Do Zombies Swim? Insights from The Walking Dead Creator on a Popular Debate

The portrayal of zombies in popular culture varies widely, leading to the recurring question: “Can zombies swim?”This question often varies based on different interpretations of the undead. However, in the universe of The Walking Dead, fans can find a concrete answer, directly from the series’ creator, Robert Kirkman.

This inquiry not only touches on fan beliefs but also invokes curiosity about how the TV series aligns with the comic book’s “no swimming zombies”rule. In The Walking Dead Deluxe #103, a significant issue from the creative team of Robert Kirkman, Charlie Adlard, Dave McCaig, and Rus Wooton, this topic is addressed in detail. This particular edition not only depicts Negan’s rise to power, which disrupts the group’s hierarchy but also provides vital insights from Kirkman regarding fan queries about the zombies and the series’ lore.

Among the questions posed, the classic query remains: “Can zombies swim?” Kirkman provides the straightforward answer: no. However, he expands on this simple statement with additional thoughts.

Can Zombies Swim? The Simple Answer Is No (But There’s More)

Cover B Variant by Charlie Adlard for The Walking Dead Deluxe #103 (2024)

The Walking Dead Deluxe #103 variant cover

When asked about the fate of zombies in water, specifically if they float or sink, and whether they would be carried away by a river’s current, Kirkman emphasized that water is detrimental to zombies. He explained that extended exposure to water would hasten their decay and, with the expulsion of gases from their bodies, they would ultimately sink to the bottom.

Furthermore, Kirkman considered the influence of river currents, suggesting that if a river’s flow is strong enough, it could indeed wash zombies away. A particularly intriguing element of his response involved the concept of a zombie’s “drive.”He remarked that while he does not endorse the idea of intelligent or evolving zombies, there may be some that exhibit a stronger motivation than others. This notion opens up fascinating dialogue surrounding the differentiation of zombies based on levels of instinct or desire beyond their mere hunger for flesh.

Has The Walking Dead TV Series Stayed True to the Comics’ No Swim Rule?

Cover C Connecting Variant by Nate Bellegarde for The Walking Dead Deluxe #103 (2024)

The Walking Dead Deluxe #103 Variant cover 2

While Kirkman’s insights primarily address the comic series, they also lead to questions about how the television adaptation honors the rule against swimming zombies. Generally, the main series has adhered to the established canon of Kirkman; however, spinoffs like Fear the Walking Dead seem to diverge from this guideline. For instance, in the Season 2 episode titled “Monster,”visual depictions suggest zombies swimming or floating after interacting with a boat. Overall, the original canon of The Walking Dead establishes that zombies do not swim or float.

If you’re eager to keep up with the latest in this gripping universe, The Walking Dead Deluxe #103 is currently available from IMAGE COMICS.

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