Melanie Cavill

Melanie Cavill
Biographical Information
Age	Unknown
Gender	Female
Eye Color	Green
Hair Color	Dark Brown
Height	5'5
Status	Alive
Character Information
Class	2nd Class (formerly)
Alias(es)	Mr. Wilford Mel
Occupation	Head of Hospitality (formerly) The Voice of Snowpiercer (formerly) Head Engineer of Snowpiercer
Education	MIT Yale
Language Spoken	English Cantonese
Relationships
Family	Unnamed parents † Alexandra Cavill (daughter)
Romance(s)	Bennett Knox
Friends	Jinju Seong Bennett Knox Henry Klimpt Miles Andre Layton (former enemy) Javier De La Torre Ruth Wardell Bess Till
Enemies	Erik Sotto † Lilah Folger † Robert Folger† LJ Folger Andre Layton (formerly) Josie Wellstead Nolan Grey † Joseph Wilford Miss Audrey
Portrayal
Portrayer	Jennifer Connelly
Appears in	Snowpiercer (TV Series) • Season 1 • Season 2 • Season 3
First Appearance	First, the Weather Changed

“	My goal has been the same from day one. That's to preserve life.	”
	— Melanie Cavill

Melanie Cavill is a main character in TNT's Snowpiercer. She is portrayed by Jennifer Connelly.

She is the Voice of the Train, who makes the PA system's daily announcements. Though many of her peers are dismissive of the lower class passengers, Melanie is curiously fascinated by them. In secret, Melanie is in fact the pretending to be the mysterious Mr. Wilford. She is one of the engineers that designed and created Snowpiercer in the first place and is the true mastermind behind the train's design. She abandoned the real Wilford to die when the journey began, believing that Snowpiercer wouldn't survive with him in charge.

After escaping execution, Melanie aids Layton in taking control of the train, returning to her former job as an Engineer before the arrival of Big Alice brought back the real Mr. Wilford and Melanie's daughter Alexandra, whom she had believed to be dead. Melanie served as the Head Engineer of Snowpiercer and worked with Layton on keeping the train safe from Wilford, before disembarking to complete a climate research project that would provide hope for Snowpiercer, by finding a habitable, warm zone on Earth.

History

According to Melanie, she grew up on a dirt farm in eastern Pennsylvania and came from nothing. As a result, she has sympathy for the lower classes and their struggles. At some point she graduated from MIT (hinted from her MIT jacket and hat), Melanie herself and Bennett would sometime jokes about it.

She secretly took on the identity of Mr. Wilford, the head of Wilford Industries who came up with Snowpiercer when the Freeze came. Melanie lost her daughter, Alexandra, when the Freeze came. Alex was with Melanie's parents, who were supposed to board the train together, but they never made it aboard.

When Snowpiercer began its journey, Melanie, believing that Mr. Wilford's selfish desires would doom humanity, "took the train" and abandoned him to die in Chicago. Melanie subsequently posed as the real Mr. Wilford to maintain order.

Throughout The Series

Hiring Layton

Melanie is the voice of the train aboard Snowpiercer, and also the head of hospitality. She receives numerous complaints from passengers that they have heard of uprisings on the train. Melanie sends Ruth Wardell to remove Andre Layton from the Tail in a bid to help with the investigations into the murder that has caused the widespread panic; it is revealed that Layton was a homicide detective before Snowpiercer departed.

Layton enters numerous negotiations with Melanie, outlining his terms for working the murder case — third-class immigration and rations for the Tailies. Melanie refuses each of his demands, however, remarking that it would do him well to help catch the murderer; she gives him a chance to escape the Tail of the train. Layton is told that if he can clear Nikki's name and solve the case they will make him Train Detective and move him to Third Class, he refuses, however, citing that he wants his demands met.

After the revolt of the Tailies, Melanie enlists Layton to calm them. When he is successful, Ruth reveals that Wilford will demand six of the Tailies lives in exchange for the security guards lost. Layton pleads with Melanie, agreeing to work for her and solve the murder if she spares the lives of his friends; she reluctantly agrees. She later returns to the front of the train where she takes over as driver, and it is revealed that she is in fact the mysterious Mr. Wilford.

The following day, Melanie is surprised to see Layton has been beaten up after causing a scene with the guards. She becomes increasingly angry and remarks that he is only in his position because "Mr. Wilford" needs him to solve the murder. She is impressed, however, when Layton figures out that Sean — the recent murder victim — was an informant for Wilford, hence why "he" wants the case solved to figure out what secrets were spilled.

Difficult decisions and choices

Melanie is faced with a difficult decision when Javi reveals that they are unlikely to pass through the upcoming glacial collapse without damage. Javi recommends that they scale back the power by 12%, however, Melanie cites that they cannot afford any blackouts — especially with the current concerns of the passengers — and that they should push ahead.

Later, Melanie realizes that this was the wrong decision when the cliff collapses and one of the Ag-Sec carriages is damaged, freezing everything inside. Melanie agrees to scale back 12% whilst the damage is fixed. Later, amidst concerns by Jinju and Bennett, Melanie decides that water and other essentials will be rationed per class; Bennett remarks that this is killing the passengers from the tail up.

Melanie is faced with a further difficult decision when Layton begins to find out details surrounding Sean's death. Layton refuses to reveal any of the information unless he is allowed to visit Josie Wellstead in the Tail. Eventually, Melanie reluctantly agrees but is oblivious to the fact that Layton is exchanging details about the Train's security with Josie.

After Niiki is murdered, Melanie faces anger and suspicion as she helps Layton look into the first-class passengers. Though Layton suspects first class will prevent any of their own from facing justice and expresses outrage at the luxuries they enjoy, Melanie assures him that she is on his side, revealing her own humble origins. Melanie orders Layton to be first-class' "worst nightmare from the Tail" while she will help clear the way for him. As they work together, Layton notices Melanie's level of power and becomes suspicious of her true identity.

After Erik is identified as the killer, Melanie, acting as Layton's partner due to Bess Till being busy chasing Erik, interrogates the Folger parents as Layton interrogates LJ Folger. After Erik is killed by the Jackboots, Layton signals to Melanie that LJ is responsible and she has Jackboots brought in who arrest LJ after a struggle when Layton announces her guilt. Melanie makes a train-wide announcement that the killer is dead and that the second suspect has been arrested before bringing Layton for a drink. By now, Melanie has realized that Layton knows who she really is which he confirms, stating that "a myth is a powerful thing." Melanie is revealed to have drugged Layton, apologizing to him and stating that she hopes that he never knows the weight that comes with being a myth. Melanie has Layton secretly put into the Drawers, keeping it off-the-books so that no one else knows about it. However, Melanie, not wanting Layton to get hurt, orders that Layton is not to be damaged.

Identity Crisis

Following the revelation that LJ Folger is partly responsible for Sean Wise's murder (and the first murder), Melanie convenes a tribunal to decide her fate. Things become difficult, however, when Third — specifically Miss Audrey and the Nightcar — begins causing trouble due to lack of representation on the tribunal. When Melanie confronts Audrey, the latter threatens Melanie, remarking that Third touches most of the train and will be heard one way or another.

Melanie heeds the warning and reselects the tribunal with one representative from each class — the Tail is not represented as they are not considered passengers. This move is not popular in First and Second and, when she LJ is found guilty — and reveals that Sean Wise was a Wilford Informant — she commutes her sentence as she fears LJ may be aware of her identity as the mysterious Mr. Wilford. Before reuniting LJ with her parents, she talks with her, and LJ promises to keep "Mr. Wilford's" secret as a thank you for commuting her sentence.

