Wayward Pines' most sadistic sheriff has a back story viewers aren't privy too.

'Wayward Pines' Fox: 'Big Moment' For Episode 9; 'A Reckoning' Takes On First Generation

Little is known about the recently deceased Sheriff Pope (Terrence Howard), but his origins will come to light during "Choices." However, Blake Crouch's novels put a very different spin on the lawman's life, even pushing Pope's death back by several episodes.

If viewers are wondering why Pilcher (Toby Jones) allowed such a power-mad despot control humanity's last chance at survival, this answer from showrunner Chad Hodge may clear matters up.

'Wayward Pines' Fox: How Was Ethan & Family Selected For Pines? Chad Hodge Explains

"[In the books] when Pilcher comes out to find Ethan in the wilderness, as in Episode 5, Pope is with him," Hodge revealed to TV Line. "He's not dead yet. Then when they have to rush back onto the helicopter in order to avoid the Abbies, Pilcher purposely leaves Pope out there with the Abbies. He wanted him to die."

Looks like that sheriff spot was primed and waiting for Ethan Burke (Matt Dillon) no matter what.

Prepare to delve deeper in to the mystery of how and why Wayward Pines' residents are culled from the present day in episodes 6 and 7, "Choices" and "Betrayal." Pope will make an appearance in both.

Find out more Wayward Pines airs Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET on Fox. Click the video below to see a preview for the series' next episode.

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