorial rival prior to his death. However, Diggle discovers that Darhk actually faked Andy's death and recruited him as a H.I.V.E. soldier, leading Diggle and his brother to become enemies. Guilt-ridden over his brother's role in causing Laurel's death, Diggle seeks revenge against Andy and Darhk. Diggle kills Andy after the latter nearly causes Lyla and Sara to be killed.<ref name="Genesis">{{Cite episode |title=Genesis |series=Arrow |series-link=Arrow (TV series) |network=[[The CW]] |date=May 4, 2016 |season=4 |number=20}}</ref> He initially lies to Lyla, saying that he killed Andy in self-defense, but Oliver encourages Diggle to admit the truth to his wife. Diggle rejoins the US Army after confiding to his wife and Darhk's defeat.<ref name="Schism">{{Cite episode |title=Schism |series=Arrow |series-link=Arrow (TV series) |network=[[The CW]] |date=May 25, 2016 |season=4 |number=23}}</ref>


==== Season 5 ====
==== Season 5 ====
Diggle is betrayed by his commanding officer, J. G. Walker, following a failed attempt to sell nuclear weapons.<ref name="The Recruits">{{Cite episode |title=The Recruits |series=Arrow |series-link=Arrow (TV series) |network=[[The CW]] |date=October 12, 2016 |season=5 |number=2}}</ref> Framed for Walker's crimes, Diggle is arrested.<ref name="A Matter of Trust">{{Cite episode |title=A Matter of Trust |series=Arrow |series-link=Arrow (TV series) |network=[[The CW]] |date=October 19, 2016 |season=5 |number=3}}</ref> Oliver and Lyla break him out of state prison, and Diggle stays at H.I.V.E.'s former base until his innocence can be proven.<ref name="Penance">{{Cite episode |title=Penance |series=Arrow |series-link=Arrow (TV series) |network=[[The CW]] |date=October 26, 2016 |season=5 |number=4}}</ref> Diggle remains guilty about killing Andy and continues to serve as Spartan to redeem himself. Due to the events of ''The Flash'' episode "Flashpoint", Diggle's family history is altered: his daughter Sara has been erased from existence and replaced by John "J.J." Diggle, Jr., as a result of a timeline change caused by Eobard Thawne, correcting the Flashpoint reality created by Barry. Diggle eventually learns of the alteration of his life, his daughter's erasure and his son's status as a time aberration, and despite the hurt caused by these circumstances, he chooses to forgive Barry. Lyla, however, distrusts Barry for this. Felicity is able to prove John's innocence by restoring the digital files that Walker had destroyed. However, Andy's betrayal and death at Diggle's hands has taken a toll on him; he struggles to control his rage and occasionally pulverizes criminals to vent it, fueling Oliver's concern over his erratic behavior. Diggle later befriends Oliver's chosen successor to Laurel's mantle, [[Dinah Drake]], a Central City detective, and encourages her to set down roots in Star City. Diggle, along with the rest of Team Arrow, is later captured by [[Adrian Chase]] and taken to the island Lian Yu.<ref name="Missing">{{Cite episode |title=Missing |series=Arrow |series-link=Arrow (TV series) |network=[[The CW]] |date=May 17, 2017 |season=5 |number=22}}</ref> Chase later detonates the [[C-4 (explosive)|C4]]-rigged Lian Yu [[Dead man's switch|by shooting himself dead]], with Diggle still on the island.<ref name="Lian Yu">{{Cite episode |title=Lian Yu |episode-link=Lian Yu (Arrow) |series=Arrow |series-link=Arrow (TV series) |network=[[The CW]] |date=May 24, 2017 |season=5 |number=23}}</ref>
Diggle is betrayed by his commanding officer, J. G. Walker, following a failed attempt to sell nuclear weapons.<ref name="The Recruits">{{Cite episode |title=The Recruits |series=Arrow |series-link=Arrow (TV series) |network=[[The CW]] |date=October 12, 2016 |season=5 |number=2}}</ref> Framed for Walker's crimes, Diggle is arrested.<ref name="A Matter of Trust">{{Cite episode |title=A Matter of Trust |series=Arrow |series-link=Arrow (TV series) |network=[[The CW]] |date=October 19, 2016 |season=5 |number=3}}</ref> Oliver and Lyla break him out of state prison, and Diggle stays at H.I.V.E.'s former base until his innocence can be proven.<ref name="Penance">{{Cite episode |title=Penance |series=Arrow |series-link=Arrow (TV series) |network=[[The CW]] |date=October 26, 2016 |season=5 |number=4}}</ref> Diggle remains guilty about killing Andy and continues to serve as Spartan to redeem himself. Due to the events of ''The Flash'' episode "Flashpoint", Diggle's family history is altered: his daughter Sara has been erased from existence and replaced by John "J.J." Diggle, Jr., as a result of a timeline change caused by Eobard Thawne, correcting the Flashpoint reality created by Barry. Diggle eventually learns of the alteration of his life, his daughter's erasure and his son's status as a time aberration, and despite the hurt caused by these circumstances, he chooses to forgive Barry. Lyla, however, distrusts Barry for this. Felicity is able to prove John's innocence by restoring the digital files that Walker had destroyed. However, Andy's betrayal and death at Diggle's hands has taken a toll on him; he struggles to control his rage and occasionally pulverizes criminals to vent it, fueling Oliver's concern over his erratic behavior. Diggle later befriends Oliver's chosen successor to Laurel's mantle, [[Dinah Drake]], a Central City detective, and encourages her to set down roots in Star City. Diggle, along with the rest of Team Arrow, is later captured by [[Adrian Chase]] and taken to the island Lian Yu.<ref name="Missing">{{Cite episode |title=Missing |series=Arrow |series-link=Arrow (TV series) |network=[[The CW]] |date=May 17, 2017 |season=5 |number=22}}</ref> Chase later detonates the explosive-rigged Lian Yu [[Dead man's switch|by shooting himself dead]], with Diggle still on the island.<ref name="Lian Yu">{{Cite episode |title=Lian Yu |episode-link=Lian Yu (Arrow) |series=Arrow |series-link=Arrow (TV series) |network=[[The CW]] |date=May 24, 2017 |season=5 |number=23}}</ref>


