Rick Grimes, the iconic leader and moral compass of The Walking Dead, seemingly meets his end in Season 9, Episode 5, titled “What Comes After.” However, the story doesn’t conclude with his on-screen death; instead, it marks his exit from the main series while paving the way for his future appearances in a planned trilogy of films.
Rick’s “Death” in Detail: More Than Meets the Eye
Rick’s apparent demise in “What Comes After” is a pivotal moment in The Walking Dead history. The episode follows Rick, gravely injured after falling from his horse and impaling himself on rebar, as he desperately tries to lead a horde of walkers away from Alexandria, Hilltop, and Oceanside. The episode is characterized by a frantic race against time, fueled by Rick’s determination to protect his family and the communities he helped build. We are offered visions of past characters and moments, a reflection of Rick’s life flashing before his eyes.
Ultimately, Rick sacrifices himself by blowing up the bridge he helped construct, seemingly destroying the horde and himself in the process. His friends and family believe him to be dead. This act of selflessness cements his legacy as a hero.
However, the final scene reveals a crucial detail: Rick is rescued by Jadis/Anne (Pollyanna McIntosh), who calls in a helicopter using the code “A,” indicating he is worth saving. Rick is alive and taken away to an unknown location, setting the stage for his eventual return in the aforementioned films. The show runners cleverly allowed for a character exit without definitively killing him off, allowing the story to continue in another format.
FAQ: Unpacking the Aftermath of Rick’s Departure
Here’s a comprehensive look at frequently asked questions surrounding Rick Grimes’ exit from The Walking Dead, further clarifying his fate and the implications for the series.
H3: Was Rick Grimes Really Dead in Season 9, Episode 5?
No. While his friends and family believed him to be dead after the bridge explosion, the final moments of “What Comes After” clearly show that Rick was rescued by Jadis/Anne and flown away in a helicopter. The helicopter and associated group, known as the Civic Republic Military (CRM), were a shadowy organization with significant resources. Rick was not dead, but he was gone from the main storyline.
H3: Why Did Andrew Lincoln Leave The Walking Dead?
Andrew Lincoln decided to leave The Walking Dead primarily to spend more time with his family in England. The demanding shooting schedule, which required him to be away from his family for extended periods, became increasingly difficult. He felt it was time to prioritize his family life. The decision to leave was made in conjunction with the production team who were able to create the storyline to allow him to leave in a satisfying manner.
H3: What are the Rick Grimes Movies About?
The planned Rick Grimes movies are intended to explore Rick’s experiences after being taken by the CRM. They will delve into the mysteries surrounding the CRM, a powerful and enigmatic organization that plays a significant role in the larger Walking Dead universe. The films promise to reveal more about the CRM’s objectives, their societal structure, and Rick’s role within their framework. The movies will continue Rick’s story, separate from the main series timeline.
H3: Will Rick Grimes Ever Return to The Walking Dead Main Series?
While the possibility of Rick Grimes returning to the main series was discussed by fans and theorized extensively, it never materialized during the series’ remaining seasons. Andrew Lincoln’s focus remained on the films. His ultimate return will be within The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live alongside Michonne.
H3: How Did Rick’s Departure Affect The Walking Dead?
Rick’s departure significantly impacted The Walking Dead. His absence created a leadership void, forcing other characters to step up and take on greater responsibilities. The series explored new dynamics and relationships, shifting the focus to other characters like Daryl, Michonne, and Carol. His departure fundamentally changed the dynamic of the group and the overall narrative structure.
H3: What happened to Michonne after Rick’s disappearance?
Michonne, heartbroken and determined to find Rick, eventually left Alexandria in search of him. Her journey led her to evidence of Rick’s survival and, ultimately, to joining the CRM. This storyline paved the way for her own appearance in The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live, where she reunites with Rick.
H3: Who is the Civic Republic Military (CRM)?
The CRM is a powerful and highly organized military force operating in the Walking Dead universe. They possess advanced technology and significant resources, suggesting a complex society with specific goals. They maintain strict secrecy and operate with a level of authority that often clashes with the established communities. Their presence is a looming threat and a significant player in the wider Walking Dead narrative.
H3: Why did Jadis/Anne save Rick?
Jadis/Anne saved Rick because she saw him as an “A,” a valuable asset according to the CRM’s criteria. In the CRM’s system, “A” designates individuals deemed strong leaders or valuable contributors, while “B” refers to those considered less desirable. By labeling Rick as an “A,” Jadis secured him passage into the CRM system, believing he would be more valuable to them alive.
H3: Did Andrew Lincoln direct any episodes of The Walking Dead?
While Andrew Lincoln did not direct any episodes of The Walking Dead, he expressed interest in directing in the future. His focus remained on his acting role and spending time with his family, but the possibility of directing was something he considered.
H3: Is The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live a continuation of the Rick Grimes movies?
The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live is the continuation of Rick and Michonne’s story, effectively replacing the previously announced film trilogy. The show is considered a definitive resolution to their intertwined fates.
H3: What are the reviews like for The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live?
Early reviews for The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live have been positive, praising the return of Rick and Michonne, the exploration of the CRM, and the overall intensity of the storyline. Critics have lauded the show for its strong performances and its commitment to resolving lingering questions from the main series.
H3: Where can I watch The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live?
The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live is available to stream on AMC+ and airs on the AMC television network. Viewers can access the series through a subscription to AMC+ or by watching it live on AMC.
Conclusion: A Legacy Enduring Beyond the Bridge
While Rick Grimes’ departure from The Walking Dead in Season 9, Episode 5 was a deeply emotional and impactful moment for fans, it was not the end of his story. The episode serves as a powerful testament to his character, his unwavering commitment to his loved ones, and his willingness to sacrifice everything for the greater good. Furthermore, the ongoing adventures of Rick Grimes in The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live ensure that this iconic character continues to resonate with audiences for years to come, solidifying his place in television history. His “death” on the bridge was a turning point, but his story is still being written.