The Walking Dead series wouldn’t be the same without its leader Rick Grimes (Andrew Lincoln). He set the story’s tone and served as a great leader from seasons 1-9. Viewers know that he didn’t die in season 9, but only a handful of characters are privy to this information. Four years ago today, November 4, 2018, was the final episode of the series to feature Rick Grimes.
“What Comes Afer” was the fifth episode of season 9 and would mark the final appearance of Rick Grimes. In a heroic move, he would sacrifice himself to save those he loves. But he would soon be discovered along the river by Jadis (Pollyanna McIntosh) and taken away in a helicopter to the Civic Republic.
This was a devastating loss for his family. Whether he made the right or wrong decisions, Rick was an impressive leader willing to do whatever it took to ensure his family’s safety.
The Walking Dead without Rick Grimes
The series has continued for two more seasons, and Rick’s absence is noted. No one character has really taken his place as leader, but several of our survivors have definitely taken a leadership role in his absence.
His wife Michonne (Dania Gurira) left in search of her lost love when she discovered he didn’t die in the blast at the bridge. His daughter Judith (Cailey Fleming) also knows her father didn’t die, but his son RJ (Antony Azor) has never met his father, and his father isn’t aware of his existence. Will fans ever see a reunion between the father and his children?
Fans were treated to a pleasant surprise during the series’ final episode, “Rest in Peace,” on Nov. 20, 2022.
After the main story closes, the screen goes black, and the next thing viewers see are fires being lit, then Rick Grimes and Michonne appear. It was an amazing scene and a fantastic way to bring the main series full circle by beginning and ending with Rick.
Rick and Michonne will star in a spinoff series of their own titled Summit. The series begins filming in February 2023 and has a projected release in 2024.
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