The Running Man
by Stephen King
Contents
…Minus 018 and COUNTING… A half-hour later Holloway came on t
Overview
The Games Federation intervenes directly by arranging a special broadcast to Richards aboard the hijacked plane. Richards, wounded and emotionally shaken, hesitates because the Free-Vee recalls the poverty, media control, and family suffering that pushed Richards into the contest.
When Richards finally turns the screen on, Dan Killian appears and addresses Richards in real time. The confrontation shifts the standoff from military pursuit to a direct psychological and strategic exchange between Richards and the Network’s central power.
Summary
About half an hour after Richards orders Holloway west, Holloway reports over the voice-com that Harding Red has relayed a request from the Games Federation. They want to beam a high-intensity broadcast to the plane and say Richards will find it worth his while to turn on the Free-Vee.
Richards almost activates the screen, then pulls back as dread and déjà vu overtake him. The request reminds Richards of the beginning: Sheila, their poverty, the constant game shows, and Cathy’s suffering. Richards understands that there can be no return to that life, and his pain and blood loss make him doubt whether Richards will be strong enough to keep the bluff going.
McCone suggests the broadcast may contain an offer, but Richards silences McCone. After waiting through the fear, Richards turns on the Free-Vee. The screen shows Dan Killian at the Games Federation desk, and Killian responds directly when Richards greets him, making the broadcast immediately personal.
Who Appears
- Ben RichardsWounded fugitive contestant who hesitates, remembers his family, then faces Killian’s broadcast.
- Dan KillianGames Federation executive who appears on the Free-Vee to address Richards directly.
- HollowayPilot who informs Richards that the Games Federation wants to broadcast to the plane.
- McConeHostage who suggests the broadcast may contain a deal for Richards.