Morgan Jones, a pivotal character spanning both The Walking Dead and Fear the Walking Dead, met his seeming end in the Season 8 mid-season finale, Episode 806, “All I See Is Red.” However, the ambiguous nature of his departure leaves room for future possibilities, which we’ll explore in detail.
Morgan’s “Death” and Departure: A Deep Dive
Morgan Jones’ journey has been one of profound transformation, from a traumatized survivor in the original series to a leader seeking redemption in Fear the Walking Dead. His impact on the narrative is undeniable, making his apparent demise in “All I See Is Red” a particularly impactful moment. But “death” may be too strong a word. Let’s examine the circumstances.
The Situation: Severely Wounded and Determined
Episode 806 finds Morgan severely injured, having suffered a bite from a walker. Knowing his time is limited and desperate to return to his daughter Mo, he undertakes a perilous journey back to Alexandria. The episode is visually striking, showcasing Morgan’s fevered hallucinations and dwindling strength. The audience witnesses a man pushed to his absolute limit, battling both external threats and his own internal demons.
The Ambiguity of His Final Scene
The episode ends with Morgan reaching the outskirts of Alexandria. While heavily weakened and clearly near death, the final scene shows him collapsing, but not definitively succumbing to the bite. The ambiguity is crucial. We don’t see him turn, nor do we witness a definitive passing. This leaves the door open for a potential return, a classic narrative trick employed in The Walking Dead universe. Given the franchise’s history of resurrections and surprising character returns, it’s important to consider the possibility that Morgan’s story isn’t entirely finished.
Why This Departure Feels Different
Although ambiguous, this departure feels different than other fake-out deaths in The Walking Dead franchise. Morgan’s journey has come full circle. He’s returned to the place where his story began, seemingly ready to pass the torch to a new generation. Moreover, Lennie James, the actor portraying Morgan, has expressed a desire to explore other creative avenues, suggesting a potential reluctance to commit to a long-term return. However, never say never in the world of The Walking Dead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Morgan’s Fate
To further clarify the complexities surrounding Morgan’s departure from Fear the Walking Dead, let’s address some common questions.
FAQ 1: Was Morgan Really Bitten?
Yes, Morgan was definitively bitten by a walker in “All I See Is Red.” This fact is not disputed within the episode’s narrative. The bite is shown on screen, and characters acknowledge the severity of his situation.
FAQ 2: Did Morgan Turn Into a Walker?
This is the million-dollar question. The episode deliberately leaves this unclear. We do not see Morgan turn into a walker. The ambiguity allows for a potential return in the future. The lack of visual confirmation fuels speculation and hope among fans.
FAQ 3: Why Did Morgan Go Back to Alexandria?
His primary motivation was to return to his daughter, Mo. He believed Alexandria would be a safer and more stable environment for her to grow up in. This paternal instinct drove his actions throughout the episode, giving his sacrifice added emotional weight.
FAQ 4: What Happens to Mo After Morgan Leaves?
Mo is presumably safe in Alexandria, reunited with Rick Grimes and Michonne. This reunion offers some closure for Morgan’s character arc, knowing that his daughter is in good hands. Her future is uncertain, but she is surrounded by people who care for her.
FAQ 5: Is Lennie James Done with The Walking Dead Universe?
While Lennie James has expressed a desire to pursue other projects, he hasn’t ruled out returning to the Walking Dead universe entirely. He has stated that the door is always open, leaving fans with a glimmer of hope.
FAQ 6: Could a Cure Save Morgan?
The possibility of a cure for the walker virus has been a recurring theme in the franchise. However, as of now, no definitive cure exists. While experimental treatments have been explored, none have proven consistently effective. Therefore, realistically, a cure saving Morgan in the timeframe of the show is unlikely.
FAQ 7: Did Morgan Make the Right Choice Leaving PADRE?
This is a matter of opinion. PADRE offered a degree of safety and stability, but Morgan ultimately prioritized his daughter’s well-being and her access to a wider community. He believed Alexandria offered a more nurturing environment for her to thrive. Whether or not it was the “right” choice is debatable.
FAQ 8: Will There Be Flashbacks Featuring Morgan?
It’s possible that flashbacks featuring Morgan could appear in future episodes or spin-offs. Flashbacks are a common storytelling device in The Walking Dead universe, and they could be used to further explore Morgan’s past or provide context for current events.
FAQ 9: How Did Morgan Get Back to Alexandria So Quickly?
The speed with which Morgan traversed the distance from PADRE to Alexandria is a point of contention among fans. While the show attempts to explain it, it does require some suspension of disbelief. It’s likely a narrative device used to facilitate his reunion with Alexandria before his apparent death.
FAQ 10: What Was the Significance of the Red Filter in Episode 806?
The red filter used throughout “All I See Is Red” represents Morgan’s fevered state and distorted perception of reality. It visually conveys his declining health and increasing hallucinations, highlighting the intensity of his final journey.
FAQ 11: Could Morgan Appear in The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live?
While there’s no concrete evidence suggesting he will, the possibility remains. The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live focuses on Rick and Michonne, and Alexandria is a key location. Morgan’s proximity to Alexandria at the end of Fear the Walking Dead means he could theoretically cross paths with them.
FAQ 12: What Does Morgan’s Departure Mean for Fear the Walking Dead’s Legacy?
Morgan’s departure marks a significant shift in Fear the Walking Dead. He was a central character who connected the spin-off to the original series. His absence leaves a void that the remaining characters will have to fill. It also allows the show to potentially explore new narrative directions and character dynamics. Ultimately, it is up to the creative team as to how the remaining story unfolds without his key presence.