Spoilers ahead for The Walking Dead! It’s no secret that Andrew Lincoln was leaving AMC’s popular zombie apocalypse series The Walking Dead. Lincoln revealed earlier this year that he would be departing the show in its ninth season and leaving behind his most famous role, Rick Grimes.
The death of Rick was rumored extensively until his exit on Sunday’s fifth episode which still leaves the audience asking ‘what next?’ TWD fans are still unsure of the show’s future and it’s no surprise that ratings have dropped since the mention of the protagonist small-town sheriff would be leaving us.
In a recent interview with The New York Times, Lincoln states:
“I can categorically say that I will not be returning to the TV show.”
It stings doesn’t it? However all is not lost!
The Walking Dead producer Scott Gimple revealed that there will be three TV movies in which Rick will return, continuing his story where he left off. Author of the show Robert Kirkman will also be ‘heavily involved’ in the writing *schoolgirl squeals*
Filming is thought to begin in 2019 so we’re looking at a release either later in the year or not until 2020 at least. Andrew adds,
“It was a compromise because I didn’t want to be disingenuous to fans, but then of course, I didn’t want to give away the story. But yes. I’m very relieved I can talk about it now.”
We all read the cast’s heart felt messages to Andrew on the news of his departure but they won’t be missing him too much as it’s reported that he’ll be returning to TWD set next year to learn some directing pointers to direct his own episode for season 10!
A man of many talents (and lives).
What do you think of this news regarding The Walking Dead? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!