Glenn Rhee, a beloved character from the very beginning of AMC’s The Walking Dead, met his tragic end in Season 7, Episode 1, titled “The Day Will Come When You Won’t Be.” This episode marked a turning point in the series, forever altering the dynamics of the group and leaving a lasting impact on viewers.
The Horror of “The Day Will Come When You Won’t Be”
The episode picks up directly after the agonizing cliffhanger of Season 6’s finale, which saw Negan introduce himself and brutally beat someone from Rick’s group to death. The uncertainty surrounding Negan’s victim fueled months of speculation and anticipation. However, the confirmation that Glenn was one of the two victims (along with Abraham Ford) sent shockwaves through the fan base.
Negan’s reign of terror was firmly established in this episode. The savagery of his actions, particularly the prolonged and agonizing nature of Glenn’s death, served as a stark reminder of the new world order. Glenn’s final words, a whispered “Maggie, I’ll find you,” cemented his legacy as a loyal, loving, and ultimately selfless character. The episode’s impact was profound, igniting both praise for its unflinching portrayal of brutality and criticism for its perceived excessive violence.
The Aftermath and Lasting Impact
Glenn’s death served as a catalyst for much of the story that followed. Maggie’s grief and subsequent journey to Hilltop, and Rick’s subjugation under Negan, were all directly linked to the events of that devastating night. Glenn’s memory continued to influence the characters’ decisions and motivations, even long after his physical presence was gone.
The episode itself remains one of the most talked-about and controversial in the entire series. Its graphic depiction of violence sparked a debate about the show’s boundaries and the responsibility it held to its audience. Regardless of individual opinions, “The Day Will Come When You Won’t Be” remains a significant and unforgettable chapter in The Walking Dead saga.
Frequently Asked Questions About Glenn’s Death
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Glenn Rhee’s death in The Walking Dead:
What season and episode does Glenn die?
As previously stated, Glenn dies in Season 7, Episode 1: “The Day Will Come When You Won’t Be.”
Who killed Glenn?
Negan, wielding his infamous baseball bat Lucille, is the one who kills Glenn.
Why did Negan kill Glenn?
While Negan initially intended to only kill one person, Daryl’s act of aggression towards Negan prompted him to kill a second as punishment. Glenn was chosen as the second victim, solidifying Negan’s authority and demonstrating the consequences of defiance.
What were Glenn’s last words?
Glenn’s last words, spoken to his wife Maggie, were “Maggie, I’ll find you.”
Was Glenn’s death in the show similar to the comic books?
Yes, Glenn’s death in the show closely mirrors his death in The Walking Dead comic book series. The scene is virtually identical, including the dialogue and the brutality of the act. The major difference is that Abraham also dies in the show, which he does not in the comic.
How did Maggie react to Glenn’s death?
Maggie was understandably devastated by Glenn’s death. Her grief fueled her determination to survive and ultimately led her to become a strong leader at Hilltop. Glenn’s memory inspired her leadership and her commitment to building a better future for their unborn child.
Did Glenn and Maggie ever have a child?
Yes, Maggie was pregnant with Glenn’s child at the time of his death. She later gave birth to a son, whom she named Hershel, after her father.
Did Steven Yeun, the actor who played Glenn, want to leave the show?
There is no public record of Steven Yeun wanting to leave The Walking Dead at that time. His departure was a narrative choice made by the show’s writers and producers to align with the comic book storyline and to establish Negan as a formidable threat.
How did fans react to Glenn’s death?
The fan reaction to Glenn’s death was incredibly strong. Many viewers expressed outrage and sadness, with some even vowing to stop watching the show due to the graphic nature of the scene and the loss of such a beloved character. The episode sparked a significant debate about the show’s use of violence and its impact on the audience.
Was Abraham supposed to be the only one to die?
Initially, it appeared that Abraham would be Negan’s only victim. However, Daryl’s impulsive punch led to Negan escalating the situation, resulting in Glenn’s death as well. Abraham’s death was part of the comic book storyline, but Glenn’s was, in a way, accelerated by Daryl’s actions.
What impact did Glenn’s death have on Rick?
Glenn’s death had a profound impact on Rick. It broke his spirit and forced him to submit to Negan’s rule. Rick witnessed the brutal murder of his friend and was powerless to stop it. This experience profoundly changed him and set the stage for his eventual rebellion against Negan.
How long did it take for Maggie to recover from Glenn’s death?
Maggie never truly “recovered” from Glenn’s death, but she did learn to live with the pain and channel her grief into building a better future for Hershel and the community at Hilltop. His memory continued to motivate her throughout the series, influencing her decisions and her dedication to survival. Her transformation into a leader was directly fueled by the loss she experienced.