==== Season 6 ====
==== Season 6 ====
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== Development ==
== Development ==
In February 2012, [[David Ramsey]] was cast in the [[Pilot (Arrow)|pilot episode]] of ''[[Arrow (TV series)|Arrow]]'' as John Diggle, a "former military man now working as a bodyguard for hire who soon finds he is trapped in a battle of wits, loyalty and trust".<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://variety.com/2012/tv/news/ramsey-cast-in-cw-s-arrow-pilot-1118049941/ |title=Ramsey cast in CW's ‘Arrow’ pilot |last=Levine |first=Stuart |date=February 9, 2012 |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |access-date=June 16, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140717191653/http://variety.com/2012/tv/news/ramsey-cast-in-cw-s-arrow-pilot-1118049941/ |archive-date=July 17, 2014 |dead-url=no}}</ref> The character was created by ''Arrow'' creators [[Greg Berlanti]], [[Marc Guggenheim]] and [[Andrew Kreisberg]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.techtimes.com/articles/31567/20150207/arrows-john-diggle-really-stewart-actor-david-ramsey-speaks.htm|title=Is Arrow's John Diggle Really John Stewart, A.K.A. The Green Lantern?|last=Parrish|first=Robin|date=February 7, 2015|work=Tech Times|access-date=June 22, 2018|language=en|deadurl=no|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305152139/http://www.techtimes.com/articles/31567/20150207/arrows-john-diggle-really-stewart-actor-david-ramsey-speaks.htm|archivedate=March 5, 2016|df=mdy-all}}</ref> Named after comic book writer [[Andy Diggle]], and created specifically for the show, Guggenheim said Diggle was designed to be Oliver's equal in "many respects" such as their abilities and intelligence. He further explained that Diggle's mutual abilities were a means of setting him up early in the series as a confidant for Oliver's vigilante persona.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.greenarrowtv.com/interview-marc-guggenheim-unlocks-the-secrets-connections-in-arrow/11329/ |title=Interview: Marc Guggenheim Unlocks The Secrets & Connections In Arrow |last=Byrne |first=Craig |date=July 19, 2012 |website=Green Arrow TV |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180619140120/http://www.greenarrowtv.com/interview-marc-guggenheim-unlocks-the-secrets-connections-in-arrow/11329/ |archive-date=June 19, 2018 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 16, 2018}}</ref> Ramsey enjoyed the fact that he did not have to worry about matching the comic books, saying, it allowed him to "just kind of take [his character], and run with it".<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/comic-riffs/post/green-arrow-jeff-lemire-david-ramsey-shed-light-on-the-new-synergy-between-cw-hit-and-the-dc-comic/2013/10/09/20063d78-308c-11e3-9ccc-2252bdb14df5_blog.html?utm_term=.c9ce24893702 |title=The new synergy between CW's ‘Arrow,’ DC's Green Arrow |last=Betancourt |first=David |date=October 9, 2013 |work=[[The Washington Post]] |access-date=June 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180619140121/https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/comic-riffs/post/green-arrow-jeff-lemire-david-ramsey-shed-light-on-the-new-synergy-between-cw-hit-and-the-dc-comic/2013/10/09/20063d78-308c-11e3-9ccc-2252bdb14df5_blog.html?utm_term=.c9ce24893702 |archive-date=June 19, 2018 |dead-url=no}}</ref> He compared Diggle to [[Alfred Pennyworth]] from the [[Batman]] comics, calling the character Oliver's "moral voice". Ramsey, who has trained in various martial arts such as [[Wing Chun]], [[Jeet Kune Do]], and [[kickboxing]], used his martial arts expertise to make Diggle believable, saying, "I think, honestly, it has to do with...having Diggle able to not just handle himself on screen but be able to really proficiently use the (martial) arts — and look like he is a trained soldier. You don't see the stunt guy. You actually see David Ramsey doing it."<ref name="way of life">{{Cite web |url=https://medium.com/@brianrsheridan/for-arrow-star-david-ramsey-martial-arts-is-a-way-of-life-5968e109e5cd |title=For ‘Arrow’ Star David Ramsey, martial arts is a way of life |last=Sheridan |first=Brian R. |date=August 6, 2015 |website=[[Medium (website)|Medium]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180616155032/https://medium.com/@brianrsheridan/for-arrow-star-david-ramsey-martial-arts-is-a-way-of-life-5968e109e5cd |archive-date=June 16, 2018 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 16, 2018}}</ref> He has stated that since Diggle is older than most of Team Arrow and, to an extent, more experienced on the field and reconnaissance fighting, the other members "look to him for some leadership".<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.cbr.com/arrows-david-ramsey-talks-olivers-absence-masking-diggle/ |title="Arrow's" David Ramsey Talks Oliver's Absence, Masking Diggle |last=Huver |first=Scott |date=January 16, 2015 |website=[[Comic Book Resources]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180622062402/https://www.cbr.com/arrows-david-ramsey-talks-olivers-absence-masking-diggle/ |archive-date=June 22, 2018 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 22, 2018}}</ref> A [[running gag]] is that Diggle, whenever taken suddenly to places by Barry Allen at super-speed, vomits as a result of [[motion sickness]].<ref name="all-time favorite">{{Cite web |url=https://www.dccomics.com/blog/2018/05/15/the-flash-diggle-drops-in |title=The Flash: Diggle Drops In |last=Robinson |first=Ashley V. |date=May 15, 2018 |website=DC Comics |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180622063405/https://www.dccomics.com/blog/2018/05/15/the-flash-diggle-drops-in |archive-date=June 22, 2018 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 22, 2018}}</ref>
In February 2012, [[David Ramsey]] was cast in the [[Pilot (Arrow)|pilot episode]] of ''[[Arrow (TV series)|Arrow]]'' as John Diggle, a "former military man now working as a bodyguard for hire who soon finds he is trapped in a battle of wits, loyalty and trust".<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://variety.com/2012/tv/news/ramsey-cast-in-cw-s-arrow-pilot-1118049941/ |title=Ramsey cast in CW's ‘Arrow’ pilot |last=Levine |first=Stuart |date=February 9, 2012 |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |access-date=June 16, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140717191653/http://variety.com/2012/tv/news/ramsey-cast-in-cw-s-arrow-pilot-1118049941/ |archive-date=July 17, 2014 |dead-url=no}}</ref> The character was created by ''Arrow'' creators [[Greg Berlanti]], [[Marc Guggenheim]] and [[Andrew Kreisberg]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.techtimes.com/articles/31567/20150207/arrows-john-diggle-really-stewart-actor-david-ramsey-speaks.htm|title=Is Arrow's John Diggle Really John Stewart, A.K.A. The Green Lantern?|last=Parrish|first=Robin|date=February 7, 2015|work=Tech Times|access-date=June 22, 2018|language=en|deadurl=no|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305152139/http://www.techtimes.com/articles/31567/20150207/arrows-john-diggle-really-stewart-actor-david-ramsey-speaks.htm|archivedate=March 5, 2016}}</ref> Named after comic book writer [[Andy Diggle]], and created specifically for the series, Guggenheim said Diggle was designed to be Oliver's equal in "many respects" such as their abilities and intelligence. He further explained that Diggle's mutual abilities were a means of setting him up early in the series as a confidant for Oliver's vigilante persona.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.greenarrowtv.com/interview-marc-guggenheim-unlocks-the-secrets-connections-in-arrow/11329/ |title=Interview: Marc Guggenheim Unlocks The Secrets & Connections In Arrow |last=Byrne |first=Craig |date=July 19, 2012 |website=Green Arrow TV |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180619140120/http://www.greenarrowtv.com/interview-marc-guggenheim-unlocks-the-secrets-connections-in-arrow/11329/ |archive-date=June 19, 2018 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 16, 2018}}</ref> Ramsey enjoyed the fact that he did not have to worry about matching the comic books, saying, it allowed him to "just kind of take [his character], and run with it".<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/comic-riffs/post/green-arrow-jeff-lemire-david-ramsey-shed-light-on-the-new-synergy-between-cw-hit-and-the-dc-comic/2013/10/09/20063d78-308c-11e3-9ccc-2252bdb14df5_blog.html?utm_term=.c9ce24893702 |title=The new synergy between CW's ‘Arrow,’ DC's Green Arrow |last=Betancourt |first=David |date=October 9, 2013 |work=[[The Washington Post]] |access-date=June 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180619140121/https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/comic-riffs/post/green-arrow-jeff-lemire-david-ramsey-shed-light-on-the-new-synergy-between-cw-hit-and-the-dc-comic/2013/10/09/20063d78-308c-11e3-9ccc-2252bdb14df5_blog.html?utm_term=.c9ce24893702 |archive-date=June 19, 2018 |dead-url=no}}</ref> He compared Diggle to [[Alfred Pennyworth]] from the [[Batman]] comics, calling the character Oliver's "moral voice". Ramsey, who has trained in various martial arts such as [[Wing Chun]], [[Jeet Kune Do]], and [[kickboxing]], used his martial arts expertise to make Diggle believable, saying, "I think, honestly, it has to do with...having Diggle able to not just handle himself on screen but be able to really proficiently use the (martial) arts — and look like he is a trained soldier. You don't see the stunt guy. You actually see David Ramsey doing it."<ref name="way of life">{{Cite web |url=https://medium.com/@brianrsheridan/for-arrow-star-david-ramsey-martial-arts-is-a-way-of-life-5968e109e5cd |title=For ‘Arrow’ Star David Ramsey, martial arts is a way of life |last=Sheridan |first=Brian R. |date=August 6, 2015 |website=[[Medium (website)|Medium]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180616155032/https://medium.com/@brianrsheridan/for-arrow-star-david-ramsey-martial-arts-is-a-way-of-life-5968e109e5cd |archive-date=June 16, 2018 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 16, 2018}}</ref> He has stated that since Diggle is older than most of Team Arrow and, to an extent, more experienced on the field and reconnaissance fighting, the other members "look to him for some leadership".<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.cbr.com/arrows-david-ramsey-talks-olivers-absence-masking-diggle/ |title="Arrow's" David Ramsey Talks Oliver's Absence, Masking Diggle |last=Huver |first=Scott |date=January 16, 2015 |website=[[Comic Book Resources]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180622062402/https://www.cbr.com/arrows-david-ramsey-talks-olivers-absence-masking-diggle/ |archive-date=June 22, 2018 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 22, 2018}}</ref> A [[running gag]] is that Diggle, whenever taken suddenly to places by Barry Allen at super-speed, vomits as a result of [[motion sickness]].<ref name="all-time favorite">{{Cite web |url=https://www.dccomics.com/blog/2018/05/15/the-flash-diggle-drops-in |title=The Flash: Diggle Drops In |last=Robinson |first=Ashley V. |date=May 15, 2018 |website=DC Comics |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180622063405/https://www.dccomics.com/blog/2018/05/15/the-flash-diggle-drops-in |archive-date=June 22, 2018 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 22, 2018}}</ref>


