This is my first post here :) I read a few Brett Partridge fans and I'm certain its him.
Before last week I had no idea who it is and then I saw it on here: loads of mini clues left from all Partridge's scenes! But then I look around and see people saying the dozens of clues are all just red herrings and he's an obvious suspect.
Let me tell you this: If this website was not around, and noone posted what they found here, Brett Partridge would not be "obvious," in people's eyes. In fact more than 99% of us would believe he was very likely dead. The only reason so many of us believe, expect and search for clues he's still alive is because of the mini clues passed onto viewers from every other season, and actually, that's why he was always going to be Red John.
So if you see Brett Partridge as "obvious" it's because you've compiled a great list of clues from other people. You didnt figure it out yourself. And when you reason that every single one of these subtle clues are 'red herrings,' you're actually in a psychologically warped state because you've spoiled it for yourself and deep down you regret you've lost the chance to be surprised. Your subconscious then attaches itself very strongly to any reason it won't be Brett Partridge.
Let me tell you: 99% of viewers have no idea of ALL the clues. They may know 1 or 2 about Partridge, but when there's only 1 or 2, and he dies, then of course they believe he's dead. But, as most of you on this site know there are DOZENS of clues, and you know better than most, this is great reason he must be alive.
But here's why you shouldn't despair. It doesn't matter that you know who he is. There's a huge backstory you know almost nothing about. SO BE EXCITED!