Layton holds Melanie at knifepoint

Melanie's situation is later amplified when Andre Layton is rescued from the Drawers by his girlfriend, Josie Wellstead, and comes after Melanie. He holds her at knifepoint whilst she is trying to fix the hydraulic system on Snowpiercer and tells her that he knows the drawers are experimental and not working properly. Melanie tells him that he has it wrong and that the drawers are a lifeboat, containing the very best part of humanity in an effort to save them from the freeze. Melanie warns Layton that the social order on Snowpiercer relies on the myth of Mr. Wilford, and that the society would collapse should her secret be revealed; Layton reluctantly allows her to leave to fix the hydraulics with the train in danger of derailment. With seconds to spare, Melanie saves the train. She later gifts Miles a caliper given to Melanie by Mr. Wilford himself and tells the boy that Mr. Wilford needs something from him.

Search for Layton

Melanie desperately searches for Layton, threatening Zarah Ferami and torturing Josie Wellstead for information. Melanie admits to Josie that she took on Mr. Wilford's identity and claims that if it had been up to her, things on the train would've been done very differently. Melanie personally tortures Josie by freezing her pinkie finger off using outside air but becomes sick at her actions. When Melanie returns, she finds Josie's whole hand frozen, done by Bess Till at Josie's request and Josie breaks free. The two women fight, resulting in outside air filling Hospitality. Melanie manages to escape while Josie freezes to death. During this time, Ruth Wardell tries to warn Melanie that the Folgers are planning their own revolution, but Melanie rudely brushes her off.

Melanie, showing signs of guilt over her actions, later promotes Miles to the engine and reassures herself that as engineers they must do whatever it takes to ensure humanity's survival.

Revolution

At Layton's request, Miles reveals to LJ Folger the truth about Melanie. Melanie later coaches Miles by driving the train himself and the two discuss their lost families. When Miles brings up still having his Tail mom Josie, Melanie shows a moment of guilt before they are interrupted by First demanding answers after LJ reveals to her parents what she has learned. Melanie is arrested and imprisoned in Hospitality but manages to trip an alarm warning Bennett to lock down the engine room. Javi abandons the engine while Bennett locks himself inside and tells Commander Grey, his men and Ruth that the real Mr. Wilford has been dead since boarding and that Melanie "took the train."

Ruth later visits her imprisoned friend in Hospitality for answers and Melanie admits that she abandoned the real Mr. Wilford to die in Chicago at departure. Melanie explains that she is the true visionary behind Snowpiercer while the real Mr. Wilford "sold tickets" and didn't believe in the survival of the human race, instead of desiring to spend the rest of his life surrounded by opulence. Believing that the train wouldn't survive one revolution with him in charge, Melanie abandoned Mr. Wilford to die and took his place and identity to ensure the survival of humanity. Upset, Ruth announces that Melanie will be executed for her crimes the next day before leaving Melanie alone.[1]

Melanie is subsequently imprisoned with captured revolutionaries awaiting their executions. However, she is rescued by Javi and Jinju and makes her way down train where Melanie is captured by Layton's people. Donning more casual clothes for once, Melanie offers a solution to the problem: disconnect several cars containing the Jackboot army and the Folgers. Having only ever intended to keep the last of humanity safe, Melanie knows that her way didn't work and wants to try Layton's way with him in charge. With little other choice and Miss Audrey believing her, Layton agrees to Melanie's plan.

Melanie gives Layton her access implant and contacts Bennett in the Engine to fill him in on the plan. Melanie explains to Layton that they must disconnect safety switches on either side of the planned disconnection, requiring Layton to infiltrate the forward section. When the time comes, Melanie pulls her switch down train and watches as the forward part of the train pulls ahead. Layton eventually pulls the other switch, allowing Bennett and Miles to disconnect seven cars containing the Folgers, aside from LJ, Grey, the Jackboot army, and the prisoners. After the train is reconnected, Layton confronts Melanie, realizing that she knew he'd have to cut the prisoners loose. Melanie confirms it, stating that she knew he'd have to make the choice and that these are the decisions that they have to live with every day. Melanie then declares that Snowpiercer is Layton's.

A surprising return

Melanie running to the Docking Car.

Returning to Hospitality, Melanie broadcasts a message officially handing control of the train to Layton. Consumed with guilt over leaving her daughter behind to die, Melanie visits Miss Audrey to get some solace.

After a confrontation with Ruth, Melanie returns to work as an Engineer investigating a strange signal that proves to come from Big Alice, a Wilford supply train with a prototype of the Eternal Engine. As Big Alice clamps onto Snowpiercer and begins taking control, Melanie, worried that the other train contains the real Mr. Wilford, chooses to climb outside and cut the uplink. After angrily realizing that Bennett covered up the approach of Big Alice, Melanie heads outside alone, cutting Bennett's air supply so that he can't follow her. However, Big Alice brings Snowpiercer to a stop in the middle of Chicago, throwing Melanie from the train. Surviving the fall, Melanie begins making way along the stopped trains, unaware that her daughter had just boarded Snowpiercer from Big Alice as Wilford's diplomatic envoy.

Reuniting with Wilford

Following Big Alice's connection with Snowpiercer, Melanie ventures outside to evaluate the situation. She finds the uplink between Snowpiercer and Big Alice and begins hacking away at the link. Eventually, she is able to sever the link between the two, allowing Javi and Bennett to take back control of Snowpiercer's immediate life support systems; furthermore, she attaches a sticky charge to the linking mechanism keeping the two trains together.

After her suit begins failing, she is forced to board Big Alice, where she is met by a familiar face, Kevin, and numerous new members of hospitality. She is taken to Mr. Wilford's office, where the reunion between the two is hostile and unfamiliar. Mr. Wilford explains how he lay in wait until seeing his opportunity to take back control of Snowpiercer, but is surprised when Melanie explains that Snowpiercer is no longer hers to surrender — it belongs to the Tail.

With this, Melanie is held in a holding cell but is later forced to watch as Wilford orders her daughter, Alex, to detach from Snowpiercer and leave her behind. Despite numerous attempts at pleading with Alex, she is unable to convince her not to cut the link, and when she does, Melanie sarcastically remarks that she made a big mistake and watches as the linking mechanism is destroyed by the charge, forever linking Big Alice and Snowpiercer.

Connection with Alex

Melanie is surprised when she finds out that her daughter, Alex, is alive and Wilford's closest ally and engineer — a position which she previously held. Melanie finds it difficult connecting with Alex after all the years they spent apart, given Alex is resentful of Melanie for leaving her and their family behind.

Melanie eventually gets a chance to talk with Alex and explains about life outside of Snowpiercer and Big Alice. Melanie tells Alex that she sent a search party out for her and their grandparents, to which Alex informs her that they wanted to die at home. Tensions rise between the two when Alex asks Melanie about the snow sample she collected, with Alex not believing Melanie when she explains that she was just curious.

A Chance at Recolonization

Melanie is later traded by Wilford for Kevin, but Alex smashes her snow sample. After reuniting and reminiscing with Layton, Melanie heads to the Engine where she reveals her discovery to Javi and Bennett. Melanie then explains the shocking reason that she believes that it was snowing: CW-7 is breaking up in the atmosphere and falling to Earth. As a result, the planet is warming again. As Javi rushes off to make preparations, Melanie and Bennett embrace and Melanie is pleased by the chance to share the good news with the train.

Later, the three and Layton launch a probe into the upper atmosphere which confirms that the planet is warming again. Melanie tells Layton that they will need to figure out the details, but the Earth is coming back alive. However, Melanie needs access to Wilford's supplies and he will never willingly sign up for anything that he's not in charge of. Layton suggests that as their mission is hope and Wilford wants to fight that, they make him do it out in the open. Although Melanie is reluctant, she agrees and tells Layton that he needs Ruth on his side.

