Introducing Prison Break and C-Note
*Prison Break*, the high-octane drama series that captivated audiences with its intricate plot, daring escapes, and compelling characters, remains a cultural touchstone years after its initial run. Among the memorable figures within its sprawling cast is Benjamin Miles Franklin, better known as C-Note. C-Note’s journey from hardened war veteran to desperate fugitive, and ultimately, redeemed family man, resonated deeply with viewers. A crucial element of his character arc was his unwavering devotion to his daughter, Dede Franklin. But who played Dede Franklin on *Prison Break*, and how did their portrayal shape C-Note’s story? This article delves into the details of the actresses who embodied this pivotal character, exploring their contributions to the show and what they’ve been up to since.
Introducing Dede Franklin
Dede Franklin wasn’t just a name dropped in passing; she was the heart and soul of C-Note’s motivations. Introduced early in the series, Dede is portrayed as a sweet and innocent young girl struggling with a serious kidney ailment. This health issue, requiring expensive dialysis treatments, becomes the driving force behind C-Note’s initial criminal activity and his desperate need to provide for his family.
Her relationship with her father, as well as with her mother, Kacee Franklin, is depicted as loving and supportive, albeit strained by the circumstances. The audience understands that C-Note’s every action, from his involvement in the Fox River escape to his fraught dealings with the FBI, stems from his deep love and concern for Dede’s well-being. Dede’s illness adds a layer of vulnerability and urgency to C-Note’s character, making him more relatable and sympathetic, despite his flaws. Her presence, even when off-screen, permeates C-Note’s decisions and influences the direction of the narrative. She is more than just a daughter; she is his moral compass and the reason he strives for redemption.
The Actresses Who Played Dede
The role of Dede Franklin was portrayed by different actresses throughout the series, reflecting the character’s age progression and the logistical needs of production. Here’s a closer look at each of them:
Season One
The first actress to portray Dede Franklin was Cheyenne Hill. While Cheyenne appeared in only a few episodes of the show’s inaugural season, her performance established the foundational elements of Dede’s character, particularly her innocence and vulnerability. Cheyenne’s scenes often involved interactions with her mother, Kacee, highlighting the emotional toll of Dede’s illness on the entire family. While information regarding Cheyenne’s later acting career is limited, her early work on *Prison Break* remains a notable credit in her filmography. Her brief portrayal of Dede left a lasting impression, setting the stage for the character’s continued importance in C-Note’s storyline. Her early scenes helped viewers understand why C-Note felt so much urgency to escape.
Seasons Two and Beyond
As the series progressed, the role of Dede Franklin was taken over by Chelsea Cardwell. Chelsea Cardwell assumed the role during season two and remained the primary actress for the character in subsequent seasons, including the revival. Chelsea’s portrayal of Dede offered a more mature and developed perspective as the character aged. Her performance showcased Dede’s growing awareness of her father’s struggles and the sacrifices he made for her. Cardwell’s scenes often involved phone calls with C-Note or brief encounters when he managed to reconnect with his family. These interactions served to underscore the emotional bond between father and daughter, even amidst the chaos and danger surrounding them. Cardwell brought a nuanced sensitivity to the role, making Dede a relatable and sympathetic figure who longed for a normal life despite the extraordinary circumstances. The recast to Chelsea Cardwell was necessary as the character became older in later seasons.
Where Are They Now?
Cheyenne Hill’s professional acting career information following her role in *Prison Break* is difficult to find publicly. This doesn’t diminish the importance of her role in setting the stage for the character.
Chelsea Cardwell, following her role as Dede Franklin on *Prison Break*, continued to pursue acting. Finding detailed information about her later projects can be challenging, but her presence on *Prison Break* remains a significant credit.
It’s important to remember that not all actors continue to work in the industry consistently. Some pursue other passions, focus on education, or simply choose a different path. Whatever their current endeavors, both Cheyenne Hill and Chelsea Cardwell contributed to the memorable character of Dede Franklin on *Prison Break*.
Dede’s Significance to C-Note’s Character
Dede Franklin was far more than just a plot device; she was the linchpin of C-Note’s character development. His entire journey throughout *Prison Break* is inextricably linked to his desire to provide for her and ensure her well-being.
From the moment we meet C-Note, his actions are driven by the desperation to secure the funds necessary for Dede’s medical treatments. This need motivates his involvement in the Fox River escape, placing him on a collision course with Michael Scofield and the other inmates. Throughout his time on the run, C-Note’s thoughts are constantly with Dede and Kacee. He grapples with the guilt of his past actions and the fear that he will never be able to provide them with a stable and secure future. This internal conflict adds depth and complexity to his character, making him more than just a criminal; he is a flawed but ultimately good-hearted man striving to do right by his family.
His willingness to make a deal with the FBI, jeopardizing his own freedom to ensure Dede’s medical needs are met, is a testament to his unwavering love. This decision, while morally ambiguous, highlights the lengths to which he will go to protect his daughter. Even when faced with betrayal and hardship, C-Note never loses sight of his ultimate goal: to create a better life for Dede. He shows the audience that he is willing to risk everything to keep his promise to his little girl.
In later seasons, as C-Note seeks redemption and a chance to rebuild his life, his commitment to Dede remains central to his character. His desire to be a positive influence in her life and to make amends for his past mistakes shapes his actions and motivates him to become a better man. Dede’s presence serves as a constant reminder of the stakes involved and the importance of making the right choices.
Conclusion
The character of Dede Franklin played a vital role in the narrative tapestry of *Prison Break*. The portrayals of Dede, first by Cheyenne Hill and then by Chelsea Cardwell, helped to humanize C-Note and provide a compelling emotional anchor for his character arc. Dede served as his motivation and a moral anchor for his actions.
While both actresses may have moved on to other endeavors, their contributions to *Prison Break* remain a memorable part of the show’s legacy. They brought to life a character whose illness drove C-Note to make many of the decisions he did. The influence of family dynamics, particularly the bond between a father and daughter, proved to be a powerful and enduring theme throughout the series, leaving a lasting impact on viewers. The question of who played Dede Franklin on *Prison Break* leads us to recognize the impact of even supporting characters on the overall success and emotional resonance of a well-crafted television show. The roles of Cheyenne Hill and Chelsea Cardwell are both important when exploring the character arc of C-Note. The show *Prison Break* would not have been as popular if it was not for these types of familial characters and the actors who played them.
