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Andrew Lincoln’sThe Walking Deadjourney wasn’t just about surviving zombies. It was also about making a career move so gutsy, it could’ve left him in the industry’s graveyard. Lincoln, forever etched in our minds as Rick Grimes, took a brave step back from the show at the peak of its popularity—a decision not many actors would dare consider.
But for Lincoln, the weight of it all was starting to feel like carrying the apocalypse on his back. His major career pivot shocked fans, but honestly? It was a masterstroke that not only saved his sanity but also left us hungry for his return. Let’s dive into how Lincoln turned this undead drama into a career-defining moment.
Family First: Andrew Lincoln’s Tough Choice DuringThe Walking Dead
“It was becoming more unbearable.”That’s howAndrew Lincolndescribedthe toll of his major career decision duringThe Walking Dead—a choice not many actors have the guts for. Lincoln, who led the post-apocalyptic series since its 2010 debut, could have stacked other projects between seasons like many stars do. But he didn’t. Why? Simple: family.
I have a young family and the industry is littered with people that don’t make it as a family. And I spent eight months away from them for a lot of their childhood. It was becoming more unbearable so basically, when I was home, I was playing catch-up as a parent, as a husband and as a father.
But Lincoln’s choice wasn’t just about time. He also turned down scripts that felt too close to hisWalking Deadrole. And that story came withPenguin Bloom, where he played Cameron, the husband of Samantha Bloom (Naomi Watts), whose life was shattered by a tragic accident. He said,
Unfortunately what you have to do is you have to change people’s perceptions of what you’re able to do as an actor. And so a lot of the scripts I was receiving were great scripts, but they were action and they were horror and I was waiting for the right stories to chime.
And then this one came along and I instantly loved it and knew I wanted to be a part of this beautiful story of the Bloom family. And then when Naomi was involved, it just was a no-brainer.
Lincoln’s subtle portrayal of a man trying to stay strong while managing his own pain earned high praise. His years onThe Walking Deadhelped sharpen his skills. The experience clearly paid off.Penguin Bloomgave him the perfect opportunity to show his range beyond action and horror—proving he’s far more than just Rick Grimes.
Andrew Lincoln Reflects: DidThe Walking DeadGo Too Far with Glenn’s Death?
Andrew Lincoln looked back and reflected onThe Walking Dead, admitting thatGlenn’s brutal exit might’ve been a step too far. Discussing the intense moment, Lincoln confessed,“I do still think [Glenn’s death] might have been when we over-egged the omelette.”Yeah, it wasthatrough.
Glenn, played by Steven Yeun, met a gruesome end at the hands of Negan (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) in one of TV’s goriest scenes, sparking outrage among fans. While Lincoln praised Morgan’s performance, calling him “one of the nicest guys you’re ever going to meet,”he acknowledged that playing such a monstrous character was no easy feat.
Andrew Lincoln Fulfilled Every Walking Dead Fan’s Wish With 1 On-Set Accident: ‘I did actually punch him’
Even though the scene stuck closely to the comics, many felt Glenn deserved a better send-off. For many viewers, it marked a turning point, and the show never quite regained its previous momentum after Glenn’s exit.
WatchThe Walking DeadPluto TV & Apple TV.
Heena Singh
Editor | Former Senior Writer
Articles Published :1457
Heena Singh is a Editor at FandomWire, spent the last two years making waves in entertainment journalism. With a knack for digging up blockbuster celebrity scoops and an uncanny nose for the latest buzz, Heena’s articles bring a fresh and fun perspective to life. When she’s not conquering writing challenges, you’ll find her curled up in bed, peacefully sleeping.
