The season 7 premiere of The Walking Dead remains one of the most talked-about and controversial episodes in television history. The brutal cliffhanger left viewers agonizing over who met their demise at the hands of Negan and his infamous baseball bat, Lucille. The answer, though delayed, was devastating: Abraham Ford and Glenn Rhee were both murdered by Negan in that episode.
The Shocking Revelation: Double the Horror
The agonizing wait between seasons 6 and 7 culminated in a sequence of unparalleled violence. Many fans expected only one character to die, mirroring the comic book storyline. However, the show deviated, delivering a double blow that significantly altered the trajectory of the series.
Abraham’s Stoic End
Abraham Ford, after bravely facing Negan with a defiant last word, “Suck my nuts,” was the first victim of Lucille. His death, while tragic, aligned with his character’s established arc – a soldier willing to sacrifice himself for the greater good. The initial blow was impactful, setting a grim tone for what was to follow.
Glenn’s Unforeseen Fate
Just as the group began to grapple with Abraham’s death, Daryl Dixon, overcome with anger, lashed out at Negan. In retaliation for Daryl’s defiance, Negan made a shocking and devastating choice. He turned Lucille on Glenn Rhee, a character beloved for his unwavering optimism and his deep connection with Maggie. Glenn’s death, mirroring his comic book counterpart but amplified by the visual medium, was particularly brutal and emotionally shattering, solidifying Negan as one of television’s most terrifying villains.
Understanding the Fallout: A Community Shattered
The double murder served as a powerful catalyst for the show’s narrative. It completely shattered Rick Grimes’s confidence, forcing him to submit to Negan’s rule. This act of violence aimed to break Rick and his group’s spirit, establishing Negan’s dominance and reshaping the power dynamics within the zombie-ridden world. The ripple effects of these deaths continued to influence the characters’ actions and motivations for seasons to come.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into the Impact and Aftermath
Here are some frequently asked questions that explore the various aspects and lasting consequences of Negan’s actions in the season 7 premiere.
FAQ 1: Why did the show deviate from the comic book and kill two characters?
The decision to kill both Abraham and Glenn was primarily driven by shock value and narrative impact. The show’s writers wanted to underscore the severity of Negan’s threat and demonstrate the complete powerlessness of Rick’s group. The double death created a level of emotional trauma that resonated deeply with viewers, even if controversially. It also allowed for different character arcs to develop in ways that were unexpected, diverging from the comic book narrative.
FAQ 2: How did the actors react to learning about their characters’ deaths?
Both Michael Cudlitz (Abraham) and Steven Yeun (Glenn) were aware of their impending departures well in advance of filming. They handled the news with professionalism and understanding of the story’s needs. Both actors have spoken about the emotional toll of filming such a brutal scene but also their appreciation for the impact it had on the show.
FAQ 3: What was the audience’s reaction to the episode?
The episode elicited a wide range of reactions, from outrage and sadness to disappointment and disgust. Some viewers praised the show for its boldness, while others criticized it for its excessive violence and perceived exploitation of character deaths. The premiere sparked intense debate about the show’s direction and its responsibility to its audience. It undoubtedly became one of the most polarizing episodes in The Walking Dead‘s history.
FAQ 4: Did the controversy affect the show’s ratings or viewership?
While the premiere garnered incredibly high ratings, attracting over 17 million viewers, it also marked the beginning of a gradual decline in viewership in subsequent seasons. The controversy surrounding the violence and the perceived manipulation of the audience likely contributed to some viewers tuning out. While ratings remained strong for a while, the show never quite regained its previous peak popularity.
FAQ 5: How did Abraham’s and Glenn’s deaths impact Rick’s leadership?
The murders of Abraham and Glenn completely shattered Rick’s confidence and leadership. He was forced to witness their brutal deaths and accept Negan’s dominance to protect the remaining members of his group. This experience transformed Rick from a confident leader into a broken and subservient follower, at least initially. It took considerable time and effort for him to regain his strength and reclaim his position as the leader of the group.
FAQ 6: How did Maggie cope with the loss of Glenn?
Maggie’s reaction to Glenn’s death was understandably devastating. Pregnant at the time, she was forced to witness the brutal murder of her husband and the father of her child. This loss fueled her determination to survive and protect her unborn child. It also significantly shaped her leadership style at Hilltop, making her a strong and resilient leader committed to protecting her community.
FAQ 7: What was Daryl’s role in Glenn’s death, and how did he react?
Daryl’s impulsive act of defiance against Negan ultimately led to Glenn’s death. Overcome with anger at Negan’s taunting, Daryl struck him, prompting Negan to retaliate by killing Glenn. Daryl carried immense guilt and responsibility for Glenn’s death, which heavily influenced his actions and motivations in the subsequent seasons. He felt responsible for the loss and constantly wrestled with the consequences of his actions.
FAQ 8: How did Negan’s actions shape his character development throughout the series?
While initially portrayed as a purely evil villain, Negan’s character gradually evolved throughout the series. His actions in the season 7 premiere were undeniably brutal, but the show later explored the complexities of his past and his motivations. He eventually underwent a significant redemption arc, demonstrating that even the most ruthless individuals are capable of change.
FAQ 9: Did Abraham and Glenn die in the same way in the comic books?
Abraham’s death in the comic book mirrors his TV death relatively closely, although he dies protecting Eugene. However, Glenn’s death in the comics is significantly different. He is indeed killed by Negan with Lucille, but this occurs much earlier in the storyline, before the group reaches Alexandria. It’s also the only death. The visual depiction of his injuries is strikingly similar in both mediums.
FAQ 10: What were the lasting consequences of Negan’s brutality on the other characters?
Beyond Rick and Maggie, Negan’s brutality deeply affected all members of the group. Carl became increasingly hardened and determined to fight against Negan. Michonne struggled with her desire for revenge and her commitment to building a better future. Each character was forced to confront the darkness within themselves and find ways to cope with the trauma they had experienced.
FAQ 11: How does this episode compare to other controversial moments in The Walking Dead?
While The Walking Dead has featured several controversial moments, the season 7 premiere stands out due to its graphic violence and emotional manipulation. Other controversial moments, such as the deaths of Sophia and Lizzie, also sparked debate, but none resonated quite as strongly or had such a lasting impact on the show’s trajectory. The sheer brutality and the extended build-up to the reveal made this particular episode exceptionally divisive.
FAQ 12: Where can viewers stream or re-watch this episode?
The episode, titled “The Day Will Come When You Won’t Be,” is available to stream on various platforms that offer The Walking Dead, including AMC+, Netflix (depending on region), and other streaming services that carry the series. Digital purchases are also available through services like Amazon Prime Video and Google Play.
A Legacy of Violence and Transformation
The season 7 premiere of The Walking Dead remains a significant moment in television history. While the violence and the resulting controversy were divisive, the episode undeniably left a lasting impact on the show’s characters, storyline, and overall legacy. The deaths of Abraham and Glenn were not just plot points; they were catalysts for profound transformation and a stark reminder of the brutal realities of survival in a zombie apocalypse. The ripple effects of that fateful night continued to shape the narrative for years to come, influencing the characters’ choices and the direction of the show. The impact of Negan’s brutal introduction cemented its place in television history, sparking debate and shaping the zombie genre.