Layton and Melanie subsequently hold a scientific summit with Wilford in First Class dining, surprising Wilford to see them together give their history with each other. Melanie lays out her discovery for the people of both trains which Wilford's scientists agree could in fact be possible. Melanie informs the gathered crowd that they must first boot up the research station in the Rocky Mountains, but one of Big Alice's crew warns her that that route is not fit for Snowpiercer. Ignoring her, Melanie states that they next need to release sounding balloons as far east as the Himalayan terminus that will send data to the research station and Snowpiercer will return in a month's time to collect it at which point they will hope to have found what they're looking for: an X on the map, a place warm enough for life to begin again. Wilford points out that the research station will have to be manned and the only person capable of doing it is Melanie herself and tauntingly states that Melanie's projects always seem to involve leaving someone behind. Wilford only agrees to help if Melanie goes herself and in turn, she demands that all hostilities cease and the trains work together which Wilford claims is what he wants. Melanie states that she will send an inventory of everything that she needs and to cheers announces that "the future is outside."

As Wilford leaves, Melanie tells Layton that Wilford is right and that it should be her. Layton states that Melanie should've told him and asks him to come back to get her. Melanie leads Wilford back to the Tail where Alex confronts her mother and demands that Melanie does not state that it's for Alex. Melanie insists that it's for everyone and that "it's hope." Alex leaves without a word, smearing her blood on the side of the door as she goes.

Departure from the train

Melanie later accepts that she will be the one to lead the data collection mission at the observatory. After formulating a plan, however, Melanie alerts Big Alice's engine that Snowpiercer does not have enough reserves to make it through the Rocky Mountains but, with aid from Big Alice's boosters and cutting power to First and Second class, Snowpiercer will make it through the mountains.

Mr. Wilford agrees to the plan, and Melanie is forced to sit in Snowpiercer's Engine and listen to Alex's terror whilst she drives the trains over the mountains. Melanie assures Alex that she is an engineer and will be successful if she puts her mind to it and 'feels the train'. Alex is successfully able to navigate the Rocky Mountains without much difficulty following Melanie's advice.

With Snowpiercer and Big Alice over the mountain, Melanie prepares to depart. She tells Layton that they must not measure the success of the mission with her return, but rather with the data she collects; the two exchange a bittersweet goodbye shortly after. As Melanie crosses the border between Big Alice and Snowpiercer, she is bid farewell by those aboard, with Ruth wishing her luck and remarking that they will see her again.

Aboard Big Alice, Melanie talks with Alex one final time before departure. Alex is saddened by the fact that Melanie is leaving her once again, but Melanie assures her that they must do what is right for everyone and not each other. With this, Melanie says goodbye to Alex and jumps from Big Alice into the snow.

A few days later, Snowpiercer launches their first weather balloon. After a tense moment, Melanie makes contact with it, proving that she had survived her trip to the research station. However, they eventually lose contact with Melanie, creating fear that she has perished.

Work at the Research Station

Melanie is able to reach the Breslauer Weather Station, but loses most of her supplies in an avalanche. However, Melanie finds a geothermal vent that opened up and rats that she is able to eat. Over time at the station, Melanie uncovers the fate of some climate scientists that had settled there and hallucinates Layton, Wilford and Alex talking to her while flashing back on her theft of Snowpiercer. After her antenna falls during a storm, Melanie loses contact with Snowpiercer, but manages to get all of her data. The train returns late and when Melanie rushes to the tracks, she sees sparks flying from beneath Big Alice while Alex yells for her mother from the window. The trains race past, leaving Melanie alone in the snow at the side of the tracks.

Going Back for Melanie

Forced to work in Big Alice's Engine after Wilford takes control of Snowpiercer, Javi receives a radio message from Melanie, but he hides it from Wilford who refuses to go back to her. Javi manages to send a note to Layton and Ruth informing them of his discovery.

Escaping from Big Alice's Compost, Layton and Ruth kill two Jackboots in the Engine and help Javi coordinate in secret with Bennett to rendezvous with Melanie while Layton and Bojan Boscovic prepare to bring her onboard. However, Wilford realizes what they are up to, seeing through Alex's attempted deception with the help of LJ Folger. Wilford and his Jackboots break into the Engine and Wilford has Jupiter maul Javi to death. Wilford battles with Bennett for control of the trains as they speed past Melanie, ultimately leaving her behind.

Escaping to Snowpiercer, Alex proposes creating a ten car pirate train in order to go back for Melanie and her data separately and to be able to resist Wilford outside of his control. After Josie Wellstead breaches the Aquarium Car, Layton succeeds in creating a separate train and turns back to find Melanie.

Presumed Death

After stopping the train near the research station, Layton and Alex trek together to the station to find Melanie. Upon arrival, they discover the temperature inside to be -97 degrees and no sign of Melanie. Searching further, they find one of Melanie's batteries still with some power connected to her drives and a heartbroken Alex realizes that her mother is gone. Upset as well over Melanie's loss, Layton realizes that Melanie saved the drives and the important data that they contained and leads Alex back to Snowpiercer. Alex finds a letter that Melanie left for her at the research station revealing that Melanie had used up all of her resources and ate her rats to extinction. Knowing that her batteries could only keep her alive for a few more hours but keep the drives safe for months on a trickle charge, Melanie chose to sacrifice herself to ensure humanity's future, knowing that Alex would come back and continue her work. After writing her letter, Melanie donned her suit and walked into the Freeze to die.

Back on Snowpiercer, Layton's crew discovers that Melanie had succeeded in finding parts of the planet that are warmer, ensuring that humanity has a future outside of the trains.

However, while the pirate train spends six months searching five of the six locations that Melanie's data revealed, they are still too cold for recolonization, although Layton finds a survivor in one spot. Based on a vision he had while near death, Layton becomes convinced that the last location, the Horn of Africa, is inhabitable.

After encountering three Big Alice cars disconnected as part of a culling by Wilford, Alex is haunted by hallucinations of Melanie who encourages her daughter to confront her past and her conflicted feelings over Wilford. With Melanie's encouragement, Alex is able to use the things that Wilford had taught her to solve the problem herself. Simultaneously, Wilford himself hallucinates Melanie and apologizes to her after he realizes that Alex will see the body of her friend Shilo. When Sam Roche tries to murder him, Wilford begs Melanie for help, but she just stares down at him. Alex hallucinates Melanie one last time as she's visiting a recovering Wilford, telling Melanie that Wilford doesn't seem so powerful in this state. Melanie then disappears.

Wilford later enlists Alex's help with performing some calculations before revealing that he has created a map of the Pirate train's course and Big Alice's hunt for it. Wilford explains that about three months into the search, he had thought that he'd caught a break, a track switch signal near Marseilles that Big Alice had followed and found no sign of them. However, Alex points out that the Pirate train was on a different continent at the time which means it wasn't them. While Alex thinks that it could have been a malfunction, Wilford believes that it was Melanie and that she is still alive out there somewhere.

By checking out the power of various track switches, Bennett and Alex find a trail leading back to Neckbreaker where Melanie was last seen. The two theorize that Melanie could've reached a hanger on Neckbreaker and taken one of the automated vehicles stored there. However, they can't be sure that she's still alive as the vehicles are bare-bones and not equipped with supplies to support life. Snowpiercer is diverted to follow the course of Melanie's vehicle and, after passing through a toxic cloud of gas, Bennett and Alex pick up the vehicle's signal nearby.

Melanie's Track Scaler is eventually found by Snowpiercer and brought aboard by Bennett and Josie Wellstead. Melanie is discovered inside, still alive but unconscious, having used the suspension drug for the Drawers to keep herself alive for six months as she searched for Snowpiercer. After being rescued, Melanie is rushed to Doctor Pelton's clinic for treatment.

