The Walking Dead: The symbolism behind Carol’s hair, explained

Melissa McBride as Carol Peletier - The Walking Dead _ Season 9, Episode 6 - Photo Credit: Gene Page/AMC
Melissa McBride as Carol Peletier - The Walking Dead _ Season 9, Episode 6 - Photo Credit: Gene Page/AMC /
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Carol’s hair in season 9 has been a major topic of discussion for The Walking Dead fans, and in “Omega” Henry reveals why her hair holds a special meaning.

As soon as photos emerged showing Carol’s long hair in season 9, The Walking Dead fans wondered why she decided to grow her hair during the time jump. Many people speculated that the decision was much more than a visual aid to depict the passage of time, and after “Omega” the audience learns the reason that Carol’s hair is as long as it is.

It’s all about being safe.

Henry, frustrated by Daryl’s behavior toward Lydia, uses his mom’s hair as a way to explain why the girl in the cell is so frightened. He tells Daryl that his father Ezekiel wanted to know why Carol kept her hair short, and the answer is that her ex-husband Ed used to grab her by the hair when he flew into a rage. Keeping her hair short prevented him from being able to grab her.

The fact that Carol feels comfortable enough to grow her hair is symbolic of how she’s feeling. Though the Kingdom is currently dealing with some issues, Carol herself is in a good place. She’s happy in her marriage and she’s content with her family. Henry is growing up, Daryl is back in her life and things seem to be going well ahead of the big fair that the Kingdom is planning.

Carol’s contentment is destined to be short lived, however, because she has no idea that the Whisperers killed Jesus and have marched on the Hilltop, where her son lives.

Next. The Walking Dead 910 recap: Omega. dark

Needless to say, when Carol finds out that the Hilltop is under siege, she’s not going to take this news lightly. Things might have been peaceful over the past few years, but Carol has never been one to shrink from a fight. And when Carol goes after Alpha, expect fireworks.

The Walking Dead airs Sundays at 9pm on AMC.