Season Nine of The Walking Dead is a month away! What can we expect this season with Rick Grimes officially exiting? Let’s take a look!
Rumors were put to rest at SDCC this year as Andy Lincoln confirmed his exit from the zombie drama, but there’s still a lot we need to discuss beyond if it will live on without him.
Season Nine will feature two time jumps. One at the beginning of the season, so we can skip those pesky episodes that show actual character growth, and one after Rick’s death. That’s my guess on the second time jump. Beyond that, we know the Whisperers will make their debut. They’re the ones who wear walker skin and try to blend into their surroundings. They also like to kill people and shove their heads on spikes, so there’s that to look forward to.
Other things we can anticipate?
Carol has finally found love with Ezekiel, and I AM SO HAPPY. I wanted this ship to happen from season seven, and I’m getting my wish. Those two compliment each other so well, and with all the shit Carol has gone through in life, she deserves someone who is loyal and supportive like Ezekiel. Just look at her smile! Add in the fact that Daryl approves, and it’s wonderful all around.
Another aspect of the show that will cause some strife is Saviors who are still loyal to Negan. Last season, Negan killed everyone loyal to Simon because he knew that if he let them live, they would eventually come for him. Rick didn’t do this. In fact, he went the opposite direction entirely. He didn’t kill his enemy, Negan, or his followers. They’ll bide their time, but they’ll make their move.
Loyalties to Negan aren’t the only thing hanging around. Some people will remain loyal to Rick, but we have to look out for Maggie making her move, too. She’ll try and avenge Glenn’s death, and she has every right to do that. It will put a wedge between Rick and Daryl, though. They have different approaches to surviving now. Daryl doesn’t feel that surviving as a huge group is a good option, but Rick is holding to Carl’s vision that they can all survive together.
Watching these core characters come together before Rick’s death (or departure) will be very interesting to say the least.
What do you think will happen this season? Are you looking forward to a world without Rick Grimes or do you think The Walking Dead will meet its end?
You can take a look at the official character posters for season nine HERE from EW, and other stills from episode one of season nine below! Especially the smirky picture of Norman Reedus. That’s the best.
The Walking Dead will premiere on October 7 at 9/8c on AMC.