Betraying Layton

Three days after being rescued, Melanie awakens with Alex by her side. Melanie is happily reunited with her friends and especially Bennett. However, Melanie becomes concerned as she goes over the data on the Horn of Africa and consults with Wilford who reminds Melanie that the data doesn't support Layton's belief in New Eden and the track going there was unsafe eight years ago and will only have gotten worse over time. Layton dismisses Melanie's concerns and she observes the party as the trains pass the Pyramids of Giza. Returning to Hospitality, Melanie makes an announcement to the train, praising the unity that she has seen for the first time that was created by the dream of New Eden. However, Melanie betrays Layton and reveals the truth about his lie to the train. With the help of an enraged Javi, Melanie seizes First and the Engine, locking Layton and Bennett out.

Later, Melanie contacts Bennett in Big Alice's Engine, insisting that she had no choice as the turn for the Horn of Africa is coming up. Bennett is furious with Melanie and hangs up on her, refusing to answer Melanie's question about if Alex is with him. Melanie goes to visit Wilford only to discover that he has killed his guards and escaped.

As tensions rise with only twenty-four hours until the turn to the Horn of Africa, Melanie is confronted with the reality of her decisions and how far she is willing to go, especially with Alex angry at her and Ruth ultimately siding with Layton. Melanie makes a deal with Wilford, believing that a united front between their factions will force Layton to back down, but she remains uneasy with it. Layton later calls Melanie and together the two recognize that they no longer want the train to be ruled by fear or bloodshed which only plays right into Wilford's hands. Instead, Melanie pretends to accept Wilford's offer to use Liana to force Layton to surrender in order to lure him into a trap. Together, Melanie and Layton exile Wilford on the Track Scaler with a supply of the suspension drug and stimulants, placing Wilford in the same position that Melanie was left in for six months.

Going Separate Ways

Melanie and Layton subsequently make a joint announcement to the trains, offering everyone a choice: stay on Snowpiercer under Melanie or leave on Big Alice for New Eden. Melanie promises to no longer lead by fear but through science and truth. As everyone makes their choice, Bennett predicts that the train has a decade or two at most left and agrees to join Melanie when she promises to give him her all. However, Alex decides to go on Big Alice with Layton and the two say a tearful goodbye, Melanie leaving her daughter her jacket. At the separation point in Ag-Sec, Melanie and Layton share a warm goodbye, with Melanie promising to look after Miles for him while Layton looks after Alex for her. Later, in the Engine, Miles notices an increase in power which Melanie explains is because of the loss of weight from the departure of Big Alice. Melanie asks if they can still see the other train, but Bennett tells her that they can't and Big Alice is hitting some weather.

Three months later, Melanie sits alone in Snowpiercer's Engine when she suddenly notices something shoot into the sky and explode, concerning her.

Personality

She is cunning and if anything brings her down, she always finds a loophole to get around it. Aboard the train, she takes the position of Head of Hospitality which gains her a great reputation aboard the train as well as making new or keeping friends.

Relationships

Andre Layton

At first, Melanie maintained a purely professional relationship with Layton, locking him up when he wasn't working and being reluctant to trust him. In turn, Layton figured out Melanie's secret on his own simply by observing her actions and behavior. As time went on, their relationship slightly improved after Melanie used her position to clear the way for Layton with the Folgers, revealing in the process to Layton her own humble origins and sympathies for the lower class passengers. However, Layton's discovery of the truth caused Melanie to put him in the Drawers, acknowledging that he was correct and that she hoped that he never had to understand the burden that she had to bear. Despite the danger that Layton's knowledge presented, Melanie took pains to ensure that he remained unharmed.

Following Layton's escape, he nearly killed Melanie before she explained the true purpose of the Drawers and that she was the only one who could save Snowpiercer. Melanie subsequently became enemies with Layton, particularly after she apparently killed Josie Wellstead while trying to find him. After First Class revolted, Melanie turned to Layton and offered him her help and to his surprise, stated that she intended to give control of the train to Layton after they won. Melanie admitted that she had done many terrible things in the name of saving humanity, but knew that her way didn't work. As a result, she thought that giving Layton's way a chance might be a better option. Layton made it clear to Melanie that there personal feud was not over, however. After being forced to sacrifice the prisoners in order to defeat the Folgers and the Jackboots, Layton realized that Melanie knew that he would have to do it which she confirmed. Melanie sympathetically told Layton that such decisions were what they have to live with every day.

After the rebellion, Melanie kept her word and officially gave Layton control of Snowpiercer. Following this, their relationship appeared to improve greatly, working together to keep the passengers alive. After the discovery of Big Alice, Melanie went so far as to consult Layton as their new leader rather than just acting on her own. When Melanie was captured, Layton endeavored to get her back and once he had her, showed genuine concern for Melanie's well-being and asked after her recently-discovered alive daughter. The two continued to work together after the discovery of CW-7 breaking up in the atmosphere, bouncing ideas off of it each other and facing Wilford as a united front. Wilford expressed surprise at this given that they had tried to kill each other in the past. Before departing, Melanie calls Layton by his first name for the first time as they say goodbye.

After discovering Melanie's apparent death, Layton is visibly saddened but like everyone else, happy with the data that Melanie got for them and apparently sacrificed her life for.

Six months later, Layton is pleased when Melanie is discovered to still be alive and he helps rescue her. However, Melanie betrays Layton, placing them at odds once again. Despite their differences, Melanie and Layton recognize that they are simply playing into Wilford's hands and neither want bloodshed or fear again, allowing them to reach a peaceful solution to the situation. When the trains separate, the two hug each other goodbye and promise to take care of each other's loved ones, parting on good terms.

Appearances

Appearance	EP1	EP2	EP3	EP4	EP5	EP6	EP7	EP8	EP9	EP10
Season 1	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Season 2	✔	✔	✔	M	M	✔	M	M	V/M	✔
Season 3	M	M	M	H	M		M	M	✔	✔
Season 4	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
✔ = Appeared			Did Not Appeared				H = Hallucinations
V = Voiced			M = Mentioned				F = Flashback

Memorable Quotes

Season 1

• S1E1
• S1E2
• S1E3
• S1E4
• S1E5
• S1E6
• S1E7
• S1E8
• S1E9
• S1E10

First, the Weather Changed

“	Attention all passengers. Wilford Industries wishes you a good morning. The temperature outside is minus 119.6 degrees Celsius. As we enter the Yukon Territory of the former Canada, we remind you, for your personal safety, be prepared to brace. We are 6 years, 9 months, and 26 days from departure. At the tone, the exact time will be 0800 hours.	”
	— Melanie Cavill's daily announcement.

“	Good evening, passengers. Be advised, track conditions will deteriorate over the next 24 hours. Remain safe and prepare to brace. From Mr. Wilford and all of us at Wilford Industries. Good night.	”
	— Melanie's announcement before Tailie rebellion.

“	You want justice, Detective, clear her. And if you catch the killer, we'll make you Train Detective and move you to Third Class.	”
	— Melanie asking Layton to help solving the case.

Bennett: "It's gonna be bumpy tomorrow."

Melanie: "Yeah. I hate this stretch of track. Thanks, Ben."

Bennett: "You have the train... Mr. Wilford."

Melanie: "I have the train."

―  Ben revealing Melanie is Mr. Wilford.

Prepare to Brace

Jinju: "We can’t ration any more power to Ag-Sec unless we start canceling crops."

Melanie: "We’re not breaking rotation."

Bennett: "Water won’t flow for a couple days at least. Not until the crack in the hull is seal."

Jinju: "Then we only have what’s in the reservoir for Third, Ag-Sec and Tail."

Melanie: "[ sighs] We ration the people, not the crops. Third and Second will get 15 minutes of running water a day, and the Tail will have to survive on what they’ve hoarded."

Bennett: "Is this what the start of a resource crash feels like? Starving the train from the tail up."

Jinju: "It’s not just the beef. It’s manure for fertilizer. It’s bovine cultures. We use their methane."