=== Relationships ===
=== Relationships ===
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=== Costumes ===
=== Costumes ===
For the first three seasons of ''Arrow'', Diggle does not have a vigilante costume.<ref name="season 6 costume" /> By the time season 4 begins, he has gained one, which consists of a helmet and black gear.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.digitalspy.com/tv/arrow/news/a666819/john-diggle-gets-his-own-super-suit-in-this-cool-new-picture-from-arrow-season-4/|title=Arrow season 4: See Diggle's super-suit|last=Harp|first=Justin|date=September 3, 2015|work=[[Digital Spy]]|access-date=June 19, 2018|deadurl=no|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20171028181641/http://www.digitalspy.com/tv/arrow/news/a666819/john-diggle-gets-his-own-super-suit-in-this-cool-new-picture-from-arrow-season-4/|archivedate=October 28, 2017}}</ref> Via social media, the helmet was criticised by fans for its resemblance to that worn by the [[Marvel Comics]] character [[Magneto (comics)|Magneto]]. In response to the criticism, Ramsey said, "I know there's a lot of criticism that it looks like the Magneto helmet. But by the time you see Diggle in action&nbsp;– we also get into what the helmet can do&nbsp;– you won't be thinking of the [[X-Men]] at all."<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newsarama.com/26076-diggle-responds-to-costume-criticism.html|title=Arrow's Diggle Actor Responds To Costume Criticism|last=Marston|first=George|date=September 28, 2015|work=[[Newsarama]]|access-date=June 19, 2018|deadurl=no|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160108211553/http://www.newsarama.com/26076-diggle-responds-to-costume-criticism.html|archivedate=January 8, 2016}}</ref> In season 5, Diggle replaces his helmet with a new one, which Ramsey said can do "extraordinary things", apart from being just about concealment.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.buddytv.com/articles/arrow/arrow-interview-david-ramsey-t-60834.aspx |title='Arrow' Interview: David Ramsey Teases Diggle's New Helmet Is More Than Just Concealment |last=Jacobs |first=Meredith |date=August 5, 2016 |website=[[BuddyTV]] |access-date=June 19, 2018 |deadurl=bot: unknown |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160805233437/http://www.buddytv.com/articles/arrow/arrow-interview-david-ramsey-t-60834.aspx |archivedate=August 5, 2016 }}</ref> Concept artist Andy Poon said the new helmet offers Diggle "full protection". He added that, since Diggle's codename is Spartan, he decided to make the helmet resemble "an actual [[Spartan army|spartan]] helmet design". Poon, a comic book fan himself, thought the new helmet would fix "the issues regarding some of the fan feedback about [the older helmet] looking similar to other comic book characters".<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.cbr.com/exclusive-diggles-helmet-gets-an-upgrade-in-new-arrow-concept-art/ |title=EXCLUSIVE: Arrow Concept Artist Andy Poon on Diggle's New Spartan Helmet |last=Gallaway |first=Lauren |date=November 4, 2016 |website=[[Comic Book Resources]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161107081804/http://www.cbr.com/exclusive-diggles-helmet-gets-an-upgrade-in-new-arrow-concept-art/ |archive-date=November 7, 2016 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 25, 2018 |df=mdy-all}}</ref> Early in season 6, when Diggle takes up the Green Arrow mantle at Oliver's request, he wields a crossbow named "Green Monster" that was created by Felicity and Curtis and fires arrows.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://tvline.com/2017/10/26/arrow-recap-season-6-episode-3-olicity-sex-diggle-green-arrow/ |title=Arrow Recap: New to the Hood&nbsp;— Plus: What Did Oliver Give Felicity? |last=Mitovich |first=Matt Webb |date=October 27, 2017 |website=[[TVLine]] |access-date=June 22, 2018 |deadurl=no |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180220153639/http://tvline.com/2017/10/26/arrow-recap-season-6-episode-3-olicity-sex-diggle-green-arrow/ |archivedate=February 20, 2018 |df=mdy-all }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.inverse.com/article/37813-arrow-season-6-next-of-kin-recap-oracle-crossbow |title=Another Batman Easter Egg Wasn't Even the Biggest Reveal on 'Arrow' |last=Francisco |first=Eric |date=October 27, 2017 |website=[[Inverse (website)|Inverse]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171227230524/https://www.inverse.com/article/37813-arrow-season-6-next-of-kin-recap-oracle-crossbow |archive-date=December 27, 2017 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 22, 2018 |df=mdy-all}}</ref> Later in the season, Diggle gains both a new Spartan costume and helmet, which eschew the gray overtones of previous Spartan costumes, and instead have a black and red scheme.<ref name="season 6 costume">{{Cite web |url=https://www.cbr.com/arrow-diggle-new-spartan-costume/ |title=Arrow: Diggle Debuts New Spartan Costume |last=Damore |first=Meagan |date=January 25, 2018 |website=[[Comic Book Resources]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180224141809/https://www.cbr.com/arrow-diggle-new-spartan-costume/ |archive-date=February 24, 2018 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 19, 2018}}</ref>
For the first three seasons of ''Arrow'', Diggle does not have a vigilante costume.<ref name="season 6 costume" /> By the time season 4 begins, he has gained one, which consists of a helmet and black gear.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.digitalspy.com/tv/arrow/news/a666819/john-diggle-gets-his-own-super-suit-in-this-cool-new-picture-from-arrow-season-4/|title=Arrow season 4: See Diggle's super-suit|last=Harp|first=Justin|date=September 3, 2015|work=[[Digital Spy]]|access-date=June 19, 2018|deadurl=no|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20171028181641/http://www.digitalspy.com/tv/arrow/news/a666819/john-diggle-gets-his-own-super-suit-in-this-cool-new-picture-from-arrow-season-4/|archivedate=October 28, 2017}}</ref> Via social media, the helmet was criticised by fans for its resemblance to that worn by the [[Marvel Comics]] character [[Magneto (comics)|Magneto]]. In response to the criticism, Ramsey said, "I know there's a lot of criticism that it looks like the Magneto helmet. But by the time you see Diggle in action&nbsp;– we also get into what the helmet can do&nbsp;– you won't be thinking of the [[X-Men]] at all."<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.newsarama.com/26076-diggle-responds-to-costume-criticism.html|title=Arrow's Diggle Actor Responds To Costume Criticism|last=Marston|first=George|date=September 28, 2015|work=[[Newsarama]]|access-date=June 19, 2018|deadurl=no|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160108211553/http://www.newsarama.com/26076-diggle-responds-to-costume-criticism.html|archivedate=January 8, 2016}}</ref> In season 5, Diggle replaces his helmet with a new one, which Ramsey said can do "extraordinary things", apart from being just about concealment.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.buddytv.com/articles/arrow/arrow-interview-david-ramsey-t-60834.aspx |title='Arrow' Interview: David Ramsey Teases Diggle's New Helmet Is More Than Just Concealment |last=Jacobs |first=Meredith |date=August 5, 2016 |website=[[BuddyTV]] |access-date=June 19, 2018 |deadurl=bot: unknown |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160805233437/http://www.buddytv.com/articles/arrow/arrow-interview-david-ramsey-t-60834.aspx |archivedate=August 5, 2016 }}</ref> Concept artist Andy Poon said the new helmet offers Diggle "full protection". He added that, since Diggle's codename is Spartan, he decided to make the helmet resemble "an actual [[Spartan army|spartan]] helmet design". Poon, a comic book fan himself, thought the new helmet would fix "the issues regarding some of the fan feedback about [the older helmet] looking similar to other comic book characters".<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.cbr.com/exclusive-diggles-helmet-gets-an-upgrade-in-new-arrow-concept-art/ |title=EXCLUSIVE: Arrow Concept Artist Andy Poon on Diggle's New Spartan Helmet |last=Gallaway |first=Lauren |date=November 4, 2016 |website=[[Comic Book Resources]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161107081804/http://www.cbr.com/exclusive-diggles-helmet-gets-an-upgrade-in-new-arrow-concept-art/ |archive-date=November 7, 2016 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 25, 2018 }}</ref> Early in season 6, when Diggle takes up the Green Arrow mantle at Oliver's request, he wields a crossbow named "Green Monster" that was created by Felicity and Curtis and fires arrows.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://tvline.com/2017/10/26/arrow-recap-season-6-episode-3-olicity-sex-diggle-green-arrow/ |title=Arrow Recap: New to the Hood&nbsp;— Plus: What Did Oliver Give Felicity? |last=Mitovich |first=Matt Webb |date=October 27, 2017 |website=[[TVLine]] |access-date=June 22, 2018 |deadurl=no |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180220153639/http://tvline.com/2017/10/26/arrow-recap-season-6-episode-3-olicity-sex-diggle-green-arrow/ |archivedate=February 20, 2018 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.inverse.com/article/37813-arrow-season-6-next-of-kin-recap-oracle-crossbow |title=Another Batman Easter Egg Wasn't Even the Biggest Reveal on 'Arrow' |last=Francisco |first=Eric |date=October 27, 2017 |website=[[Inverse (website)|Inverse]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171227230524/https://www.inverse.com/article/37813-arrow-season-6-next-of-kin-recap-oracle-crossbow |archive-date=December 27, 2017 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 22, 2018 }}</ref> Later in the season, Diggle gains both a new Spartan costume and helmet, which eschew the gray overtones of previous Spartan costumes, and instead have a black and red scheme.<ref name="season 6 costume">{{Cite web |url=https://www.cbr.com/arrow-diggle-new-spartan-costume/ |title=Arrow: Diggle Debuts New Spartan Costume |last=Damore |first=Meagan |date=January 25, 2018 |website=[[Comic Book Resources]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180224141809/https://www.cbr.com/arrow-diggle-new-spartan-costume/ |archive-date=February 24, 2018 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 19, 2018}}</ref>


