I think that if Eko’s actor didn’t leave the show, then he would’ve been the best candidate for Jacob.
He is honestly the perfect embodiment of Jacob’s beliefs, and lives as a contradiction to the Man in Black’s. M.I.B believed it was human nature to sin, but Eko tells him that it’s not. That he has not sinned, he only did what was necessary to survive. Similarly to Jacob, he believes a man is more than his actions - more than his “sins.” He knows what is necessary, and is not afraid of it.
He was one of the few people on the island who could recognize that in themselves, and it upset the Man in Black.
And unlike Locke, he did not need a miracle to believe in the island. His faith was natural, and unshakable. He was not someone who could be manipulated using his faith, like the Man in Black did with John. He knew what he believed in, and more importantly, he knew what was true.
His faith was never circumstantial, and it never wavered unlike Jack or Locke. Which I personally think would make for a perfect protector for the island.
Where Jack doubts, Eko wouldn’t. Where Jacob refuses to step in, Eko would. And where the mother lowkey gate-keeps the island, Eko probably also wouldn’t.
Mr. Eko for island protector 2026
