The Walking Dead: Norman Reedus little known fact, one of his fears

The Walking Dead’s Norman Reedus has been a show staple playing Daryl Dixon since the third episode of season one, “Tell it to the Frogs.” He came on the scene swearing obscenities at a walker who was munching on a deer he was tracking. His introduction to the series was memorable for sure.

Throughout his years on The Walking Dead, fans have come to know that Reedus is a fascinating and diverse individual. He was cast in his first acting gig because he was yelling off a balcony at a party. He did a collection of roadkill photographs while riding his bike in the backwoods of Georgia. He was a model for many big labels in the 90s, including Prada. Reedus has starred in seven music videos for names like Lady Gaga, R.E.M., Bjork and Radiohead. There are just too many projects to name them all!

Did you know that the man who plays the fearless Daryl Dixon is afraid of a certain animal?

Norman Reedus fears

If you look at a recent post on Norman Reedus’ social media, you will see a BTS photo of Reedus comparing his hair to a co-star’s, who happens to be a horse, which prompted me to share one of his fears. Back in 2020, he interviewed with ABC’s Popcorn with Peter Travers, and he shared one of his fears with the host.

He told Travers that he and horses have never gotten along. Reedus commented on their big eyes and the fact that they can smell your fear and that they are just terrifing. So, early in the series, when he had a scene where he was supposed to ride off on a horse, he suggested he ride on his brother Merle’s (Michael Rooker) bike instead. Problem solved.

He also shared about the time he shot a scene with the iconic Robert Redford for the film The Conspirator. Reedus was supposed to ride his horse, who was trained to go in a single file line. But, the horse decided to go up on two legs while Reedus held on and kept talking. Redford yelled out, directing someone to manage his horse. He was sure that Redford would end up firing him for this. But, if you have watched the film you know that this didn’t happen.

We have seen Daryl interact with horses on the show, and Reedus did a photoshoot held in a horse stable where he was head to head with a horse. So, perhaps after all these years, he has come to an agreement with the animals, even if he is still afraid of them.

While researching this article, I came across the fact that two of Reedus’ books are on sale at his Big Bald Gallery. You are welcome.

Be sure to catch The Walking Dead: Origins “Daryl’s Story” on July 15 as part of the promos for The Walking Dead’s eleventh and final season.