== Reception ==
== Reception ==
Writing for the [[DC Comics]] website, Ashley V. Robinson named Diggle as one of her "all-time favorite characters".<ref name="all-time favorite" />
Writing for the [[DC Comics]] website, Ashley V. Robinson named Diggle as one of her "all-time favorite characters".<ref name="all-time favorite" /> Jesse Schedeen of [[IGN]] praised Ramsey's performance in the episode "Brothers in Arms", calling it "easily Ramsey’s strongest episode in a long time".<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://in.ign.com/brothers-in-arms-arrow/121080/review/arrow-brothers-in-arms-review|title=Arrow: "Brothers in Arms" Review|last=Schedeen|first=Jesse|date=April 6, 2018|work=[[IGN]]|access-date=June 27, 2018|language=en-US}}</ref>


== In other media ==
== In other media ==
=== Print media ===
=== Print media ===
The character appeared in ''Arrow 2.5'', a bi-weekly digital comic series that bridged the gap between the end of season two and the start of season three.<ref name="Comic2.5">{{Cite web |url=http://www.tvguide.com/News/DC-Arrow-Comics-1084098.aspx |title=Exclusive: DC Entertainment Launches New Arrow and The Flash Digital Comics |last=Sands |first=Rich |date=July 9, 2014 |website=[[TV Guide]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140712005322/http://www.tvguide.com/News/DC-Arrow-Comics-1084098.aspx |archive-date=July 12, 2014 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 25, 2018 |df=mdy-all}}</ref>
The character appeared in ''Arrow 2.5'', a bi-weekly digital comic series that bridged the gap between the end of season two and the start of season three.<ref name="Comic2.5">{{Cite web |url=http://www.tvguide.com/News/DC-Arrow-Comics-1084098.aspx |title=Exclusive: DC Entertainment Launches New Arrow and The Flash Digital Comics |last=Sands |first=Rich |date=July 9, 2014 |website=[[TV Guide]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140712005322/http://www.tvguide.com/News/DC-Arrow-Comics-1084098.aspx |archive-date=July 12, 2014 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 25, 2018 }}</ref>


