20 biggest TV moments of 2018 we’ll never forget
By Sundi Rose
Rick (almost) dies – The Walking Dead
What happened: If you haven’t yet heard about what happened to The Walking Dead’s lead character, then you are doing a much better job of avoiding the internet than most of us. Rick was the beloved leader and patriarch to the group of miserable travelers, and his untimely end at the hands of a horde of zombies and a well-timed explosion had fans wringing their hands with grief.
Why it’s important: Although no one is safe from TWD’s writers, it was a hard pill to swallow. This bit of stunt storytelling is an example of the boldness of the golden age of television. No one is safe, no matter how fans adore a character. The fearlessness required to buck fanservice is the kind of writing I can get behind. Although the decision was Lincoln’s, reportedly to pursue some behind the scenes roles, the show sent him out in an epic way.
It wasn’t fitting to just let him rot from a zombie bite. He had to go out in a literal blaze, as he shoots some explosives on a bridge, killing himself and the horde … or at least that’s what we think initially.
In some ways, it’s a great example of trying to have your cake and eat it too. TWD got all the press for announcing Rick would die, but still gets to use him in TV movies.
How to watch: If you’re behind on your zombie TV, you can watch the first eight seasons on Netflix. The big moment happens about halfway through the ninth season, which you’ll have to head over to AMC.com to see.