Arrow Season 8 Review: 7 Ups & 3 Downs From 'Purgatory'

6. Yao Fei's Return

It wouldn't be a tribute episode to Season 1 without the return of a character specific to the show's debut offering. With that in mind, it's rather fitting that Byron Mann made an epic comeback. Reprising his role as Oliver's mentor Yao Fei, he was there to offer guidance to his former protege - and can we please have a standing ovation for him because he finally made Oliver see that his refusal to change was holding him back.

Fans will remember that Yao Fei was an integral part of the first season, as he taught Oliver the most basic survival instincts and ultimately kick-started the journey that forged him into the multiverse-saving warrior he is today. Though the Emerald Archer isn't a perfect character, he was stronger because of Yao Fei, and it was nice to see the pair share some reflective moments together.

Byron Mann's contribution to the show was much greater than his episode count would have you believing, and this episode was vital in proving that.