Melanie: "I know. It’s bad. But how bad stays between us. In the meantime, we press ahead with selecting the new apprentice and we bolster faith in Wilford to get them through."

―  Jinju Seong, Bennett Knox and Melanie Cavill discussing the damage to Snowpiercer.

Melanie: "What do you see...when you look at this train?"

Layton: "I see a fortress to class."

Melanie: "Is that all? Well, I see 3,000 souls surviving on a planet that's determined to freeze all life in place. We're still in motion, alive and kicking, and it's not thanks to chance or fate or God. It is thanks to order, meticulously maintained by Mr. Wilford. A balance of need and greed and speed, and you Tailies, who seem to have forgotten that it is 117 degrees below zero outside of this metal tube, and Mr. Wilford is awake 21 hours a day just to keep the Goddamn heat on."

Layton: "Guess that's why it needs informants like Sean Wise. Wise was a Wilford rat. He got paid in perks...like the rigged Baby Lottery. Why else would you care so much about a Thirdie's murder? So, what you really want to know is, when he was tortured, what Wilford secrets did he spill? Y'all got killers and cannibals and God-knows what else up here. So don't lecture me about balance. My people found ours years ago."

Melanie: "Okay. Very perceptive. No wonder Mr. Wilford wants you as Train Detective. But that's the only reason you're still here now."

―  Melanie to Layton after Layton tried to make contact with The Tail.

Access Is Power

“	We all know it’s been a tough 48 hours. It seems the events have been on Mr. Wilford’s mine as well. He’s written a personal message for us all. To my loyal and trusted crew, without whom this mission could never succeed. In this time of adversity, I ask you, the lead stewards of humanity, to remain unshaken in spirit and resolve, as you’ve done so nobly these past seven years. By your steady hand, we will ride out this hardship, and outlive the ice. Bound by our cause and our need. Wilford.	”
	— Melanie reading Mr. Wilford's letter to the First Class, after the train has been damaged.

Without Their Maker

Bennett: "So... have you thought of a workaround for the methane shortage?"

Melanie: "Yup. Goat farts."

Bennett: "Very good! MIT."

Melanie: "[chuckles] I know it would pay off."

―  We learned Melanie graduated from MIT

“	Layton, I was born on a dirt farm in eastern Pennsylvania. I came from nothing. I know a thing or two about class. That anger that you feel when you look at all of this? It's justified. Let's use it. Whoever the killer is, First is going to protect their own, so you be their worst nightmare from the Tail. I'll do the rest.	”
	— Melanie to Layton when he see the arts hanging on The First's wall.

Lilah: "On behalf of everyone here, I demand to speak to Mr. Wilford. It's time, Melanie."

Bennett: "[TELEPHONE RINGS] This is Bennett."

Melanie: "I'm sorry. I need you to put me through to him. It's urgent."

Bennett: "Oh, hey, are we doing this again?"

Melanie: "Thank you. I'll wait."

Bennett: "Anything to put a smile on your face."

Melanie: "Mr. Wilford. Good news first. We may have identified the killer."

Bennett: "Is that for real? Or is that part of the act?"

Melanie: "Yeah, a bodyguard from First. But the family's reluctant to let your Detective in to investigate, and they would like a word."

Bennett: "Well, that would piss me right off. Huff, huff, huff."

Melanie: "The Folgers. It's their man. Yes, Lilah Folger, sir. I know, but she's demanding it. Very good."

Lilah: "[ MURMURING ] For the investigation, we will allow him in, but only if you accompany him."

Melanie: "Mr. Wilford, my apologies. It seems everything is sorted."

Bennett: "I miss you, Mel."

Melanie: "Thank you for that. Goodbye, sir."

―  Melanie calls Mr. Wilford for Lilah Folger as she insists to have Layton investigate their quarters.

“	Attention all passengers. On behalf of Mr. Wilford, I share this news... the murderer who hid among us is dead, and a second suspect is in custody. Thanks to a successful investigation, order has been restored, and Mr. Wilford assures you justice will prevail. From all of us at Wilford Industries, thank you.	”
	— Melanie through the P.A. system.

Melanie: "You figured it out, Layton. I know you did."

Layton: "A myth's a powerful thing."

Melanie: "Pray you never know the weight of it. I'm sorry, Layton."

―  Melanie and Layton discuss her true identity.

Justice Never Boarded

Melanie: "That stunt was beneath you, Audrey."

Miss Audrey: "No, it really wasn't."

Melanie: "I'm sorry about Nikki. I am. But one suspect is dead, and the other is standing trial for murder. What am I missing?"

Miss Audrey: "You know the trial is a joke. It's five miles uptrain, where a jury of First and Second get to judge one of their own for killing three of us."

Melanie: "Us? The Nightcar is supposed to be Switzerland. Why are you politicizing it?"

Miss Audrey: "Third has the right to petition Wilford in labor disputes and matters of jurisprudence. We want a new tribunal drawn... one representative from each class and a delegation to observe the trial."

Melanie: "For Christ's sake, Audrey."

Miss Audrey: "You've grown callous doing Wilford's bidding. You used to try to make a difference, too."

Melanie: "And I stood right here when you shared your vision of the Nightcar. Wilford saw a brothel. And you saw a higher purpose."

Miss Audrey: "And you persuaded him I was right."

Melanie: "And I am asking you to stay true to your vision. You give us a place to work through our grief, and the train depends on it!"

Miss Audrey: "And we depend on you, on your voice to Wilford's ear. Recommend a new tribunal."

Melanie: "Or what?"

Miss Audrey: "Don't make me threaten you, Melanie. Third touches every system on this train. We will be heard."

―  Melanie and Miss Audrey conversation about a new tribunal.

Bennett: "We haven't done that since the bees died. I'm sensing a bit of a pattern."

Melanie: "God, I wish I could open a frigging window. You remember fresh air? Mm? You remember... going for walks?"

Bennett: "Rain. I miss the sound of rain."

Melanie: "I miss so many things."

Bennett: "Are you gonna do this? Draw a new tribunal?"

Melanie: "I just want to breathe."

―  Melanie and Bennett after hooking up.

“	Attention, passengers. Mr. Wilford has accepted a Third Class petition to redraw the tribunal for today's trial. One name has been drawn randomly from each class. If your name is called, please report immediately to your Hospitality representative. From First Class, our jurist is Edith Gusterfeld. From Second Class, primary teacher Mary-Elizabeth Gillies. And representing Third Class... Papermaker Walter Flemming. Again, Edith Gusterfeld, Mary-Elizabeth Gillies, and Walter Flemming... Let's go! ...please report to Hospitality. Thank you.	”
	— Melanie announcing the jurists from there classes.

Ruth: "Doesn't Mr. Wilford understand that you can't just change the rules?"

Melanie: "I guess they're his rules to change. He chose the will of the people."

Ruth: "We don't have will. We have order."

―  Ruth to Melanie about changing the rules.

Melanie: "Lilah. Whatever you're doing behind closed doors, don't."

Lilah: "Let me tell you a Folger family story. When LJ was 7, she put out Robert's eye. Lashed out with a fork and punctured it all over his face. And even as the jelly was running down his cheek, he held her through the tantrum, protecting her. So you go ahead with your Hospitality show trial and prepare to suffer the consequences. Because you're fucking with my bloodline."

―  Melanie confronts Lilah.

Melanie: "Before I release you to your parents...Mr. Wilford has asked me to stress the importance of discretion."

LJ: "Oh. Oh, so don't spill all of his Drawer secrets?"

Melanie: "What did Sean Wise tell you exactly?"

LJ: "That's between me and Mr. Wilford, isn't it?"

Melanie: "He's taking an extraordinary risk in helping you."

LJ: "Third Class? I think they'll get over it."

Melanie: "I mean you, LJ. I mean letting you walk free."

