The Walking Dead: Top 100 Moments

76. Otis Shoots Carl

Episode 201, “What Lies Ahead”

Original Airdate: 10/16/2011

Submitted by: Adam Carlson

Long before the season 6 cliffhanger where fans were left wondering if Glenn Rhee was alive or dead, fans were left wondering about the fate of Carl at the end of the first episode of season 2.

While out looking for Sophia who was lost during a horde of walkers surprised the group on the highway, Carl, Rick, and Shane came across a clearing on the opposite side of the woods. Carl was stunned by the beauty of a deer standing alone, marveling the animal. Shane prepared to shoot the deer for food, but Rick stopped him and the two men watched the smiling boy enjoying nature.

Just then, a shot rang out. Both the deer and Carl dropped the the ground. Blood started to pour from the boy’s chest as the season 2 premiere came to an end.

Thankfully, this was not the end of Carl. When the next episode aired, it was revealed that Carl was still alive and was shot by Otis, a survivor from the Greene family farm who was hunting for some food. Thinking quickly, Rick scooped Carl up in his arms and Otis led Rick and Shane to meet Hershel Greene, a veterinarian with the skills to save the child’s life.