“Glee” begins its fifth season with a Beatles tribute episode Thursday, but for many “Glee” fans, focusing on anything other than October 10 is difficult.
Of course, focusing on October 10 comes with its own immense set of difficulties, because that night will play host to the show’s tribute to Cory Monteith. Monteith, who died of an accidental drug and alcohol toxicity this summer, played the key role of Finn Hudson on “Glee” and an even bigger role as a fan favorite.
Various spoilers, song listings and reports have emerged regarding the episode, but the reality is that none will have much impact. More about the emotion than the specific screenplay or soundtrack, the Monteith tribute is fueling intense, bittersweet anticipation for “Gleeks.” On the one hand, it allows fans to join the cast in saying goodbye to the actor. On the other hand, it forces fans and the cast to say goodbye to someone who was only 31 years old.
Light on publicity material even for the season’s first two episodes, FOX has officially released no images or videos for the Monteith tribute, which airs as the season’s third segment. “Glee” creator Ryan Murphy, however, posted a promo banner for the episode. It features the tagline “The Hardest Word to Say is ‘Goodbye.'”