Desmond Hume

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

Desmond is named after David Hume, a Scottish philosopher who discussed free will and determinism. These ideas are reflected in Desmond's time travel, where he meets Mrs. Hawking, who explains that the universe has a specific way things must take place: anywhere things go off course, the universe corrects itself.

In Their Own Story

Cusick was originally hired for only three episodes at the beginning of season two but returned in the finale to become a regular cast member from the third season. In the episode "The Constant," Desmond appears with short hair and no facial hair in 1996, while having long, untamed hair and a full beard in 2004. All freighter scenes were shot before Cusick shaved most of his beard for the 1996 scenes; he then used a fake beard for "Ji Yeon" and "Meet Kevin Johnson" while his beard grew back.

Reader's Guide

Desmond is often distinguished by his cheery attitude and his habit of referring to people as "Brother." In 2006, Cusick was the only Lost actor nominated for an Emmy, losing Outstanding Guest Actor to Christian Clemenson. Critics praised Desmond's flashbacks in season two and his performance in "The Constant," with Gary Susman calling his storyline the most emotionally satisfying character arc of season 4. Verne Gay of Newsday described the phone call between Desmond and Penny as having not one false note, while Jay Glatfelter called it the best love story on television.

Did You Know?

• Desmond was voted the best character in a tournament hosted by The Washington Post with over 6,000 voters.
• Henry Ian Cusick originally signed on for only three episodes at the start of season two.
• Cusick did not cut his hair for the 2004 scenes; talented hair and makeup folks hid it while he shaved for the 1996 timeline.
• The character's name is a tribute to the empiricist philosopher David Hume.