The Walking Dead, a post-apocalyptic TV series, has been a magnet for global audiences, mainly due to its gripping plotlines and engaging character arcs. Among the many narratives that left fans hooked, one that stands out is the fate of the show’s protagonist, Rick Grimes. Fans have been left pondering over the question – how did Rick die in The Walking Dead? Let’s unravel the mystery.
Rick Grimes: A Brief Introduction
Before diving into the details of his fate, it is crucial to understand who Rick Grimes is. Rick, portrayed by Andrew Lincoln, is the soul of The Walking Dead. He was the sheriff of a small town who wakes up from a coma to find the world overrun by zombies or “walkers”. He becomes the leader of a group of survivors and navigates them through the numerous challenges of a post-apocalyptic world.
Rick’s Exit from the Show
In the The Walking Dead season nine, fans were left shocked as Andrew Lincoln, the actor playing Rick Grimes, decided to exit the show. The character, who had been the heart of the series, was last seen severely injured after an explosion. A character named Jadis (Pollyanna McIntosh) rescues him, and a helicopter bearing the CRM three rings symbol flies him away. This left millions of fans questioning – was Rick killed off?
The Fate of Rick Grimes
Rick’s exit from the show occurred during the episode “What Comes After” in season 9. In a rather dramatic turn of events, Rick ends up impaled on a piece of rebar, with a horde of walkers closing in on him. However, Rick manages to lead the horde to a bridge and blows it up with dynamite, apparently sacrificing himself to save his allies.
Yet, in a classic twist that The Walking Dead is known for, Rick isn’t dead. Jadis/Anne, who had been communicating with a mysterious group over walkie-talkies, finds a severely injured Rick by the riverside. She convinces the group to rescue Rick, who is then flown away in a helicopter. This scene marked the last appearance of Rick Grimes until the series finale.
Rick Grimes’ Journey Post-Departure
Post-departure, Rick’s whereabouts remained unknown to the fans for a considerable period. However, the spin-off series The Walking Dead: World Beyond hinted at his fate. It revealed that Jadis had become a part of CRM (Civic Republic Military), the group that had airlifted Rick. It’s implied that she gained entry into this group by trading Rick.
Rick’s Return to the Series
In the 11th and final season of The Walking Dead, fans were treated to Rick’s return on-screen. In the final episode, Rick resurfaces in a montage, hinting at his escape from CRM. However, a nearby CRM helicopter soon spots him, suggesting he might be recaptured. This scene marked the end of The Walking Dead series but not Rick’s story.
The Walking Dead Spinoff: Rick and Michonne
During San Diego Comic Con, it was announced that Rick would return in The Walking Dead movies. However, plans changed, and instead, a spin-off series featuring Rick and Michonne (Danai Gurira) was announced. This series aims to explore Rick’s journey post-departure and his reunion with Michonne. If you are a Walking Dead fan, you can expect this spin-off to premiere on AMC in 2023.
The Legacy of Rick Grimes
Rick Grimes has left an indelible mark on The Walking Dead TV show. His courage, leadership, and dedication to his loved ones have made him a beloved character. Even though he departed from the series, his story continues, keeping fans on their toes.
While the question of how did Rick die in The Walking Dead might have been a pressing concern for many, the series provided a clear answer – Rick Grimes did not die, but his journey took an unexpected turn.
Conclusion
Rick Grimes’ exit from The Walking Dead universe and his subsequent fate have been a rollercoaster ride for fans worldwide. His story showcases the unpredictable and gripping storylines that have made The Walking Dead a global sensation. As fans anticipate the release of the Rick and Michonne spin-off, the legacy of Rick Grimes continues to live on, reminding us of the resilience and courage inherent in humanity, even in the face of a zombie apocalypse.
