Paradox

When trying to prevent Charlie's murder, Hiro suddenly and unexpectedly returns to the present.

In the context of Heroes, a paradox is a situation created by time travel which is logically inconsistent. The classic example is travelling back in time and killing your own father before your conception, thereby preventing your own birth: if you were never born, how could you go back to prevent your birth?

About

Seven Minutes to Midnight

Hiro Nakamura meets Charlie Andrews at the Burnt Toast Diner in Midland, TX. The two become friends quickly, but Sylar kills Charlie while Hiro is visiting the restroom. Hiro decides to go back in time to prevent the murder.

Six Months Ago

When Hiro seems to be on the verge of taking Charlie on a trip that will keep her from being present at the diner on the date of her murder, he suddenly and unwillingly moves forward in time. Although he tries repeatedly to go back and save her, he is unable to do so.

Notes

• Charlie was still murdered by Sylar at the diner, but certain historical details changed. For instance, Hiro appeared in a photograph of Charlie's birthday party on the wall, which he did not appear in before going back in time.
• The incident suggests that Hiro cannot use his space-time manipulation powers to cause a paradox; he could not eliminate his original reason for going back in time.
• From a story-telling standpoint, establishing this limit on Hiro's powers helps sustain suspense, as it keeps Hiro from going back in time to reverse every possible setback.

Gallery

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  Hiro travels back in time to save Charlie.
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  Hiro accidentally arrives six months earlier than planned.
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  Charlie's birthday photo before Hiro's rescue attempt.
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  Charlie's birthday photo after Hiro's rescue attempt.

Fan Theories

Please refer to Theory:Paradox for fan-created theories and other speculation.