Glenn Rhee, a beloved character on AMC’s The Walking Dead, met his tragic end in Season 7, Episode 1, titled “The Day Will Come When You Won’t Be.” His brutal and iconic death sent shockwaves through the fanbase, marking a pivotal moment in the series. This article dissects the circumstances surrounding his demise, explores its impact, and answers frequently asked questions about this devastating event.
The Day Will Come When You Won’t Be: A Deeper Look
The episode, “The Day Will Come When You Won’t Be,” is infamous for its graphic violence and the introduction of Negan, played by Jeffrey Dean Morgan, as the primary antagonist. Negan, wielding his baseball bat Lucille, covered in barbed wire, forces Rick Grimes’ group to kneel before him after a lengthy and suspenseful chase. The episode served not only as the resolution to a major cliffhanger from the Season 6 finale but also as a demonstration of Negan’s power and control.
Choosing the Victims: A Horrifying Game
Negan’s initial intention was to punish Rick for his group’s attacks on the Saviors. He decides to choose someone at random, using the “eeny, meeny, miny, moe” rhyme to select his victim. The tension is excruciating as the camera pans across the terrified faces of Rick, Michonne, Daryl, Glenn, Abraham, and others. Initially, Abraham Ford is chosen and brutally beaten to death.
Glenn’s Sacrifice: A Moment of Unforgettable Horror
In a horrifying turn of events, after Daryl Dixon lashes out at Negan, Negan, infuriated, decides to kill another member of the group. This time, Glenn Rhee is chosen. In his final moments, despite his grievous injuries, Glenn manages to utter “Maggie, I’ll find you,” a poignant testament to his unwavering love for his wife. The scene is notoriously graphic, depicting the full extent of Lucille’s damage, and remains one of the most controversial and talked-about moments in The Walking Dead history.
The Impact of Glenn’s Death on the Show
Glenn’s death had a profound impact on the storyline and the remaining characters.
Rick’s Broken Spirit
Witnessing Glenn’s murder, along with Abraham’s, broke Rick’s spirit and forced him to submit to Negan’s rule. This act of brutal dominance served as a catalyst for Rick’s eventual rebellion and the subsequent war against the Saviors.
Maggie’s Resilience
Maggie Greene, Glenn’s pregnant wife, was devastated by his death. However, she channeled her grief into strength, becoming a formidable leader and a vital figure in the communities’ resistance against Negan. She carries Glenn’s legacy with her, naming their son after him.
Fan Reaction and Controversy
Glenn’s death sparked significant controversy among viewers. Many felt the graphic nature of the scene was excessive and gratuitous. Some even criticized the show for its use of shock value and the emotional toll it took on the audience. Despite the controversy, the episode remains a pivotal point in the narrative, marking a clear shift in the power dynamics of the Walking Dead universe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Glenn’s death and its significance:
1. Why did the show decide to kill off Glenn?
The decision to kill off Glenn stemmed from the comics, where Glenn is also killed by Negan in a similar manner. The showrunners wanted to remain faithful to the source material and use Glenn’s death as a significant turning point in the storyline, mirroring its impact in the comics. This was intended to emphasize the brutality of Negan and the severity of the situation facing Rick and his group.
2. Was Glenn’s death necessary for the plot?
Whether Glenn’s death was necessary is subjective. From a narrative perspective, it served as a powerful catalyst for character development, particularly for Rick and Maggie. It also firmly established Negan as a credible and terrifying threat. However, many argue that the same impact could have been achieved with less graphic violence or by killing a different character.
3. How did Steven Yeun (Glenn) react to his character’s death?
Steven Yeun acknowledged that he knew his character’s death was coming, given its presence in the comics. He expressed a mixture of sadness and relief, stating that he was ready to move on to new projects. He also noted the significance of Glenn’s death in showcasing the brutality of the world and the sacrifices the characters had to make.
4. Was the episode’s violence excessive?
The level of violence in “The Day Will Come When You Won’t Be” was a significant point of contention. Many viewers felt that the extended and graphic depiction of Glenn and Abraham’s deaths crossed a line, contributing to the episode’s divisive reception. Others argued that it effectively conveyed the brutality of Negan and the dangers of the Walking Dead world.
5. Did Glenn’s death affect the show’s ratings?
While the episode itself garnered high ratings due to the anticipation surrounding the cliffhanger, the long-term effect of Glenn’s death on the show’s ratings is debated. Some believe it contributed to a gradual decline in viewership, as some viewers were turned off by the violence and the loss of a beloved character. Others argue that the decline was due to other factors, such as changing viewing habits and increasing competition from streaming services.
6. How did Glenn’s death differ from the comics?
While the general circumstances of Glenn’s death were similar in the comics and the TV show, there were some key differences. The comics featured a slightly less graphic depiction of the event. Additionally, the emotional impact on Maggie was arguably more pronounced in the comics, as she had more time to grieve and process his loss.
7. What was the significance of Glenn’s last words?
Glenn’s final words, “Maggie, I’ll find you,” were deeply significant. They underscored his unwavering love for Maggie and his hope for a future reunion, even in death. These words became a symbol of hope and resilience for Maggie and the other characters, reminding them of what they were fighting for.
8. How did Glenn’s death impact Maggie’s leadership role?
Glenn’s death was a pivotal moment in Maggie’s character arc, propelling her into a leadership role. Driven by grief and a desire to honor Glenn’s memory, she became a strong and capable leader of the Hilltop community and played a crucial role in the war against Negan.
9. How is Glenn’s legacy honored in the show?
Glenn’s legacy is primarily honored through his son, Hershel Rhee Jr. Maggie often speaks of Glenn and his values, and the other characters remember him fondly. His compassion and bravery serve as an inspiration to the group.
10. Were there any discussions about killing off a different character instead of Glenn?
While it’s difficult to know the specifics of internal discussions among the showrunners, it’s likely that other characters were considered for death. However, the producers ultimately decided to stick to the source material and kill off Glenn, believing it would have the most significant impact on the narrative.
11. How did Glenn’s death affect the dynamic between Rick and Negan?
Glenn’s death was instrumental in shaping the relationship between Rick and Negan. It served as a brutal lesson for Rick, forcing him to understand the power of the Saviors and the consequences of defiance. This event fueled Rick’s desire for revenge and ultimately led to his decision to wage war against Negan.
12. Is there any possibility of Glenn returning to the Walking Dead universe in flashbacks or spin-offs?
While Glenn is definitively dead within the main Walking Dead timeline, the possibility of him appearing in flashbacks or spin-offs is not entirely impossible, although unlikely. Given the expanding Walking Dead universe and the use of flashbacks in some series, there’s a slim chance that Steven Yeun could reprise his role in some capacity in the future. However, as of now, there are no confirmed plans for his return.
Glenn Rhee’s death remains a defining moment in The Walking Dead. Its brutality, its impact on the characters, and the ensuing controversy cemented its place in television history. Though his time on the show was cut short, Glenn’s legacy of bravery, compassion, and unwavering love continues to resonate with fans worldwide.