Resident Alien: Why Grey Aliens Lack the Essential Powers Found in Other Extraterrestrials

In the intriguing universe of *Resident Alien*, Alan Tudyk’s character, Harry Vanderspeigle, navigates a complex and often tumultuous relationship with the Grey aliens, a dynamic steeped in a long history of conflict. Given the vastness of the galaxy, it’s not unexpected that such tensions exist among various spacefaring species. However, it is quite surprising that almost every alien race depicted in the series possesses the ability to shapeshift—except for the Greys.

The Unique Limitation of the Greys

The Unyielding Form of the Greys

While some characters can perceive Harry’s true alien visage, his transformation into human form typically conceals his real identity. Similar abilities are observed in characters like Heather, portrayed by Edi Patterson, and the season four antagonist, the Mantid. The only alien whose metamorphic capabilities remain unverified is the unnamed blue figure devoured by the Mantid in the season three finale. However, the Greys firmly stand out due to their inability to shapeshift; they would likely have exploited this skill if it were part of their repertoire.

Instead of adapting physically to blend in with humans, the Greys have opted for a different approach: the creation of Grey-human hybrids. These hybrids closely resemble ordinary humans, often enhanced with striking features. This strategy serves a dual purpose, enabling the Greys not only to surveil humanity but also to seek eventual domination of Earth. Their ultimate ambition involves transforming Earth’s atmosphere, which currently cannot sustain pure Grey life. This alternative method, while ingeniously devised, reflects a more convoluted plan than the straightforwardness of shapeshifting.

The Reasoning Behind the Greys’ Inability to Shapeshift

Staying True to Folklore in Resident Alien

A group of Grey Aliens standing at the end of a hallway in Resident Alien

Interestingly, despite their portrayal in a sci-fi dramedy, the Greys are based on verifiable accounts from individuals who claim to have encountered extraterrestrials. These witnesses typically describe the beings in a remarkably uniform manner, which has cemented a particular depiction in popular culture. In *Resident Alien*, the Greys embody this traditional imagery, reflecting decades of folklore where the concept of shapeshifting is typically absent from their known traits. Thus, the creators of the show have opted to maintain this fidelity to established mythology by allowing the Greys to retain their original form.

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