Daryl Dixon Fans Rejoice: Walking Dead's Season 12 Cancellation Delivers Unexpected Twist!

The Walking Dead, one of AMC's most popular shows, came to an end with its eleventh season in 2022. While there was a strong desire to continue the series into a twelfth season, not moving forward with another season may have been a wise decision to avoid a decline in quality. Instead, The Walking Dead franchise is expanding with several spinoff shows that focus on beloved characters such as Maggie and Negan, Rick and Michonne, and the fan-favorite Daryl Dixon.

Although it is always disappointing when a beloved series comes to a close, it is often for the best. The Walking Dead had a successful run of 12 years, delivering many outstanding and memorable moments throughout its time on air. However, like any long-running show, there were periods when it wasn't at its peak, particularly as original cast members departed or met unfortunate fates. Considering the original plan for a twelfth season, it is likely a positive outcome that the show concluded when it did.

The Walking Dead's Season 12 Plans Were... Not Good

The absence of Daryl Dixon in The Walking Dead would have undoubtedly altered the course of the series. As Lauren Cohan (Maggie) and Jeffrey Dean Morgan (Negan) were being considered to lead the show for another four years, Norman Reedus' departure would have left a significant void. By season 11, the departure of Andrew Lincoln (Rick Grimes) and Danai Gurira (Michonne) had already occurred, and without Daryl, the show's dynamics would have undergone a drastic transformation.

Walking Dead Spinoffs Are Much Better Than Season 12's Plan

The decision to pursue spinoffs rather than four more seasons has allowed The Walking Dead franchise to retain its beloved characters while offering a fresh take on the narrative. By exploring new locations like New York and France, the spinoffs have the opportunity to expand the world of The Walking Dead and introduce new storylines. This combination of familiar characters and new settings brings a sense of excitement and novelty to the franchise.

Could The Walking Dead Really Have Continued Without Daryl Dixon?

The Walking Dead had the potential to carry on even without Daryl Dixon, but it would have undoubtedly resulted in a vastly different show. Daryl's character holds a special place in the hearts of fans and serves as a crucial element of the series. His presence over the course of 11 seasons has solidified his status as an icon. Additionally, his departure would have dealt yet another significant blow in terms of major characters exiting the show. Typically, when a series loses a substantial portion of its original cast, it tends to lose the very essence that made it popular in the first place. Therefore, it is highly probable that The Walking Dead could have endured without Daryl, but it would have undeniably suffered in terms of its viewership and overall tone.

Fortunately, The Walking Dead made the decision to forego its plans for a twelfth season. As a result, Daryl, Rick, and numerous other beloved characters will continue to thrive within the franchise through various spinoffs. These spinoffs not only serve as a fantastic alternative to a twelfth season, but they also provide an opportunity for The Walking Dead to explore new and exciting avenues for growth. Ultimately, the magic of this beloved series will remain intact, and the sacrifice of cherished characters will not be necessary as The Walking Dead embarks on a fresh and promising era.