Rick Grimes’ final episode on The Walking Dead, Season 9, Episode 5, titled “What Comes After,” marked a pivotal turning point for the series. This episode served as Andrew Lincoln’s departure, seemingly killing off Rick in a heroic sacrifice while subtly hinting at his survival and a future beyond the main storyline.
A Hero’s “Death”: The Central Narrative of “What Comes After”
“What Comes After” is a rollercoaster of emotion and action. The episode seamlessly blends fragmented flashbacks with Rick’s desperate struggle for survival after being impaled in the previous episode. Hallucinations of Shane, Hershel, and Sasha serve as poignant moments of reflection on his journey and the sacrifices he’s made. His ultimate goal is to lead the walker horde away from Alexandria and the other communities.
The episode culminates in Rick blowing up the bridge, seemingly sacrificing himself to protect his family and friends. This act is presented as his ultimate act of heroism, solidifying his legacy as the leader who always put others before himself. However, the final moments reveal that Rick survives the explosion, albeit severely wounded. He is discovered by Jadis, who radios for help and is subsequently flown away in a helicopter with him, leaving his fate uncertain.
Deconstructing the Symbolism and Impact
The episode’s title, “What Comes After,” is deeply symbolic. It refers not only to the immediate aftermath of Rick’s “death” but also to the future of the communities he built. It suggests a world without his direct leadership, forcing the remaining characters to step up and define their own destinies.
The use of flashbacks serves to highlight Rick’s evolution as a character. From the hardened sheriff’s deputy to the battle-scarred leader grappling with his own morality, his journey is presented as a complex and compelling narrative. The return of Shane, Hershel, and Sasha allows Rick (and the audience) to confront his past actions and the consequences they had.
The bridge itself becomes a powerful symbol of unity and progress. Rick’s initial vision was to connect the communities and create a thriving future. His “sacrifice” in destroying the bridge is a bittersweet moment, signifying both the potential loss of that vision and the ultimate protection of his people. The impact of Rick’s apparent death is felt deeply within the communities, forcing them to navigate a new era of leadership and self-reliance.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into Rick Grimes’ Departure
FAQ 1: Why did Andrew Lincoln leave The Walking Dead?
Andrew Lincoln’s departure stemmed primarily from a desire to spend more time with his family in the UK. Filming the show in Atlanta required long periods away from home, and he felt it was time to prioritize his family life. He also expressed a desire to explore other acting opportunities.
FAQ 2: Was Rick Grimes actually killed off in “What Comes After”?
While the episode strongly suggests Rick’s death, the final scenes reveal he survived. This was a deliberate move by the showrunners to leave the door open for future appearances, which ultimately manifested in the announcement of The Walking Dead movie trilogy.
FAQ 3: What happened to Rick after he was taken away in the helicopter?
The events following Rick’s rescue are explored in the upcoming The Walking Dead movies. He is believed to have been taken to a location controlled by the Civic Republic Military (CRM), a powerful and enigmatic organization hinted at throughout the series.
FAQ 4: What is the CRM and what role do they play in Rick’s story?
The CRM is a highly organized and secretive military force with advanced technology and unknown motives. They represent a significant power player in the post-apocalyptic world. Jadis’s connection to the CRM suggests they have been observing the communities and potentially influencing events from behind the scenes. Their involvement in Rick’s rescue indicates a crucial role in his future story.
FAQ 5: How did Jadis (Anne) know about the CRM and their helicopters?
Jadis had established a relationship with the CRM, exchanging people for supplies and access to their resources. She possessed a code to contact them, classifying individuals as “A’s” or “B’s.” Rick was classified as a “B,” which seemingly made him a suitable candidate for rescue by the CRM.
FAQ 6: How did Rick manage to survive the explosion?
While the explosion was significant, Rick was likely far enough away to avoid the full force of the blast. The CRM helicopter arrived relatively quickly after the explosion, suggesting Jadis was already prepared for his extraction. He was, however, severely wounded, making the CRM’s intervention critical for his survival.
FAQ 7: Will we ever see Rick Grimes return to The Walking Dead universe?
Andrew Lincoln is set to reprise his role as Rick Grimes in The Walking Dead movies. The timing and specific plot details of these movies remain largely unknown, but they will presumably delve into Rick’s experiences with the CRM. Given the end of the main series, it is unlikely he will return to it, as his story will be told in the movies.
FAQ 8: How did Rick’s departure affect the remaining characters and the overall storyline?
Rick’s departure had a profound impact on the remaining characters. It forced them to confront their own leadership abilities and forge a new path forward without his direct guidance. This resulted in significant character development for individuals like Daryl, Michonne, and Carol. The storyline shifted towards a new dynamic of community leadership and the emergence of new threats.
FAQ 9: What are the fan theories surrounding Rick’s return and his role in the Walking Dead universe?
Fan theories abound regarding Rick’s potential role in the Walking Dead universe. Some speculate that he will lead a rebellion against the CRM, while others believe he will become a key figure in uniting different communities against a common threat. The movies are expected to reveal his ultimate destiny. Theories often centre around him reuniting with his family, including Michonne and Judith.
FAQ 10: How does “What Comes After” compare to other character departure episodes in The Walking Dead?
“What Comes After” is arguably one of the most impactful and controversial character departure episodes in The Walking Dead. Unlike many character deaths, Rick’s “death” was ultimately a fake-out, leaving fans with a sense of both relief and anticipation. The episode’s emotional weight and narrative complexity distinguish it from other departures in the series.
FAQ 11: What lasting legacy has Rick Grimes left on The Walking Dead?
Rick Grimes remains one of the most iconic and beloved characters in The Walking Dead. His unwavering commitment to his family and friends, his struggle with morality, and his leadership qualities have left a lasting impact on the series. He represents hope and resilience in a brutal and unforgiving world. He will always be remembered for his mantra, “We are the walking dead.”
FAQ 12: Where can I watch “What Comes After” and other episodes of The Walking Dead?
The Walking Dead and “What Comes After” are available for streaming on AMC+, Netflix (depending on your region), and through various digital retailers like Amazon Prime Video and iTunes. Check local listings and streaming services for availability in your specific region.
A Legacy Continues: Beyond “What Comes After”
While “What Comes After” ostensibly marked the end of Rick Grimes’ journey on The Walking Dead series, it simultaneously opened a new chapter in his story. His “death” served as a catalyst for change within the communities, while his subsequent rescue and involvement with the CRM promise to unveil a broader and more complex narrative in the upcoming movies. Rick Grimes’ legacy extends far beyond the bridge he seemingly destroyed, shaping the future of The Walking Dead universe for years to come.