Norman Reedus shares how long he expects to portray Daryl Dixon in The Walking Dead universe

Daryl Dixon actor Norman Reedus was recently interviewed by Mr. Feelgood. In the interview, he discusses motorcycles, his role in The Bikeriders, and the longevity of Daryl Dixon.

Reedus' most recent project, The Bikeriders, is a movie directed by Jeff Nichols that focuses on Midwestern motorcycle club culture in the 1960s. His role as Funny Sonny is based on an actual Chicago Outlaws Motorcycle club member featured in Danny Lyons' photobook, from which the film drew inspiration. The movie has received rave reviews for cast performances and Nichols' direction and authenticity. The Bikeriders also stars Jodie Comer, Austin Butler, Tom Hardy, Michael Shannon, and Mike Faist. Reedus shared some BTS photos of his character on social media.

In the interview, he was asked about his love affair with motorcycles. For Reedus, his love began at a very young age when he would ride his BMX Mongoose. He rode to escape and be alone, eventually leading to riding motorcycles, allowing him to experience freedom and a sense of control.

"When I was really little, I used to have a little BMX Mongoose, and I used to ride that for miles. It was a way to get away from my house and get away from any sort of trauma that I was going through. It was an escape thing for me, and to feel like I was in control of something. So that turned into motorcycles, and it’s kind of the same thing. You’re by yourself, nobody can bother you, you can’t answer the phone, it’s just this sense of freedom. You can smell the town you’re riding through, feel the wind on your face, but feel the motor below you. It’s not like riding a horse to me, I’m terrified of horses. It’s a controlled freedom."

- Norman Reedus - Mr. Feelgood

Norman Reedus - The Walking Dead

Reedus auditioned for Merle Dixon, a role in which Michael Rooker was cast. The series producers were so impressed with Reedus that Daryl was created specifically for him. Daryl would first appear in the first season's third episode, "Tell It to the Frogs." He came on the scene as the stereotypical redneck, shouting profanities in his Southern American accent. Throughout this eleven-year run on The Walking Dead, Daryl experienced a drastic transformation from loner to leader.

The actor has always made it clear that his dedication to the role is for the long haul. When fans of Daryl's began the "If Daryl dies, we riot" campaign, Reedus responded that he would light the first match. In the recent interview, he was asked how long he sees himself continuing the role. He replied, "I think maybe six or seven more years."

This is exciting news for fans of Reedus and the character, who, after the conclusion of the main series in 2022, began a new journey in a spinoff, The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon. The spinoff has allowed Reedus to continue Daryl's story but with a new direction. Set and filmed in France, the spinoff gives a glimpse into how another part of the world has faired since the outbreak. This is a project Reedus was excited about because he didn't want to just redo the original series.

The second season of the series, subtitled The Book of Carol, will premiere on AMC on September 29. This installment will see the return of Carol Peletier, portrayed by Melissa McBride. Fans are eager to see her return and the reunion of Carol and Daryl, who have been the best of friends for years.

The Daryl Dixon series has been renewed for a third season, and Reedus has stated that it will also have a fourth. Filming for the additional seasons will move to Spain.

Be sure to check out Mr. Feelgood's insightful interview with Norman Reedus.

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