LJ: "Wilford looked out for me, so... I'll look out for him."

―  Melanie talking to LJ before releasing her to her parents.

Trouble Comes Sideways

Melanie: "Look. They’re circulated all through Third. It’s blowback from the trial."

Jinju: "Shit. They can cripple every system on the train."

Melanie: "Yes they could."

Jinju: "They’d suffer along with the rest of us. They’re putting the gun to their own head."

Melanie: "Well, it seems like to pull the balance of power their way, they’re willing to risk it."

Jinju: "What do you gonna do?"

Melanie: "I’m going to crush it."

―  Melanie and Jinju discuss The Third's Strike at the Engine.

“	It has come to Mr. Wilford's attention that a work stoppage is planned for today. Mr. Wilford would like to remind you that your labor is sacred! As non-paying passengers, it is also your ticket aboard. These are the terms. We all have our places and our jobs, and Mr. Wilford expects...If this work stoppage goes ahead, Mr. Wilford will seize 10 striking workers at random and send them to the Tail. He will bring 10 Tailies forward to fill their posts. You think life in Third is bad? There are 400 souls downtrain who would kill for what you have! Protect it! Call off the strike. Thank you.	”
	— Melanie to The Thirdies.

Melanie: "Ruth, remember. Calm Hospitality... "

Ruth: "...Calm Train."

Melanie: "...Calm Train."

―  Melanie reminding Ruth to stay calm.

Melanie: "Layton!"

Layton: "Hello, Mr. Wilford. I know what you're doing. The hundreds of names, your lists! Anyone has a bad word, has an unsanctioned thought, they get thrown in a drawer, yeah?"

Melanie: "No, you don't understand."

Layton: "Look at my face. It was a Tailie that got you, in the end."

Melanie: "Unh! Layton, let me go. The train needs me. The drawers aren't what you think."

Layton: "The drawers are hell and my people are still in there!"

Melanie: "They're not a prison! They're a lifeboat. We're hanging by our nails. Layton, we're hanging by our nails. The whole goddamn human experiment, it can be undone by a bloom of mold. If the social order collapses, if resources fail, if mechanics fail, our best hope is to keep life in suspension, to keep people in stasis while we ride out this Freeze. 400 people. They were selected for diversity, for health, for skills, to give us a fighting chance on the other side!"

Layton: "You decide who lives and who dies."

Melanie: "No. We all made that choice, when we boarded this train and we left people behind. This train's dying, Layton. Please, let me fix her."

―  Layton confronting Melanie about the Drawers.

“	I designed her. I'll fix her.	”
	— Melanie to Bennett.

Melanie: "Hey. Do you know what this is?"

Miles: "A caliper."

Melanie: "Every Engineer needs one. Mr. Wilford gave me this. I want you to have it. There's something Mr. Wilford needs from you, Miles."

―  Melanie asking Miles for a favor.

The Universe Is Indifferent

“	Attention all passengers. Wilford Industries wishes you good morning. Yesterday, during the Torreta Canyon Crisis, Electrical Engineer Peter DiMarco paid the ultimate price for our survival. Let us all observe a moment for his spark. As crops must grow, new blood will flow. So as is our custom, we will now announce an apprentice replacement. Today, the greatest of honors...The young man known as Miles and Miles will be fast-tracked to the Engine! Thank you for your faith and your labors. As always, our Great Engineer, Mr. Wilford, wishes you a pleasant day.	”
	— Melanie announcing the apprentice replacement.

“	I understand you're pregnant. Congratulations. That's wonderful news. You know it's a privilege to have a child on Snowpiercer? It's not a right. And privileges... well, they can be taken away just as easily as they're given.	”
	— Melanie threatening Zarah.

“	My name is Melanie. You don't know me, but I speak for Mr. Wilford. You've rebelled against the order of this train many times. Your brothers and sisters...have died. Your children have died. And you have nothing to show for it. I'm here to tell you, if you try again, you will fail again.	”
	— Melanie to the Tailies.

Melanie: "You know, once you pass through that door, there's no turning back. You'll be an Engineer. But to be an Engineer on Snowpiercer, you have to make sacrifices. And that can be hard."

Miles: "Are you happy as an Engineer?"

Melanie: "The needs of the train are more important than our own happiness. We're Engineers. We keep the world alive."

―  Melanie talking to Miles.

These Are His Revolutions

Melanie: "This is Chicago, and we should be there in a day and a half."

Miles: "This is our slowest revolution, isn’t it? Twenty-two hours off average."

Melanie: "We lose a little bit of time each revolution. So it’s on us to reverse that."

Miles: "Because if Snowpiercer stops, we all die."

Melanie: "That’s right."

Miles: "Melanie, what was your daughter like?"

Melanie: "She was… smart. Like you. Sweet. Much nicer than me."

Miles: "What happened to her?"

Melanie: "She was with my parents at the end, Allie was supposed to get on the train with them... but she didn’t make it."

Miles: "My parents didn’t made it either, but I had my tail mom Josie."

―  Melanie let Miles control the train.

The Train Demanded Blood

Layton: "You knew I'd have to cut them."

Melanie: "I knew the choice would be yours. It's what we live with, Layton. Every second of our existence. You have the train, Layton."

―  Layton wins at a terrible cost.

994 Cars Long

“	Attention, all passengers. The temperature outside, is minus 121.9 degrees Celsius. As we approach Chicago, Mile Zero of our cycle life, be prepared to brace. We’re all haunted by our choices, the personal choices we all made when we boarded this train, and the collective choices that brought us to that day. Choices made over decades, even when we knew climate change was real. And finally, my own choice to pirate this ark, and lie to you all, which has brought us to where we are now, May we all move forward with greater awareness, of the choices that we make. We are one train. And today, that train chooses change. I hereby relinquish governance of Snowpiercer to the rebel forces. These are our revolutions, 994 cars long.	”
	— Melanie's opening dialogue, announcing the new train leader.

Season 2

• S2E1
• S2E2
• S2E3
• S2E6
• S2E10

The Time of Two Engines

Wilford: "You stole my train! Used my name."

Melanie: "Well, you plastered it everywhere."

Wilford: "I built the world! It’s the only one left and it’s mine. I run it! You? You were fixing tractors on Daddy’s farm. I lifted you out of pig shit at 17. I shared everything. I gave you everything. The solution…"

Melanie: "There’s no solution…"

Wilford: "There’s no solution…"

Wilford: "Oh, for God’s sake!"

Melanie: "… until we can go back out there!"

Wilford: "This is the world. A rolling steel artery on a dead marble."

―  

Melanie: "You’re an engineer…"

Wilford: "Engineer, bring Snowpiercer to a full stop."

Alex: "Full stop, gladly."

Melanie: "Alex..."

Wilford: "Reverse."

Bennette: "He dropped the anchor."

Javi: "No. We can’t stop. He’ll disconnect."

―  Melanie learned Alex is an engineer.

Wilford: "I’m taking her back, Mel. If you can’t get this Layton to surrender my train, Alex will disconnect, and we’ll take a short spin in reverse. When we return, they’ll all be dead. And your job for the next several years, will be to compost every last one of them."

Wilford: "Disconnect Snowpiercer, reverse one-quarter speed."

Melanie: "Don’t do it."

Alex: "Why?"

Melanie: "Because it’s right, because that train is our future."

Wilford: "[chuckles] Oh my god, get me that whiskey. (To Alex) JUST GET IT DONE!"

Melanie: "If you disconnect, all of those people will die. A whole world… will die. Believe me. You don’t want that on your conscience."

Wilford: "Disconnect. Now. Alex… Come on now… Alex… It’s alright…"

Melanie: "Wrong choice, honey. [Bomb exploded]"

―  Wilford stopping Snowpiercer for the second time.

Alex: "I can’t disconnect."

Wilford: "What have you done?"

