“It’s Possible We Just Keep Going”: Is The Walking Dead Franchise’s Continuation a Good Idea?

Robert Kirkman, the visionary behind The Walking Dead, has sparked excitement among long-time enthusiasts by hinting that the ongoing Deluxe full-color reissues of the series “could just keep going”beyond the conclusion of the original comic series. Fans have particularly appreciated Kirkman’s reflective insights included in each Deluxe edition, amplifying their anticipation for what might come next.

In The Walking Dead Deluxe #100, Kirkman shares his thoughts on the evolution of the Deluxe series as every issue is meticulously recolored. Rather than concluding the series with the final issue’s release, he teases the possibility of a sequel, stating that it might be feasible to continue with “Walking Dead Deluxe #194…“This provocative suggestion has ignited considerable discussion and speculation among fans.

Walking Dead Deluxe #100 cover, Glenn staring up at Lucille moments before his death

While the actualization of Kirkman’s tease remains uncertain, a key point of contention exists within the fanbase regarding whether a continuation would be beneficial or detrimental to the story’s legacy.

Cropped cover of The Walking Dead #193 featuring a zombie's hand.

The original series reached its poignant conclusion with issue #193, culminating in the resolutions of numerous beloved characters’ arcs. By the end, significant events unfold: Sophia and Carl marry and welcome a child, Michonne ascends to a judgeship in the Commonwealth, and Maggie Greene becomes the President of Hilltop. The final three words of The Walking Dead encapsulate an inspiring message of hope in a bleak world, suggesting that amidst despair, there is always a glimmer of optimism. Introducing a new narrative thread could potentially overshadow this carefully constructed resolution.

This sense of closure conveys an important philosophical message: no matter how dire circumstances may seem, there is a possibility of positivity ahead. A continuation could undermine this ethos, insinuating that perpetual darkness looms on the horizon.

Storytelling inherently thrives on conflict, and any new chapter extending The Walking Dead’s legacy would undoubtedly invite fresh challenges. It is unlikely that a sequel would portray characters enjoying peace; rather, it would be almost necessary for upcoming installments to disrupt their newfound stability, unraveling their hard-earned sense of normalcy.

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The Argument for a Sequel Series

On the other hand, revisiting The Walking Dead could certainly cater to fans eager for more content and seamlessly align with a pop culture landscape that remains captivated by the live-action adaptations. Such a move might also provide Kirkman with another chance to align the storyline more closely with his original vision—where the zombies ultimately prevail. This possibility, while viewed as “bleak, sad, and terrible”by some, reflects Kirkman’s true intent for the franchise—an enduring struggle against overwhelming odds.

For those eager to stay updated, The Walking Dead Deluxe #100 is currently available from Image Comics.

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