'Hannibal' Season 3: forgiveness and friendship between Will and Lecter is focus; Graham not featured in premiere episode

(NBC/TVLine)Cast of season 3 of "Hannibal".

Grotesque, spine-tingling and deliciously macabre, "Hannibal" is set to premiere in the first week of June, after more than a year's wait from season two's suspense-driven finale. Many Fannibals are wondering about the fate of their favorite characters, and what the plot season three would revolve around.

Digital Spy reports that the upcoming installment will focus on the twisted friendship between Will and Hannibal, and the idea of forgiveness. Fans of the series know that the duo's friendship frequently borders on platonic love. Creator Bryan Fuller has teased that viewers will be treated to a touching emotional scene when Will and Hannibal are reunited. Needless to say, following the events of season two, Graham will engage in a cat-and-mouse chase across Italy to locate the cannibal. Once they do reunite, fans can look forward to an intense scene, just like two lovers meeting after a long period of separation.

However, some viewers may be disappointed to know that Graham isn't even featured in the season's premiere episode. Entertainment Weekly reports that the first episode focuses on the relationship between Hannibal and Bedelia across four different periods of time. Their relationship will be explored in-depth, providing viewers a rare glimpse into Lecter's mysterious relationship with his psychiatrist.

Just like its previous season, "Hannibal" is divided into two parts, with seven episodes showcased before a brief hiatus. After that, eight episodes will air with the plot following the original novel, "Red Dragon" by Thomas Harris. Episode eight will see Hannibal locked up and helping Graham capture a notorious killer named The Tooth Fairy, which is named so because he bites his victims. The second half will see Graham's journey to capture Francis Dolarhyde aka Tooth Fairy with Hannibal's help. Will's wife will also be seen as a time-jump takes place in episode eight. Dr. Chilton will defy death and play a crucial role in Lecter's capture.

"Hannibal" premieres on June 4 at 10 p.m. ET on NBC.

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