The Walking Dead Creator Discusses the Controversy of Zombies Swimming

Overview

Robert Kirkman clarifies that zombies in The Walking Dead are unable to swim due to decay gases.
The inquiry is addressed in The Walking Dead Deluxe #103 comic issue.
The spinoff, Fear the Walking Dead, deviates from this rule by depicting swimming zombies.

The world of The Walking Dead is undeniably rooted in the terrifying presence of the undead, making it a standout series within the horror genre. The question of whether zombies can swim has lingered among fans for years, and Robert Kirkman, the show’s creator, has finally provided an answer.

Having crossed over numerous media, including comics, television, and video games, The Walking Dead remains a significant cultural phenomenon. The series has received multiple accolades, notably a Golden Globe nomination for Best Television Series in the Drama category and the Writers Guild of America Award for New Series. Despite a decline in viewership during its later seasons, attributed to stagnant story arcs and the loss of beloved characters, The Walking Dead retains a loyal fanbase that continues to engage with its universe long after its final episode aired on November 20, 2022. Interest in the franchise persists, particularly with its various spin-offs and ongoing discussions about its lore.

Robert Kirkman Answers: Can Zombies Swim in The Walking Dead?

In the recent issue of The Walking Dead Deluxe #103, Kirkman contemplates the infamous question of whether zombies can float or sink in water. This issue features significant plot developments, including the power struggle within the group as Negan forces Rick out. During this exploration, fans presented their inquiries, including curiosity about the swimming abilities of zombies. Kirkman asserts that zombies and water are not compatible, primarily due to their decay process.

According to Kirkman, the gases that build up inside a zombie would eventually escape, causing them to sink rather than float. He also addressed the notion of zombies possessing enough intelligence or strategy to navigate a river, indicating skepticism about this idea. “While I do not subscribe to the idea of smart or evolving zombies, some might be more motivated than others,”he explained. “So, some zombies might attempt to cross the river, while others would not.”

Despite Kirkman’s clarification regarding swimming zombies, Fear the Walking Dead appears to contradict this concept. In the second season premiere, zombies are depicted swimming as they are struck by the propeller of Victor Strand’s yacht, the Abigail. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, executive producer Dave Erickson elaborated on this, stating, “They can wade. We experimented with water zombies during filming. They don’t drown; they just float back up.”

As for future installments, the anticipated season two of The Walking Dead: Dead City does not yet have a confirmed release date but is expected to premiere in 2025.

Source: Screen Rant

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