He also features in the tie-in novels published for the series, ''Arrow: Vengeance'', written by [[Oscar Balderrama]] and Lauren Certo,<ref>{{Cite book |url=http://titanbooks.com/arrow-vengeance-arrow-novel-1-7925/ |title=Arrow:Vengeance |last=Balderrama |first=Oscar |last2=Certo |first2=Lauren |date=February 23, 2016 |publisher=Titan Books |isbn=978-1-78329-484-8 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150907213930/http://titanbooks.com/arrow-vengeance-arrow-novel-1-7925/ |archive-date=September 7, 2015 |dead-url=no |df=mdy-all}}</ref> ''The Flash: The Haunting of Barry Allen'' written by Susan and Clay Griffith,<ref>{{Cite book |url=http://titanbooks.com/flash-the-haunting-of-barry-allen-8731/ |title=The Flash:The Haunting of Barry Allen |last=Griffith |first=Susan |last2=Griffith |first2=Clay |date=November 29, 2016 |publisher=Titan Books |isbn=978-1-78565-141-0 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170206184739/http://titanbooks.com/flash-the-haunting-of-barry-allen-8731/ |archive-date=February 6, 2017 |dead-url=no |df=mdy-all}}</ref> and its sequel ''Arrow: A Generation of Vipers'' from the same authors,<ref>{{Cite book |url=http://titanbooks.com/arrow-a-generation-of-vipers-7926/ |title=Arrow: A Generation of Vipers |last=Griffith |first=Susan |last2=Griffith |first2=Clay |date=March 28, 2017 |publisher=Titan Books |isbn=978-1-78329-485-5 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171004034924/https://titanbooks.com/arrow-a-generation-of-vipers-7926/ |archive-date=October 4, 2017 |dead-url=no |df=mdy-all}}</ref> as well as ''Arrow Fatal Legacies'', co-authored by [[Marc Guggenheim]] and James R. Tuck, published in January 2018. This novel bridged the gap between the season five finale and the season six premiere of ''[[Arrow (TV series)|Arrow]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.bleedingcool.com/2017/08/12/marc-guggenheim-arrow-novel/ |title=Marc Guggenheim To Write Novel Connecting Arrow Seasons 5 and 6 |last=Wickline |first=Dan |date=August 12, 2017 |website=[[Bleeding Cool]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201050310/https://www.bleedingcool.com/2017/08/12/marc-guggenheim-arrow-novel/ |archive-date=December 1, 2017 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 25, 2018 |df=mdy-all}}</ref>
He also features in the tie-in novels published for the series, ''Arrow: Vengeance'', written by [[Oscar Balderrama]] and Lauren Certo,<ref>{{Cite book |url=http://titanbooks.com/arrow-vengeance-arrow-novel-1-7925/ |title=Arrow:Vengeance |last=Balderrama |first=Oscar |last2=Certo |first2=Lauren |date=February 23, 2016 |publisher=Titan Books |isbn=978-1-78329-484-8 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150907213930/http://titanbooks.com/arrow-vengeance-arrow-novel-1-7925/ |archive-date=September 7, 2015 |dead-url=no }}</ref> ''The Flash: The Haunting of Barry Allen'' written by Susan and Clay Griffith,<ref>{{Cite book |url=http://titanbooks.com/flash-the-haunting-of-barry-allen-8731/ |title=The Flash:The Haunting of Barry Allen |last=Griffith |first=Susan |last2=Griffith |first2=Clay |date=November 29, 2016 |publisher=Titan Books |isbn=978-1-78565-141-0 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170206184739/http://titanbooks.com/flash-the-haunting-of-barry-allen-8731/ |archive-date=February 6, 2017 |dead-url=no }}</ref> and its sequel ''Arrow: A Generation of Vipers'' from the same authors,<ref>{{Cite book |url=http://titanbooks.com/arrow-a-generation-of-vipers-7926/ |title=Arrow: A Generation of Vipers |last=Griffith |first=Susan |last2=Griffith |first2=Clay |date=March 28, 2017 |publisher=Titan Books |isbn=978-1-78329-485-5 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171004034924/https://titanbooks.com/arrow-a-generation-of-vipers-7926/ |archive-date=October 4, 2017 |dead-url=no }}</ref> as well as ''Arrow Fatal Legacies'', co-authored by Marc Guggenheim and James R. Tuck, published in January 2018. This novel bridged the gap between the season five finale and the season six premiere of ''[[Arrow (TV series)|Arrow]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.bleedingcool.com/2017/08/12/marc-guggenheim-arrow-novel/ |title=Marc Guggenheim To Write Novel Connecting Arrow Seasons 5 and 6 |last=Wickline |first=Dan |date=August 12, 2017 |website=[[Bleeding Cool]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201050310/https://www.bleedingcool.com/2017/08/12/marc-guggenheim-arrow-novel/ |archive-date=December 1, 2017 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 25, 2018 }}</ref>


=== Video games ===
=== Video games ===
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== Other versions ==
== Other versions ==
While Diggle was originally created for ''Arrow'', a character of the same name was introduced into the Green Arrow comics during the [[The New 52]] run, in 2013.<ref name="way of life" /> Looking at any elements of the show which would transfer to the comic-run, writer [[Jeff Lemire]] described the character of Diggle as "the [[List of breakout characters|breakout]] of that show", and wanted to incorporate elements of that into his story.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/10/03/arrow-john-diggle-makes-his-comic-book-debut |title=Arrow: John Diggle Makes His Comic Book Debut |last=Schedeen |first=Jesse |date=October 3, 2013 |website=[[IGN]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150506231738/http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/10/03/arrow-john-diggle-makes-his-comic-book-debut |archive-date=May 6, 2015 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 16, 2018}}</ref> When DC rebooted its continuity with [[DC Rebirth|Rebirth]] in 2016, Diggle continued to feature in the Green Arrow comics.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.cbr.com/green-arrow-reintroduces-spoilers-to-olivers-world-but-as-friend-or-foe/ |title="Green Arrow" Reintroduces [Spoilers] to Oliver's World&nbsp;– But As Friend or Foe? |last=Jasper |first=Marykate |date=July 8, 2016 |website=[[Comic Book Resources]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180625114556/https://www.cbr.com/green-arrow-reintroduces-spoilers-to-olivers-world-but-as-friend-or-foe/ |archive-date=June 25, 2018 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 25, 2018 |df=mdy-all}}</ref>
While Diggle was originally created for ''Arrow'', a character of the same name was introduced into the Green Arrow comics during the [[The New 52]] run, in 2013.<ref name="way of life" /> Looking at any elements of the show which would transfer to the comic-run, writer [[Jeff Lemire]] described the character of Diggle as "the [[List of breakout characters|breakout]] of that show", and wanted to incorporate elements of that into his story.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/10/03/arrow-john-diggle-makes-his-comic-book-debut |title=Arrow: John Diggle Makes His Comic Book Debut |last=Schedeen |first=Jesse |date=October 3, 2013 |website=[[IGN]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150506231738/http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/10/03/arrow-john-diggle-makes-his-comic-book-debut |archive-date=May 6, 2015 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 16, 2018}}</ref> When DC rebooted its continuity with [[DC Rebirth|Rebirth]] in 2016, Diggle continued to feature in the Green Arrow comics.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.cbr.com/green-arrow-reintroduces-spoilers-to-olivers-world-but-as-friend-or-foe/ |title="Green Arrow" Reintroduces [Spoilers] to Oliver's World&nbsp;– But As Friend or Foe? |last=Jasper |first=Marykate |date=July 8, 2016 |website=[[Comic Book Resources]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180625114556/https://www.cbr.com/green-arrow-reintroduces-spoilers-to-olivers-world-but-as-friend-or-foe/ |archive-date=June 25, 2018 |dead-url=no |access-date=June 25, 2018 }}</ref>


