Glenn Rhee, a beloved character on The Walking Dead, met his brutal end in the season 7 premiere. He died in “The Day Will Come When You Won’t Be” (Season 7, Episode 1), a scene forever etched in the memories of fans.
The Episode: A Brutal Beginning to Season 7
A Pivotal Moment in the Series
“The Day Will Come When You Won’t Be” served as a harsh introduction to Negan and his reign of terror. The episode immediately followed the cliffhanger ending of Season 6, where Negan held Rick’s group captive, teasing the audience about which character would be the victim of his barbed-wire bat, Lucille. The anticipation was excruciating, and the payoff was undeniably devastating.
Glenn’s Final Moments
After Abraham Ford was brutally beaten to death by Negan, Daryl Dixon lashed out in anger, leading Negan to lash out further. In a shocking and heartbreaking turn of events, Negan turned his attention to Glenn. His death was particularly gruesome, as Negan repeatedly struck Glenn in the head with Lucille, leaving him virtually unrecognizable. In his final moments, Glenn managed to utter a heartbreaking final line to Maggie: “Maggie, I’ll find you.” This solidified the devastating impact of his loss, not only on the characters within the show, but also on the viewers who had grown to love Glenn over the years.
Why Glenn’s Death Matters
Glenn’s death marked a significant turning point for The Walking Dead. It signaled a shift in the power dynamic, illustrating the true extent of Negan’s control and the helplessness of Rick’s group. Glenn wasn’t just any character; he was often considered the moral compass of the group, the embodiment of hope and compassion in a world overrun by brutality. His death underscored the harsh reality of the post-apocalyptic world and the immense loss experienced by the surviving characters, particularly Maggie, his wife.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Glenn’s Death
FAQ 1: Was Glenn’s death exactly the same as in the comic book?
While the core event – Glenn’s death at the hands of Negan with Lucille – remains consistent between the show and the comic book source material, there are some subtle differences. The visual presentation and the specific dialogue differ, but the overall impact and emotional weight of the scene are largely the same. The showrunners aimed to stay true to the pivotal comic book moment while adapting it for the screen.
FAQ 2: Why did the showrunners choose to kill off Glenn?
The showrunners stated that Glenn’s death was necessary to drive the narrative forward and establish Negan as a formidable and terrifying antagonist. They also argued that it was a crucial moment for Maggie’s character development, pushing her to become a strong and capable leader. While controversial, the decision was made to stay true to the comic book and to impact the show’s storyline significantly.
FAQ 3: Did Steven Yeun, the actor who played Glenn, want to leave the show?
No, Steven Yeun did not express a desire to leave The Walking Dead. He understood the importance of Glenn’s death in the overall narrative and accepted the storyline. However, he has spoken openly about the challenges of filming such a graphic and emotional scene.
FAQ 4: What was the fan reaction to Glenn’s death?
The fan reaction to Glenn’s death was overwhelmingly negative and controversial. Many viewers felt the scene was excessively violent and gratuitous. Some criticized the showrunners for drawing out the anticipation over who would die and for the graphic nature of the death itself. Many viewers felt the scene was exploitative.
FAQ 5: How did Glenn’s death affect Maggie’s character arc?
Glenn’s death served as a major catalyst for Maggie’s character development. She transformed from a supportive partner into a fierce and independent leader. She took on leadership roles in both Hilltop and later on, even challenged Rick’s authority at times. Glenn’s memory became a driving force behind her actions and decisions.
FAQ 6: Did Glenn’s death impact the overall ratings of The Walking Dead?
While The Walking Dead continued to be a popular show after Glenn’s death, some argue that the graphic violence and controversial decision led to a decline in viewership over time. Many viewers cited the overly brutal nature of Negan’s introduction as a reason for abandoning the series. The brutality was hard to watch for many.
FAQ 7: Besides Maggie, how did Glenn’s death affect the other characters?
Glenn’s death profoundly affected Rick and the rest of the group. It shattered their sense of security and demonstrated the true power of Negan. It also instilled a sense of fear and uncertainty, forcing them to re-evaluate their strategies and alliances. The loss highlighted the fragility of life in their apocalyptic world.
FAQ 8: Was there any controversy surrounding the way Glenn’s death was filmed?
Yes, there was considerable controversy surrounding the graphic nature of Glenn’s death and the extended period of anticipation leading up to it. Some viewers felt that the show exploited violence for shock value and that the focus on gore overshadowed the emotional impact of the loss.
FAQ 9: Are there any flashbacks or mentions of Glenn in later seasons of The Walking Dead?
Yes, Glenn is frequently mentioned and appears in flashbacks throughout subsequent seasons of The Walking Dead. His memory serves as a constant reminder of the sacrifices made and the stakes involved in their fight for survival.
FAQ 10: How did Glenn’s death compare to other major character deaths in The Walking Dead?
Glenn’s death is often considered one of the most impactful and memorable deaths in The Walking Dead, primarily because of the character’s popularity and the brutal manner in which he died. While other characters have suffered tragic fates, Glenn’s death served as a watershed moment, defining the era of Negan’s dominance.
FAQ 11: What was Glenn’s legacy on The Walking Dead?
Glenn’s legacy extends beyond his individual character. He represented hope, compassion, and selflessness in a brutal world. He was a symbol of resilience and a reminder that even in the darkest of times, humanity can still prevail. His bravery and kind-heartedness inspired others and left an indelible mark on the survivors. He was truly the heart of the group.
FAQ 12: Where can I watch “The Day Will Come When You Won’t Be”?
“The Day Will Come When You Won’t Be” (Season 7, Episode 1) is available for streaming on various platforms, including AMC+, Netflix (depending on your region), and for purchase on digital platforms such as Amazon Prime Video and iTunes. Check your local listings for availability. Remember that streaming options may vary based on your location and subscription services.