Melanie: "He overbuilt the connecting mechanism. I said so at the time, remember? I told you if something goes wrong with that central lock we won’t be able to manually undo the grappling arms."

Alex: "Holy shit. We’re stuck together."

Melanie: "Yeah, we are, permanently. So, you better give Alex the order to get Snowpiercer moving again or we’ll all die in a few minutes."

Wilford: "Never."

Melanie: "It’s kind of the only solution, really. We’ll have to find a way to work together."

Alex: "She got you, Dubs."

Wilford: "Shut up!"

Alex: "Really don’t have a choice… [Approaches to the lever.]"

―  Melanie's plan saved Snowpiercer.

Smolder to Life

“	Every year before the snow came, my father would burn slash piles. Mounds of deadfall and brush, flames as high as the barn… I’d hold my face up to the hear and dare myself closer, like I was walking into the sun. (…) When Alex was old enough, she helped me hose down the ash pits. And I’d warn her, like my dad warned me, of the heat lurking inside. Ready to smolder to life, like a visit from a ghost. These are her revolutions now, On Snowpirecer, 1,034 cars long.	”
	— Melanie's opening dialogue.

Layton: "Ladies and gentlemen, on behalf of Snowpiercer, I would like to welcome Mr. Wilford and his crew aboard."

Wilford: "Thank you. Thank you. Mr. Layton. I look forward to, uh, the Aquarium, First Class Dining, My Nightcar!"

Layton: "[chuckles] I’m afraid we have graver concerns to address today, Mr. Wilford."

Layton: "Concerns that must be address together, as one train. Head engineer Cavill?"

Melanie: "Thank you. [clears throat] [sighs] People of Snowpiercer and Big Alice, the Earth is warming. CW-7 in the upper atmosphere is dissipating. Instead of a 1,000-year timeframe. The planet may create warm spots that could support recolonization in our lifetime. Now… we have a lot to learn. A lot to prepare for. And we have to do it together…"

―  Melanie made an important announcement.

A Great Odyssey

Alex: "Leave once, it’s a decision. Then you leave me twice, and then that becomes a choice."

Melanie: "Yes, I’m choosing to go. But only because there’s not much chance of a world for you if I don’t."

Alex: "Okay, so… what do you wanna know?"

Melanie: "Everything. What do you love to do? Who pierced your ears? Where you sleep? Will you ever laugh?"

―  Melanie told Alex she loves her but she had to go.

Melanie: "It’s a nice bunk."

Alex: "We get to decorate then, but they’re all the same. Except for Wilford’s."

Melanie: "Well, you made it nice. [Looks at the cotton ropes on the wall.]"

Alex: "I use this to visualize our route."

Melanie: "Yeah. Me, too. Same trick."

Alex: "Well, we did have the same teacher. [Picks up a paper] I used to draw you… to picture what you looked like. [Gives it to Melanie.]"

Melanie: "I pictured your face too, all the time."

Alex: "Wilford says you’re the best driver he’s ever seen."

―  Alex shows Melanie her bunk.

Melanie: "Look, I... I think I know what your priorities are."

Layton: "Yeah, you want me to run it by you to see if I got it? Protect the science."

Melanie: "Number one."

Layton: "Yeah, to do that, I'll have to hold off the megalomaniac who created this world and wants to get power back again and has already got some supporters on his side."

Melanie: "Yeah, that's about the size of it."

Layton: "Which leads me to believe that maybe he didn't want anybody to get off this train and recolonize the Earth in the first place."

Melanie: "Just so we're clear, the success of this mission will be measured in data, not my survival. Good luck, Andre."

Layton: "Good luck, Melanie."

―  Melanie and Layton lay out their priorities and say goodbye

Melanie: "You can trust Layton. He's a good man. He's just, and so are you."

Ruth: "Well, good men and women don't seem to stay good long doing this, do they?"

Melanie: "Please promise me you'll look after Alex. I just... I wanna know someone's... there for her. It would mean a lot to me if it was you."

Ruth: "Of course I will. You have my word."

Melanie: "Thank you."

―  Melanie and Ruth say an emotional goodbye

“	Engineer. We'll all be waiting for you right here when you get back.	”
	— Ruth makes Melanie a promise.

Many Miles From Snowpiercer

“	In the Old Time, the future seemed multi-faceted. We had careers, families, personal aspirations, places to go, friends to see, bucket lists. The hum of human dreams we took for granted. But we were sleepwalking. Just one step away from trading all those possible futures for the shared fate of The Freeze.	”
	— Melanie thinking about times before the freeze.

“	Alex? I have the climate model. Allie… [sighs] I tried. I really tried. And I thought this time would be different. I thought I would get back to you. So… please forgive me.	”
	— Melanie crying when Snowpiercer didn't come back to get her on time.

“	You gave up everything for us. For the world. You don’t have to be sorry anymore, not to me. Not to anyone. Snowpiercer couldn’t have made it this far without you, and you and I would never have got this chance.	”
	— Alex's hallucination to Melanie.

Into the White

“	I had nothing here to return to. I'm only human, so of course I used up my resources. Ate my rats to extinction, and the cold crept in. There isn't enough power to keep me alive more than a few hours but on a trickle charge, the drives could last months for you. I knew when the train blew past in sparks and flame, Snowpiercer breaking and Big Alice pushing, that Wilford was sabotaging it all somehow. But you were there in the window, Alex. I knew you'd come back. I can feel your reading this as I write, so now I can put on my helmet and walk into the white at peace. You are my hope, Alex. Learn to love the people that got us this far, and together, one day, you will build a better world.	”
	— Melanie's goodbye letter to Alex.

Season 3

• S3E9
• S3E10

A Beacon for Us All

“	Day 91. Second revolution. 42.85 degrees north, 106.32 degrees west. So... that puts me somewhere outside Casper, Wyoming. Battery is at 57%. Temperature is... Not warm. Still no sign of Snowpiecer. No snow displacement. No change in tracks, which is... Either she isn't rolling anymore, or they're off the mainline. Once I cross the Bering Strait, I'll switch to secondary track, expand my search. Until then, signing off. (...) Day 172. Last of my stimulant's gone. I don't think my body is strong enough to wake from suspension without it. If this is my last entry, it's with thoughts of you, Alex. Outside. In sunlight and warmth.	”
	— Melanie's journals as she travels

Wilford: "Sorry about leaving you to die, I suppose. But you know how things are."

Melanie: "It was great. I got a little me time."

―  Melanie and Wilford reunites.

“	Attention, passengers. This is Melanie Cavil. Tonight, I witnessed a Snowpiercer unlike any I'd seen before. United. Borderless. Free of class and greed. The dream of New Eden made that possible, but a dream left unchecked can be a dangerous thing, and we cannot forget what got us this far. Reason, discipline... And truth. The journey to the Horn of Africa is not safe. The track is unsound. If we knew what we would find when we got there, it might be worth the risk, but we don't. New Eden is a fiction invented by Layton. He and his crew have never been there. He lied to you. It's 8:42 pm and the temperature outside is -98 degrees. Goodnight, Snowpiercer, and long may you roll.	”
	— Melanie betrays Layton and reveals the truth.

The Original Sinners

Alex: "I heard stories about you, About how ruthless you can be."

Melanie: "Can we sit?"

Alex: "Congratulations, mom. Who knew you’d make your move literally right after we saved you."

Melanie: "We have to look at it objectively. If you can’t do that, you’ve lost your ways as an engineer."

Ruth: "Melanie, don’t lose your cool."

Alex: "All I need you to do is speak to Layton before this goes any further."

―  Alex confronting Melanie.

Layton: "Thank you for meeting with me."

Melanie: "I appreciate the opportunity to discuss facts."

Layton: "The fact is, most of us accept the risk."