== References ==
== References ==

Revision as of 16:42, 27 June 2018

John Diggle
Arrowverse character
First appearanceArrow:
"Pilot" (1.01)
October 10, 2012
Created by
Portrayed byDavid Ramsey
Years2012–present
In-universe information
Alias
FamilyAndy Diggle (brother)
Carly Diggle (sister-in-law)
Andrew Diggle, Jr. (nephew)
SpouseLyla Michaels
ChildrenSara Diggle (pre-Flashpoint)
John Diggle Jr. (post-Flashpoint)
Affiliations
Abilities
  • Expert marksman
  • Skilled tactician
  • Peak human physical condition
Sidearm
  • Hand gun
  • Crossbow

John Thomas Diggle, also known as Spartan, is a fictional character created originally by Greg Berlanti, Marc Guggenheim, and Andrew Kreisberg for the CW television series Arrow, based on the DC Comics character Green Arrow. He is portrayed by actor David Ramsey. The character debuts in the pilot episode as a military veteran and Oliver Queen's new bodyguard. He later becomes Oliver's best friend and confidante in his crusade as the Green Arrow.

The character also appears in the Lego Batman 3: Beyond Gotham video game, as well as Arrow's tie-in novels, digital comics, and spin-offs. Ramsey reprises his role in the Arrow spin-off series The Flash and Legends of Tomorrow. While originally created for Arrow, a character of the same name has been incorporated into the Green Arrow comics published by DC since 2013.

Storylines

Arrow

Season 1

Further information: Arrow (season 1)

John Diggle is introduced as a former United States Army Special Forces soldier, honorably discharged with the rank of master sergeant. He is hired as the bodyguard of billionaire Oliver Queen,[1] and later becomes his confidant in his mission to save Starling City.[2] Diggle tries to help Oliver balance his normal life and vigilante life, and occasionally helps him in the field. Diggle provides Oliver with medical assistance, limiting his need for hospital treatment. Already a skilled fighter, Diggle receives additional training from Oliver. Diggle has a grudge against Floyd Lawton / Deadshot who killed his brother, Andy.[3] John dates his brother's widow, Carly, and is a father figure to her son, A.J., during this season.

Season 2

Further information: Arrow (season 2)

Diggle and Felicity Smoak continue to help Oliver with his crusade and John continues to be Oliver's adviser and field partner, along with Sara Lance and Roy Harper. Diggle has a relationship with his ex-wife Lyla Michaels,[4] is an unofficial member of A.R.G.U.S., and is a member of the Suicide Squad under the codename "Freelancer".[5] He also develops an uneasy alliance with Amanda Waller who occasionally asks him for field assistance with A.R.G.U.S. missions. It is revealed that Lyla is pregnant with Diggle's child.[6]

Season 3

Diggle continues to help Oliver and his team, but has to devote more of his time to his new baby with Lyla, whom he names Sara after Sara Lance is killed. After Lyla is seriously injured in an attack, they decide to remarry. When Oliver is presumed dead at Ra's al Ghul's hands, Diggle leads Felicity, Roy, and Laurel Lance until his friend's return. After Oliver's return, Diggle accompanies him to Nanda Parbat to help him free Malcolm Merlyn, but the two are captured. Diggle and Lyla marry after a near-death experience with the Suicide Squad, when Lawton sacrifices himself for them.[7] Diggle and Lyla decide to quit Team Arrow and A.R.G.U.S. for their daughter's sake. After Oliver leaves the team to join the League of Assassins as part of a deal to revive a deceased Thea Queen, Diggle becomes the team leader, though he is not yet ready to forgive Oliver for kidnapping Lyla as part of a deception to gain acceptance by the League.

Season 4

Diggle, now going by the codename "Spartan",[8] discovers that the organization that targets the newly-named Star City is H.I.V.E., who had hired Lawton to murder Andy. Diggle eventually forgives Oliver after their fight with a H.I.V.E. metahuman operative named Jeremy Tell. With Quentin Lance's help, Diggle learns that Damien Darhk had Andy murdered, and that he was a drug cartel leader and Darhk's territorial rival prior to his death. However, Diggle discovers that Darhk actually faked Andy's death and recruited him as a H.I.V.E. soldier, leading Diggle and his brother to become enemies. Guilt-ridden over his brother's role in causing Laurel's death, Diggle seeks revenge against Andy and Darhk. Diggle kills Andy after the latter nearly causes Lyla and Sara to be killed.[9] He initially lies to Lyla, saying that he killed Andy in self-defense, but Oliver encourages Diggle to admit the truth to his wife. Diggle rejoins the US Army after confiding to his wife and Darhk's defeat.[10]

Season 5

Diggle is betrayed by his commanding officer, J. G. Walker, following a failed attempt to sell nuclear weapons.[11] Framed for Walker's crimes, Diggle is arrested.[12] Oliver and Lyla break him out of state prison, and Diggle stays at H.I.V.E.'s former base until his innocence can be proven.[13] Diggle remains guilty about killing Andy and continues to serve as Spartan to redeem himself. Due to the events of The Flash episode "Flashpoint", Diggle's family history is altered: his daughter Sara has been erased from existence and replaced by John "J.J." Diggle, Jr., as a result of a timeline change caused by Eobard Thawne, correcting the Flashpoint reality created by Barry. Diggle eventually learns of the alteration of his life, his daughter's erasure and his son's status as a time aberration, and despite the hurt caused by these circumstances, he chooses to forgive Barry. Lyla, however, distrusts Barry for this. Felicity is able to prove John's innocence by restoring the digital files that Walker had destroyed. However, Andy's betrayal and death at Diggle's hands has taken a toll on him; he struggles to control his rage and occasionally pulverizes criminals to vent it, fueling Oliver's concern over his erratic behavior. Diggle later befriends Oliver's chosen successor to Laurel's mantle, Dinah Drake, a Central City detective, and encourages her to set down roots in Star City. Diggle, along with the rest of Team Arrow, is later captured by Adrian Chase and taken to the island Lian Yu.[14] Chase later detonates the explosive-rigged Lian Yu by shooting himself dead, with Diggle still on the island.[15]

Season 6

Diggle is revealed to have survived the explosion by taking shelter in a plane like the others.[16] However, he was wounded by bomb shrapnel and suffers a degenerative nerve injury that affects his motor control that requires taking daily medications, resulting him to develop a drug dependency.[17] When Oliver decides to retire from being the Green Arrow, he appoints Diggle as his successor, oblivious that Diggle is currently not in condition to remain in action.[18] Oliver returns to vigilantism until Diggle is fully recovered from his injury. Curtis Holt develops an implant for Diggle to help him control his tremors as he progressively recovers. After Oliver decides to remain being the Green Arrow, Diggle accepts the job offer from Lyla as one of the commanding officers in A.R.G.U.S., using his new position to lead his subordinates to maintain order in the city's police's place due to they have been compromised by crime lord Ricardo Diaz. Near the end of the season, Diggle is fully healed and no longer needing Holt's implant. His A.R.G.U.S. team later joins forces with FBI agent Samandra Watson's subordinates, and working with Team Arrow, they ultimately take back the city from Diaz.[19]

