Glenn Rhee, a beloved character on “The Walking Dead,” meets his devastating demise in Season 7, Episode 1, titled “The Day Will Come When You Won’t Be.” This episode marks a pivotal and emotionally charged moment in the series, forever altering the trajectory of the surviving characters.
The Brutal Reality of “The Day Will Come When You Won’t Be”
The death of Glenn Rhee is arguably one of the most impactful and controversial moments in “The Walking Dead” history. His demise, along with Abraham Ford’s, at the hands of Negan and his barbed-wire bat, Lucille, left a lasting scar on the show’s fanbase. The graphic nature of the scene and the emotional weight it carried contributed to a significant shift in viewership and audience perception of the series’ direction. It wasn’t just Glenn’s death; it was the manner of it, a brutal display of Negan’s power and the complete subjugation of Rick Grimes and his group.
Context Leading Up to the Episode
Before delving into the specifics of the episode, it’s crucial to understand the context. Rick’s group had been ambushed by Negan and his Saviors. They were forced to their knees, powerless and at Negan’s mercy. This encounter was orchestrated to break Rick and establish Negan as the dominant force. The infamous game of “eeny, meeny, miny, moe” determined who would be the first victim of Lucille. While Abraham was initially chosen, Daryl’s outburst prompted Negan to retaliate, leading to Glenn’s unforeseen and tragic fate.
The Impact of Glenn’s Death
Glenn’s death wasn’t merely the loss of a character; it represented the loss of hope and innocence within the group. He was often portrayed as the moral compass, the one who held onto his humanity in the face of overwhelming darkness. His relationship with Maggie, his enduring optimism, and his resourcefulness made him a fan favorite. His death served as a stark reminder that no one was safe in the world of “The Walking Dead” and that even the most beloved characters could be taken at any moment. The emotional fallout from his death profoundly affected Maggie, who was pregnant with their child, and shaped her character arc for seasons to come. It also fueled Rick’s determination to ultimately defeat Negan.
Frequently Asked Questions About Glenn’s Death
Here are some frequently asked questions about Glenn Rhee’s death, providing further insight into the context, impact, and surrounding details of the scene:
H3: Why was Glenn chosen to die?
Glenn’s death was a point of contention. While adhering to the comic book storyline where Glenn is killed by Negan, many argued that it was unnecessarily graphic and emotionally manipulative. The showrunners defended the decision, stating that it was crucial to establishing Negan as a formidable villain and to driving the narrative forward. They also emphasized the profound impact it would have on Maggie and the rest of the group. Ultimately, the decision was a creative one, aimed at pushing the boundaries of the show and exploring the darker aspects of human survival.
H3: Did Steven Yeun know his character was going to die?
Yes, Steven Yeun was aware of Glenn’s impending death well in advance of filming the episode. The producers typically informed actors of major character deaths to allow them time to prepare. Yeun was reportedly professional and understanding, recognizing the importance of the scene in the overall narrative. He even expressed a desire to do justice to the character and the storyline.
H3: Was Glenn’s death scene controversial?
Absolutely. The intense graphic violence and emotional impact of the scene sparked widespread debate and controversy. Many viewers found it excessively brutal and gratuitous, leading to criticism of the show’s writing and direction. Some felt that the scene prioritized shock value over character development and narrative depth. The backlash ultimately contributed to a shift in the show’s tone and content in subsequent seasons.
H3: How did Glenn’s death affect Maggie?
Glenn’s death had a devastating effect on Maggie. Pregnant with their child, she was forced to grieve not only for her husband but also for the future they had envisioned together. This loss fueled her determination to protect her child and to fight for a better world. Maggie’s grief transformed her into a stronger, more resilient leader, and her desire for revenge against Negan became a driving force in her character arc.
H3: What were the reactions of other cast members?
The other cast members were deeply affected by Glenn’s death, both on and off-screen. They spoke publicly about the emotional toll of filming such a brutal scene and the sadness of saying goodbye to Steven Yeun. The cast had become a close-knit family over the years, and the loss of a member was felt profoundly. Many expressed their support for Yeun and acknowledged the importance of the scene in the show’s overall story.
H3: Did the showrunners regret Glenn’s death?
While the showrunners never explicitly stated that they regretted Glenn’s death, they acknowledged the controversy and criticism it generated. They defended their creative choices but also expressed an understanding of the viewers’ reactions. In subsequent seasons, the showrunners seemed to consciously tone down the level of graphic violence, possibly in response to the backlash surrounding Glenn’s death and other similarly brutal scenes.
H3: Was Glenn’s death different in the comics?
Yes, while Glenn’s death occurs in the comic book series, there are some key differences. The scene in the comics is less graphic and prolonged than the one in the show. Additionally, the circumstances surrounding the selection of the victim differ slightly. Despite these differences, the core impact of Glenn’s death remains the same: a devastating loss that fundamentally alters the course of the story.
H3: What legacy did Glenn leave on the show?
Glenn’s legacy on “The Walking Dead” is significant. He represented hope, compassion, and resourcefulness in a world consumed by violence and despair. He was a devoted husband, a loyal friend, and a courageous fighter. His death served as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of holding onto one’s humanity in the face of adversity. Glenn’s impact on the other characters, particularly Maggie and Rick, was profound and lasting.
H3: Did Glenn’s death affect the show’s ratings?
While it’s difficult to isolate Glenn’s death as the sole factor, the episode and subsequent episodes experienced a significant drop in viewership. Some fans cited the excessive violence and the depressing tone as reasons for abandoning the show. While the show remained popular, Glenn’s death is often cited as a turning point, marking a shift in audience perception and a decline in ratings.
H3: What episode does Abraham die?
Abraham Ford also dies in Season 7, Episode 1, “The Day Will Come When You Won’t Be,” making it a double blow for Rick’s group and viewers. He is Negan’s first victim in the episode.
H3: How does Glenn’s death contribute to Rick’s arc?
Glenn’s death profoundly impacts Rick’s character arc. It initially breaks him, forcing him to submit to Negan’s authority. However, this submission is a facade. Glenn’s death ultimately fuels Rick’s resolve to fight back against Negan and reclaim his group’s freedom. It strengthens his determination to build a better future for his family and community, one where such brutality is no longer tolerated.
H3: Is Glenn’s death considered one of the most shocking TV deaths?
Yes, Glenn’s death is widely considered one of the most shocking and controversial deaths in television history. The graphic violence, the emotional weight of the scene, and the popularity of the character all contributed to its profound impact. It remains a topic of discussion among fans and critics alike, solidifying its place in television lore.
In conclusion, Glenn Rhee’s death in “The Walking Dead” Season 7, Episode 1, “The Day Will Come When You Won’t Be,” was a pivotal moment that shaped the series’ narrative and left an indelible mark on its audience. The episode’s controversial nature and lasting impact continue to be discussed and analyzed by fans and critics alike. His legacy as a symbol of hope and humanity remains a cornerstone of the show’s complex and evolving story.