WARNING: This article contains major spoilers for "Romeo v Juliet: Dawn of Justness," the latest episode of DC's Legends of Tomorrow.
DC's Legends of Tomorrow created and killed the Shakespeare Cinematic Universe all within the span of a single episode.
In "Romeo v Juliet: Dawn of Justness," the latest episode, the Legends accidentally inspired William Shakespeare to create a superhero epic. However, the Bard nixed the idea after a heart-to-heart with Ray Palmer, who was tasked with talking him out of his crossover plans.
"Bother me not! I'm making amendments to my script. I must elucidate more clearly what the steel man's takeaway lesson is from the story," Shakespeare told Ray. The statement was also a sly nod to Nate's emotional journey throughout the episode, as he struggled with saying goodbye to his friend.
"Oh, well, I'm actually here to speak to you about your new play," Ray said brightly.
"I know you!" Shakespeare cried, finally looking up from his parchment. "You're one of the constables that asked for the ring, and who caused such a glorious row with Henslowe and his men."
"Yes, and now I'm here to say that you cannot put on the show," Ray explained.
"But I've finally struck inspiration!" Shakespeare insisted. "Look, I have a plan: Romeo and Juliet will form a team. I will henceforth introduce the allies Hamlet, Viola and Puck, who will join forces to face Richard III!"
"I love the characters," he added. "So why say goodbye?"
"If you truly love the characters, don't they deserve a great ending?" Ray asked.
When Shakespeare admitted his misgivings about letting his characters go, Ray took a seat and said, "Endings are necessary for growth, no matter how painful they may be... I'm speaking from experience. I find myself in a similar situation. When I'm done here, I'm leaving my team for a new adventure, and ending our journey has proven more heartbreaking than I can bear. While I can't imagine saying goodbye, I know that I must."
"Very well," Shakespeare agreed. "I shall do what is needed for my beloved characters. Give Romeo and Juliet an ending no one will forget."
In addition to parodying the DC Extended Universe film Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, Shakespeare's shared universe appears to have drawn some inspiration from the Marvel Cinematic Universe's Avengers: Infinity War as well. When Nate, Ray and Zari found the players practicing, they overheard a few lines of dialogue, which indicated a plot to collect "gems" in order to save the world: "We must collect the gems to save the world!" cried one of the players, while another added, "While learning how to work more as a team!"
Airing Tuesdays at 9 p.m. ET/PT on The CW, DC’s Legends of Tomorrow stars Caity Lotz, Dominic Purcell, Brandon Routh, Nick Zano, Maisie Richardson-Sellers, Tala Ashe, Matt Ryan, Jes Macallan and Courtney Ford.