The Flash

  • Invasion! - 308
  • Legends of Today – 208
  • Flash vs. Arrow – 108

In season 2, when the metahuman King Shark escapes from his A.R.G.U.S. prison and arrives at Central City to kill Barry, Diggle and Lyla arrive to warn the latter. After King Shark is defeated by the combined efforts of Team Flash, Diggle and Lyla, he is taken back to A.R.G.U.S.[20] In season 4, Clifford DeVoe infiltrates the A.R.G.U.S. facility holding the metahuman Fallout by impersonating Diggle and kills most of the security; overcharging and killing Fallout to be a nuclear battery for his satellites. Afterwards, Barry brings Diggle to S.T.A.R. Labs to reveal the location of the facility.[21]

Legends of Tomorrow

In season 2, Diggle aids Team Arrow, Team Flash and the Legends in their fight against the alien race of Dominators, who leave Earth after being defeated.[22] In season 3, Diggle, who is an ordained minister, officiates Barry Allen and Iris West's wedding, simultaneously marrying Oliver and Felicity as well.[23]

Development

In February 2012, David Ramsey was cast in the pilot episode of Arrow as John Diggle, a "former military man now working as a bodyguard for hire who soon finds he is trapped in a battle of wits, loyalty and trust".[24] The character was created by Arrow creators Greg Berlanti, Marc Guggenheim and Andrew Kreisberg.[25] Named after comic book writer Andy Diggle, and created specifically for the series, Guggenheim said Diggle was designed to be Oliver's equal in "many respects" such as their abilities and intelligence. He further explained that Diggle's mutual abilities were a means of setting him up early in the series as a confidant for Oliver's vigilante persona.[26] Ramsey enjoyed the fact that he did not have to worry about matching the comic books, saying, it allowed him to "just kind of take [his character], and run with it".[27] He compared Diggle to Alfred Pennyworth from the Batman comics, calling the character Oliver's "moral voice". Ramsey, who has trained in various martial arts such as Wing Chun, Jeet Kune Do, and kickboxing, used his martial arts expertise to make Diggle believable, saying, "I think, honestly, it has to do with...having Diggle able to not just handle himself on screen but be able to really proficiently use the (martial) arts — and look like he is a trained soldier. You don't see the stunt guy. You actually see David Ramsey doing it."[28] He has stated that since Diggle is older than most of Team Arrow and, to an extent, more experienced on the field and reconnaissance fighting, the other members "look to him for some leadership".[29] A running gag is that Diggle, whenever taken suddenly to places by Barry Allen at super-speed, vomits as a result of motion sickness.[30]

Relationships

Costumes

For the first three seasons of Arrow, Diggle does not have a vigilante costume.[31] By the time season 4 begins, he has gained one, which consists of a helmet and black gear.[32] Via social media, the helmet was criticised by fans for its resemblance to that worn by the Marvel Comics character Magneto. In response to the criticism, Ramsey said, "I know there's a lot of criticism that it looks like the Magneto helmet. But by the time you see Diggle in action – we also get into what the helmet can do – you won't be thinking of the X-Men at all."[33] In season 5, Diggle replaces his helmet with a new one, which Ramsey said can do "extraordinary things", apart from being just about concealment.[34] Concept artist Andy Poon said the new helmet offers Diggle "full protection". He added that, since Diggle's codename is Spartan, he decided to make the helmet resemble "an actual spartan helmet design". Poon, a comic book fan himself, thought the new helmet would fix "the issues regarding some of the fan feedback about [the older helmet] looking similar to other comic book characters".[35] Early in season 6, when Diggle takes up the Green Arrow mantle at Oliver's request, he wields a crossbow named "Green Monster" that was created by Felicity and Curtis and fires arrows.[36][37] Later in the season, Diggle gains both a new Spartan costume and helmet, which eschew the gray overtones of previous Spartan costumes, and instead have a black and red scheme.[31]

Reception

Writing for the DC Comics website, Ashley V. Robinson named Diggle as one of her "all-time favorite characters".[30] Jesse Schedeen of IGN praised Ramsey's performance in the episode "Brothers in Arms", calling it "easily Ramsey’s strongest episode in a long time".[38]

In other media

Print media

The character appeared in Arrow 2.5, a bi-weekly digital comic series that bridged the gap between the end of season two and the start of season three.[39]

He also features in the tie-in novels published for the series, Arrow: Vengeance, written by Oscar Balderrama and Lauren Certo,[40] The Flash: The Haunting of Barry Allen written by Susan and Clay Griffith,[41] and its sequel Arrow: A Generation of Vipers from the same authors,[42] as well as Arrow Fatal Legacies, co-authored by Marc Guggenheim and James R. Tuck, published in January 2018. This novel bridged the gap between the season five finale and the season six premiere of Arrow.[43]

Video games

The character appears in the Lego Batman 3: Beyond Gotham video game as part of the Arrow DLC pack.[44]

Other versions

While Diggle was originally created for Arrow, a character of the same name was introduced into the Green Arrow comics during the The New 52 run, in 2013.[28] Looking at any elements of the show which would transfer to the comic-run, writer Jeff Lemire described the character of Diggle as "the breakout of that show", and wanted to incorporate elements of that into his story.[45] When DC rebooted its continuity with Rebirth in 2016, Diggle continued to feature in the Green Arrow comics.[46]

