The Walking Dead episode 907: Stradivarius panel discussion

The New Threat On The Horizon

The walkers that are talking we know are The Whisperers, but to the characters, it seems like the walkers are evolving. Could walkers ever really evolve?

Sonya says:

"Anything is possible within The Walking Dead world,  but based on what Dr. Jenner at the CDC showed them about walkers back in season 1 I’d say no, it’s not possible. Only the brain stem comes back not the parts of the brain that do actual thinking or feeling. And since their bodies and brains continue to deteriorate over time it really wouldn’t be possible for them to evolve to the point of having the ability to think or speak."

Sara says:

"Honestly, they might be able to. I just don’t think that is the case here. I’m sure the midseason finale will give us more insight into that."

Jeffrey says:

"I feel like it is possible for walkers to evolve, but changes would occur over a long period of time. The main story is now about 10-11 years into the apocalypse, so it would make sense for there to be some slight changes to how walkers operate. That being said, I don’t think it would make much sense for all of the rules that we know about them to change that quickly. I think it would be interesting for a future story in the TWD Universe to explore this, specifically one set decades into the apocalypse."

Sarabeth says:

"I’ve often wondered if evolution was possibly for creatures that are dead. I think the answer lies in whatever disease caused the outbreak. Just as germs become resistant to antibiotics and hand sanitizers and the like. Over time, perhaps the disease will change and make it so people who are bitten change in a different way, or only partially change. I think it’s possible, but it’s probably too soon."