Andrew Lincoln reveals why he choose to leave The Walking Dead

Andrew Lincoln is really leaving The Walking Dead, but the reason won’t be a surprise to fans of the show.

Speaking to EW Radio Andrew Lincoln finally explained why he chose to leave The Walking Dead in season 9. And that reason, which won’t be a shocker to fans, is his family. It was coincidental that the story arc of the show seems to wrap up Rick’s storyline now that Carl is dead. Andy, as fans know, is devoted to his family and the demands of the show take a huge toll on his family life.

Filming for The Walking Dead takes place in Georgia but Andrew Lincoln’s family lives in England. So for most of the year, from May through November, he has to be primarily in Georgia with limited time off when he can return to England to see his family. And since his kids are getting older he would like to spend more time with them while he can.

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It’s easy to see why he’s ready to hang up Rick’s battered cowboy boots after playing Rick Grimes for eight seasons. But, fans will still grieve for the character that many consider the heart of the show. From the very beginning The Walking Dead has been the story or Officer Rick Grimes. First searching for his family, and then trying to keep them safe.

After Lori’s death Carl was his primary reason to carry on. Now that Carl is gone it seems fitting for Rick’s story to come to an end too. The show will go on and there are exciting things coming in season 9 but the first half of season 9 is going to be bittersweet knowing that Rick Grimes will be leaving the narrative of the show.

Family First

Because Rick Grimes is all about family and has sacrificed so much for his family, and for the survivors who become he his family, it’s appropriate that Andy wants to leave to be with his family. Rick Grimes would make the same decision in those circumstances.

Andy said this about leaving The Walking Dead:

"“I have two young children, and I live in a different country, and they become less portable as they get older.” It was that simple. It was time for me to come home.”"

TWD Season 9 Preview Special

Fans can start the grieving process and get a more in-depth look at what’s coming in season 9 of The Walking Dead with The Walking Dead Season 9 Preview Special that airs Sunday, August 5^th on AMC at 9 PM EST.

The week after that Fear The Walking Dead returns and new Fear The Walking Dead episodes will run right up until The Walking Dead season 9 premiere on October 7^th.