Why Rick Grimes Wouldn’t Have Been Captured by The Walking Dead’s CRM If He Had Eliminated Negan

In 2024, fans of The Walking Dead rejoiced as Rick Grimes made his long-anticipated return, following an extensive absence from the series. This return raised new questions about his storyline with the CRM (Civic Republic Military) and how different events could have unfolded if Rick had chosen to eliminate Negan during their initial encounters. Having been the central character since the show’s inception in 2010, Rick’s journey took an unexpected turn in 2019 when Andrew Lincoln stepped away from his role for personal reasons. Despite his exit, the character remained alive, ultimately being taken away in a helicopter after sustaining serious injuries. He remained absent from the narrative until the finale of season 11, before his storyline was further expanded in a spinoff, revealing he was captured by the CRM and unable to leave.

This detour meant that Rick endured nearly ten years apart from his loved ones, even resulting in the drastic decision to sever his own hand in a desperate escape attempt. Unfortunately, this plan failed, and Rick found himself trapped within the clutches of the military faction for years until Michonne came to his aid. Their partnership ultimately allowed them to defeat their adversaries, leading to a heartfelt reunion with their children in The Ones Who Live, leaving fans hopeful for Rick’s reintegration into the main narrative. Reflecting on the past, it’s clear: had Rick opted to kill Negan years ago, he could have evaded this harrowing fate and carved out a vastly different storyline.

Rick’s Disappearance: A Consequence of Sparing Negan

The Domino Effect: Rick’s Capture Linked to Negan’s Survival

Neagan’s actions may not have directly caused Rick’s disappearance, yet the decision to spare him proved pivotal to Rick’s fate. This choice sparked significant discord among the survivors, particularly with Maggie and Daryl, who plotted to kill Negan. Their conspiracy had profound consequences, leading Eric to a dire confrontation that ultimately ended with his grave injury.

In Season 9, Maggie traveled to Alexandria with the intention of assassinating Negan, while Daryl, intending to help her, inadvertently led Rick astray. Their misdirection culminated in a critical showdown, forcing Rick to confront an impending horde of zombies. Under duress, he bravely attempted to divert the threat but tragically suffered an injury that landed him in a helicopter, courtesy of Jadis. This chain of events, rooted in his choice to spare Negan, showcased the far-reaching implications of that decision.

For years, Rick endured captivity at the hands of the CRM, an experience that severely impacted his mental state, leaving him in despair. This tragic outcome could have been entirely avoided had he exercised lethal force against Negan in Season 8 or allowed Maggie to finish the job in Season 9, making it one of the most significant choices of his journey.

Rick’s Choice: A Reflection of Carl’s Legacy

Respecting Carl’s Dying Wish: The Impact of Rick’s Decision

Rick Grimes and Carl Grimes from The Walking Dead — Custom image by Simone Ashmoore

Rick’s animosity towards Negan was palpable, yet his decision to spare the villain spoke volumes about his dedication to Carl’s memory. Losing Carl was a devastating blow, and his son’s dying wish emphasized the necessity for reconciliation between the various factions in their world, highlighting the path towards peace rather than vengeance. By choosing mercy, Rick not only honored Carl’s request but also influenced the fragile dynamics of their communities, allowing reform and healing.

This commitment to Carl’s legacy is evident in The Ones Who Live, where Rick grapples with the memories of his son, reinforcing that Carl will always remain an integral part of his life and decision-making process. Despite having a family to return to, Carl’s memory profoundly shapes Rick’s legacy and worldview, as shown in his choice regarding Negan.

Letting Negan Live: A Decision That Paid Off

The Redemption of Negan: A Protector Emerging from Darkness

While Rick’s choice to spare Negan initially appeared detrimental to his life, it yielded benefits over time. Negan’s imprisonment granted him the necessary space for remorse and personal growth, ultimately positioning him as a valuable ally. His heroic actions during the season 9 finale, where he saved Judith, underscored his transformation and willingness to protect those he previously threatened. Furthermore, Negan’s heroic neutralization of Alpha and assistance in Beta’s demise validated his emergence as a formidable ally.

Even though Negan’s path to redemption cannot wipe away his past sins, his evolving character and choice to sacrifice his freedom to save Hershel highlight the depth of his transformation. Rick may not yet recognize the significant impact of his decision, yet Negan’s contributions to their survival underscore the risks associated with giving him a second chance.

Imagining Rick’s Legacy Had He Chosen to Kill Negan

A Divergent Path: Alternate Outcomes of Rick’s Decision

Rick and Negan covered in blood — Custom Image by Yailin Chacon

Had Rick opted for violence and eliminated Negan, the trajectory of his legacy would have shifted dramatically. Rick might have experienced more quality time with Michonne and his children, witnessing Judith and RJ grow up. However, this could have conflicted with Carl’s wishes, possibly keeping Rick on a path of ruthlessness instead of leading towards potential peace, which in turn would have significantly affected their family dynamics.

With Jeffrey Dean Morgan set to reprise his role as Negan in Season 2 of The Walking Dead: Dead City, anticipating his return adds another layer of intrigue to Rick’s fate as tensions unfold in the post-apocalyptic universe. The series is expected to return in Spring 2025.

Rick’s potential outcome in a future Commonwealth takeover could have positioned him in precarious danger. Even minor threats, such as Sebastian, could have led to destructive consequences if Rick aligned himself with the wrong side of history. Thus, sparing Negan not only sidestepped potential personal tragedy but also thwarted the evil intentions of the CRM, underscoring the complexities within his journey.

Ultimately, whether Rick’s circumstances would have improved or deteriorated by killing Negan hinges heavily on many factors. Nonetheless, despite his prolonged absence from his family, the evolution of Negan contributed positively to Rick’s legacy, validating the risks he took to preserve life over vengeance.

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