Melanie: "You never disclosed the risks. You’re putting all our eggs in one basket. The track is not tested."

Layton: "Melanie, take the turn, or the Tail Army will do it for you."

Melanie: "Really? We both know it’s a long march to the Engine."

Tills: " You don’t have the forces to defend."

Melanie: "I can hold you off long enough."

Ruth: "And then what? Endless seesaw battles for control?"

Melanie: " No, we wait. We just wait until we know we’re right."

Alex: "Don’t do that, Mom., Change course. The young people wanna get off."

Melanie: "How can I let you, if it’s not safe? I want you with me."

Alex: "Then you’ll have to take the turn."

Melanie: "[Gets on the sub-train]"

Ruth: "Oh, come on, For pity’s sake. Both of you."

Melanie: "In or out, Ruth"

Ruth: "I’m not letting you go on your own. Hey this isn’t over. Figure something out."

―  Melanie and Ruth trying to figures the way out with Layton, Till and Alex.

Ruth: "Layton took Ag-Sec, without firing a shot. His people stuck with him. He holds all the cards now, Melanie."

Melanie: "Can the Brakemen hold him?"

Ruth: "Roche won’t fight your war. He serves the people. You don’t have the pull you once did, you know."

Melanie: "I need an ally."

Ruth: "Not Wilford."

Melanie: "I can control him."

Ruth: "That’s not the point."

Melanie: " No... The Point. The point is this. [points at Snowpiercer’s blueprint] It’s everything. Every last soul on Earth. It I have to sell mine to protect theirs… so be it, right?"

Ruth: "Well, I’m sorry. But I’ve spent too long redeeming myself to go back now."

―  Ruth says goodbye to Melanie and joins Layton's side.

Wilford: "The problem is, Melanie, you’re a legend. So you do have support. Former Firsties, some guilds, etc. But you’re both militarily outmatched and down in the polls. So, you need me. Two legends are better than one."

Melanie: "I believe if we were seen as united, then the majority of passengers would choose the train, yes."

Wilford: "Well, of course. But it still comes down to fear, Fear of Layton’s colony, or fear of the train that got them this far."

Melanie: "There’s only one way that this works."

Wilford: "[chuckles] Here it comes."

Melanie: " I’m Head Engineer. And you retire from Engineering altogether. It’s my train."

Wilford: "Assuming generous comforts. Meaningful consultation, and if I maintain control of certain interests of mine. Cold treatment, for example."

Melanie: "Assuming all that. And all my shame at cutting a deal with you, if that helps."

Wilford: "Yes. [Both shakes their hands]"

―  Melanie forming alliance with Wilford.

Melanie: "Getting close to the bell, huh?"

Layton: "Yeah, it tolls for you too. Look, this isn't to surrender or to bargain. It's just to acknowledge."

Melanie: "All right. Thanks for letting Alex cross over."

Layton: "It was her choice. And I knew she'd be a double-edged sword."

Melanie: "Yeah. I'll probably lose her by trying to save her."

Layton: "Yeah, we both got enough ego to believe we can save everyone. We set ourselves up in an impossible role."

Melanie: "Once you get the job, it's so hard to let it go."

Layton: "You really wanna let Wilford be a part of that? You're falling right back into using fear to keep order."

Melanie: "You picked up the sword. Right back to shedding blood."

Layton: "Fear or blood?"
Melanie: "And either way... he wins."
Layton: "And we both lose."

―  Melanie and Layton realize that they are only playing into Wilford's hands by refusing to change

Wilford: "This was you, wasn't it Melanie?"

Melanie: "Actually, Andre and I came up with it together. I made it six months in here. There's suspension fluid. Stimulant. Timer. You can only stay under for so long before you have to wake yourself up and figure out where you are."

Wilford: "You're too weak to simply cut my throat, Layton. Cowards. All of you."

―  Wilford is exiled on the Track Scaler by Melanie and Layton.

Melanie: "It's a good way forward."

Layton: "The ones we love, that'll be the cost."

―  Melanie and Layton prepare to move forward

Layton: "Citizens of Snowpiercer, as the fork to New Eden approaches, I am proud to say that we have found a way through our impasse. We agree the only course is compromise, and the answer is individual choice."

Melanie: "The train will be divided at Ag-Sec. Every passenger will be allowed to choose between the train with me and New Eden with Andre Layton."

Layton: "Those who choose New Eden need to understand we don't know what we'll find there. The journey will be dangerous. And, yes, it will require a leap of faith. But more importantly, desire to build a new society."

Melanie: "Those of you who remain, we know that life will continue to be hard on Snowpiercer. Bit by bit, the train is breaking down. But we will no longer add to that hardship with oppression. The train will run on science and truth. And we will share the burden of our limited resources together."

Layton: "Thank you. Whatever your choice, find hope and respect in your neighbor's fate. Talk to your families. Say goodbye to your friends. The train will separate in just under six hours."

―  Layton and Melanie lay out their new plan together.

Melanie: "So how long do you think she will she can keep going?"

Bennett: "If you’re lucky, you hop from crisis to crisis for another decade, maybe two."

Melanie: "I need you, Ben."

Bennett: "I needed you too. I followed your science to the decision of getting off. You nearly killed that"

Melanie: "It’s still alive, It’s just down the line. And if we’re together I know we can get there."

Bennett: "I will serve with you ‘till the end of the world. But that’s only half of it. You want me to stay, I need the rest of you."

Melanie: "I’m here. [sighs] I’m yours."

Bennett: "Then New Eden can wait."

―  Melanie staying on Snowpiercer with Bennett.

Melanie: "Um… I may or may not have put a lot of socks in there. There’s a first aid kit, and my jacket. You probably don’t want it, but it’s the one I survived in."

Alex: "I love you [both sobbing] I have to go. (…) I don’t remember what the Earth is like and I, I wanna find out."

Melanie: "It’s your choice. I’m just so happy that you’re here now."

Alex: "Mom."

Melanie: "Yeah?"

Alex: "The train is falling apart. The track is deteriorating."

Melanie: "You know you don’t have to worry about me, huh? I’m gonna be okay. And you will too. I love you."

Alex: "I love you too."

Melanie: "I love you so much. I’m so proud of you. I’m so sorry I’m so sorry for all the things that I did, I’m so sorry for—"

Alex: "It’s okay. It’s okay."

Melanie: "Okay. Okay. [Both chuckles]."

―  Melanie packing things for Alex.

Melanie: "I guess we're guardians of each other's loved ones now."

Layton: "Well, that gives me hope. I'll take care of her."

Melanie: "I know you will. Good luck, Andre."

Layton: "Godspeed, Melanie."

―  Melanie and Layton say their last goodbyes.

Miles: "Solid numbers. Energy distribution’s improved."

Melanie: "It’s the loss of weight. [To Ben] Can you still see them?"

Bennett: "No, they’ve got weather."

―  Snowpiercer's Engineers in the Engine.

Trivia

• She has spoken the opening dialogue for The Train Demanded Blood, 994 Cars Long, Smolder to Life, Many Miles From Snowpiercer and The Original Sinners. Which makes her the person to spoken the most opening dialogues.
• Melanie attended — and presumably graduated from — MIT. She also wears a Yale Engineering hat suggesting a connection to that university as well.
• Only a limited number of people were aware that Melanie was the mysterious "Mr. Wilford". These were: Bennett Knox, Javier De La Torre, Jinju Seong, Miles, Andre Layton, Josie Wellstead and LJ Folger.
• She designed Snowpiercer and The Engine and according to Melanie herself, is the true visionary behind the train, not Mr. Wilford.
• She was discovered and recognized by Mr. Wilford, giving her a career opportunity. At least Mr. Wilford claims so in The Time of Two Engines.
• Mr. Wilford remarks that Melanie is one of the best drivers he has ever seen.

Gallery

• Season 1
• Season 2