References

  1. ^ Andrew Kreisberg & Marc Guggenheim (writers) & David Nutter (director) (October 10, 2012). "Pilot". Arrow. Season 1. Episode 1. The CW.
  2. ^ Moira Kirland & Lana Cho (writers) & Vince Misiano (director) (October 31, 2012). "An Innocent Man". Arrow. Season 1. Episode 4. The CW.
  3. ^ Marc Guggenheim & Andrew Kreisberg (writers) & Guy Bee (director) (October 24, 2012). "Lone Gunmen". Arrow. Season 1. Episode 3. The CW.
  4. ^ Ben Sokolowski & Beth Schwartz (writers) & Guy Bee (director) (November 13, 2013). "Keep Your Enemies Closer". Arrow. Season 2. Episode 6. The CW.
  5. ^ Keto Shimizu & Bryan Q. Miller (writers) & Larry Teng (director) (March 19, 2014). "Suicide Squad". Arrow. Season 2. Episode 16. The CW.
  6. ^ Marc Guggenheim & Andrew Kreisberg (writers) & John Behring (director) (May 14, 2014). "Unthinkable". Arrow. Season 2. Episode 23. The CW.
  7. ^ "Suicidal Tendencies". Arrow. Season 3. Episode 17. March 25, 2015. The CW.
  8. ^ Guggenheim, Marc [@mguggenheim] (November 12, 2015). "Smoak & Arrow: Hey is "Spartan" officially Diggle's codename now? / Marc Guggenheim: Yes" (Tweet). Archived from the original on June 26, 2018. Retrieved June 26, 2018 – via Twitter.
  9. ^ "Genesis". Arrow. Season 4. Episode 20. May 4, 2016. The CW.
  10. ^ "Schism". Arrow. Season 4. Episode 23. May 25, 2016. The CW.
  11. ^ "The Recruits". Arrow. Season 5. Episode 2. October 12, 2016. The CW.
  12. ^ "A Matter of Trust". Arrow. Season 5. Episode 3. October 19, 2016. The CW.
  13. ^ "Penance". Arrow. Season 5. Episode 4. October 26, 2016. The CW.
  14. ^ "Missing". Arrow. Season 5. Episode 22. May 17, 2017. The CW.
  15. ^ "Lian Yu". Arrow. Season 5. Episode 23. May 24, 2017. The CW.
  16. ^ "Fallout". Arrow. Season 6. Episode 1. October 12, 2017. The CW.
  17. ^ Damore, Meagan (October 27, 2017). "Arrow reveals dark secret about Dig's Green Arrow". Comic Book Resources. Archived from the original on June 19, 2018. Retrieved June 16, 2018. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  18. ^ Mitovich, Matt Webb (October 26, 2017). "Arrow Recap: New to the Hood — Plus: What Did Oliver Give Felicity?". TVLine. Archived from the original on February 20, 2018. Retrieved June 16, 2018. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  19. ^ "Life Sentence". Arrow. Season 5. Episode 23. May 17, 2018. The CW.
  20. ^ "King Shark". The Flash. Season 2. Episode 15. February 23, 2016. The CW.
  21. ^ "Think Fast". The Flash. Season 4. Episode 22. May 15, 2018. The CW.
  22. ^ "Invasion!". Legends of Tomorrow. Season 2. Episode 7. December 1, 2016. The CW.
  23. ^ MacDonald, Lindsay (November 28, 2017). "Wedding Bells Were Ringing in the Arrowverse Crossover Finale". TV Guide. Archived from the original on February 22, 2018. Retrieved June 16, 2018. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |dead-url= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  24. ^ Levine, Stuart (February 9, 2012). "Ramsey cast in CW's 'Arrow' pilot". Variety. Archived from the original on July 17, 2014. Retrieved June 16, 2018. {{cite news}}: Unknown parameter |dead-url= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  25. ^ Parrish, Robin (February 7, 2015). "Is Arrow's John Diggle Really John Stewart, A.K.A. The Green Lantern?". Tech Times. Archived from the original on March 5, 2016. Retrieved June 22, 2018. {{cite news}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  26. ^ Byrne, Craig (July 19, 2012). "Interview: Marc Guggenheim Unlocks The Secrets & Connections In Arrow". Green Arrow TV. Archived from the original on June 19, 2018. Retrieved June 16, 2018. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |dead-url= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  27. ^ Betancourt, David (October 9, 2013). "The new synergy between CW's 'Arrow,' DC's Green Arrow". The Washington Post. Archived from the original on June 19, 2018. Retrieved June 6, 2018. {{cite news}}: Unknown parameter |dead-url= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  28. ^ a b Sheridan, Brian R. (August 6, 2015). "For 'Arrow' Star David Ramsey, martial arts is a way of life". Medium. Archived from the original on June 16, 2018. Retrieved June 16, 2018. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |dead-url= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  29. ^ Huver, Scott (January 16, 2015). ""Arrow's" David Ramsey Talks Oliver's Absence, Masking Diggle". Comic Book Resources. Archived from the original on June 22, 2018. Retrieved June 22, 2018. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |dead-url= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  30. ^ a b Robinson, Ashley V. (May 15, 2018). "The Flash: Diggle Drops In". DC Comics. Archived from the original on June 22, 2018. Retrieved June 22, 2018. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |dead-url= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  31. ^ a b Damore, Meagan (January 25, 2018). "Arrow: Diggle Debuts New Spartan Costume". Comic Book Resources. Archived from the original on February 24, 2018. Retrieved June 19, 2018. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |dead-url= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  32. ^ Harp, Justin (September 3, 2015). "Arrow season 4: See Diggle's super-suit". Digital Spy. Archived from the original on October 28, 2017. Retrieved June 19, 2018. {{cite news}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  33. ^ Marston, George (September 28, 2015). "Arrow's Diggle Actor Responds To Costume Criticism". Newsarama. Archived from the original on January 8, 2016. Retrieved June 19, 2018. {{cite news}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  34. ^ Jacobs, Meredith (August 5, 2016). "'Arrow' Interview: David Ramsey Teases Diggle's New Helmet Is More Than Just Concealment". BuddyTV. Archived from the original on August 5, 2016. Retrieved June 19, 2018. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  35. ^ Gallaway, Lauren (November 4, 2016). "EXCLUSIVE: Arrow Concept Artist Andy Poon on Diggle's New Spartan Helmet". Comic Book Resources. Archived from the original on November 7, 2016. Retrieved June 25, 2018. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |dead-url= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  36. ^ Mitovich, Matt Webb (October 27, 2017). "Arrow Recap: New to the Hood — Plus: What Did Oliver Give Felicity?". TVLine. Archived from the original on February 20, 2018. Retrieved June 22, 2018. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |deadurl= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  37. ^ Francisco, Eric (October 27, 2017). "Another Batman Easter Egg Wasn't Even the Biggest Reveal on 'Arrow'". Inverse. Archived from the original on December 27, 2017. Retrieved June 22, 2018. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |dead-url= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  38. ^ Schedeen, Jesse (April 6, 2018). "Arrow: "Brothers in Arms" Review". IGN. Retrieved June 27, 2018.
  39. ^ Sands, Rich (July 9, 2014). "Exclusive: DC Entertainment Launches New Arrow and The Flash Digital Comics". TV Guide. Archived from the original on July 12, 2014. Retrieved June 25, 2018. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |dead-url= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  40. ^ Balderrama, Oscar; Certo, Lauren (February 23, 2016). Arrow:Vengeance. Titan Books. ISBN 978-1-78329-484-8. Archived from the original on September 7, 2015. {{cite book}}: Unknown parameter |dead-url= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  41. ^ Griffith, Susan; Griffith, Clay (November 29, 2016). The Flash:The Haunting of Barry Allen. Titan Books. ISBN 978-1-78565-141-0. Archived from the original on February 6, 2017. {{cite book}}: Unknown parameter |dead-url= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  42. ^ Griffith, Susan; Griffith, Clay (March 28, 2017). Arrow: A Generation of Vipers. Titan Books. ISBN 978-1-78329-485-5. Archived from the original on October 4, 2017. {{cite book}}: Unknown parameter |dead-url= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  43. ^ Wickline, Dan (August 12, 2017). "Marc Guggenheim To Write Novel Connecting Arrow Seasons 5 and 6". Bleeding Cool. Archived from the original on December 1, 2017. Retrieved June 25, 2018. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |dead-url= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  44. ^ Beedle, Tim (October 13, 2014). "Fit for a Queen: The LEGO Batman 3: Beyond Gotham Arrow DLC". DC Comics. Archived from the original on July 22, 2017. Retrieved June 19, 2018. {{cite news}}: Unknown parameter |dead-url= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  45. ^ Schedeen, Jesse (October 3, 2013). "Arrow: John Diggle Makes His Comic Book Debut". IGN. Archived from the original on May 6, 2015. Retrieved June 16, 2018. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |dead-url= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
  46. ^ Jasper, Marykate (July 8, 2016). ""Green Arrow" Reintroduces [Spoilers] to Oliver's World – But As Friend or Foe?". Comic Book Resources. Archived from the original on June 25, 2018. Retrieved June 25, 2018. {{cite web}}: Unknown parameter |dead-url= ignored (|url-status= suggested) (help)
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