In a surprising twist from Terry O’Quinn’s character in “The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live,” hints may have been dropped about the future of Rick Grimes in the franchise. While doubts lingered about Rick’s survival after his showdown with the Civic Republic Military, this latest instalment left a door open for his return.
However, the exact details of when and how Rick, alongside Michonne, might reappear in “The Walking Dead” universe remain shrouded in mystery.
Speculations abound on the various forms Rick’s comeback could take. Perhaps he might make a brief appearance as Daryl finally makes his way home, potentially concluding “The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon’s” journey.
Rick Grimes Saving Everyone Could Be His Next Walking Dead Story
Alternatively, Rick could find his way into a thrilling crossover event within the franchise. Of course, the most straightforward path would be a return in “The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live” season 2.
Yet, regardless of the chosen avenue, one thing is clear—there seems to be no immediate adversary for Rick to confront now that the CRM threat has been neutralized.
The seismic revelation in the finale of “The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live” season 1, during the echelon briefing, shed light on the CRM’s ominous predictions for humanity. Major General Beale revealed a harrowing truth, indicating that civilization has a mere 14-year window before the Earth becomes overrun by the undead.
According to CRM scientists, issues such as famine and disease transmission from zombies will spell humanity’s downfall. This newfound knowledge could significantly influence Rick’s decision-making in his forthcoming adventures within “The Walking Dead” universe.
Having been entangled with the CRM, Rick intimately understands the dangers inherent in the organization’s quest to “save” the world. Rather than safeguarding all of humanity, the CRM’s pursuits have often prioritized self-preservation, often at a grave cost in human lives.
If Rick believes in the veracity of the CRM’s research, he may go on a mission to ensure the survival of humankind as a whole. Such a path would be in alignment with his season 1 conclusion, where he opted for the greater good over the safety of his immediate community by rejecting Beale’s offer.
Should “The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live” season 2 materialize, it’s plausible that Rick’s primary focus will be averting the grim fate outlined by Beale. With the clock ticking on humanity’s existence, Rick might find himself leading the charge against impending catastrophe.
AMC hasn’t ruled out a second season for the series, and if the continued success of “The Walking Dead: Dead City” and “Daryl Dixon” is any indication, the franchise aims to keep its spinoffs thriving.
Presently, there looms no greater threat than the dire warning laid out by Beale for the planet’s future. With the Civic Republic restructured under new leadership due to Rick and Michonne’s actions, the franchise stands at a crossroads.
The removal of the franchise’s central antagonist leaves room for a new challenge to emerge, possibly tied to the impending 14-year deadline. By setting this narrative course, “The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live” season 1 finale has paved the way for an enthralling continuation of Rick Grimes’ saga.