Daryl Dixon's Best Moments on The Walking Dead

Introduction

With over a decade of screen time to his name, The Walking Dead's Daryl Dixon has given viewers plenty of memorable moments, but a few of them stand out as his very best. Played by Norman Reedus, Daryl was created for the AMC horror-drama series and has no source-material analog. In fact, the show's writers penned the role with Reedus in mind. Thirteen years and two series later -- one of which is a spin-off centered on Daryl Dixon -- the character has become synonymous with The Walking Dead's legacy. A fan favorite, Daryl even became the key protagonist of the parent show's last three seasons.

Norman Reedus as Daryl and Dog in Walking Dead

Of course, Daryl Dixon wasn't always beloved by Rick Grimes' (Andrew Lincoln) crew. Living in the shadow of his brother, Merle (Michael Rooker), the survivalist was merely tolerated by the rest of The Walking Dead's central characters, namely because of his proficiency with a crossbow. With Merle out of the picture, Daryl gradually let his guard down around the show's other survivors, including his now-closest friend, Carol Peletier (Melissa McBride). A man of few words -- even fewer shots -- Daryl Dixon always makes his screen time count, which is why picking Norman Reedus' best The Walking Dead moments is quite the challenge.

Emily Kinney's Beth hugs Norman Reedus' Daryl from behind in The Walking Dead

Daryl & Dog: A Loyal Companion

One of the most heartwarming moments in Daryl's journey is when he finds a four-legged best friend in the form of Dog, the former pet of Leah Shaw (Lynn Collins), a high-ranking member of the Reapers. Dog ends up accompanying Daryl Dixon when Shaw disappears, and their bond becomes unbreakable. Dog is more than just a skilled wingman; he is brave, loyal, and a skilled tracker, much like Daryl. Their deep bond serves as a reminder of Daryl's softness, even in the face of post-apocalyptic hardship.

The relationship between Daryl and Dog is a testament to the character's growth and his ability to form meaningful connections in a world filled with chaos and danger. Dog's presence has added a new dimension to Daryl's character, showcasing his capacity for compassion and loyalty, making it one of the most endearing and iconic moments in The Walking Dead.

Norman Reedus as Daryl Dixon looks over Beth's shoulder as she aims a crossbow in The Walking Dead

The Many Moments Of Daryl & Beth's Relationship

Daryl Dixon's relationship with Beth Greene is one that left a lasting impact on both characters and viewers alike. Introduced in The Walking Dead season 2, Beth Greene (Emily Kinney) is the perfect foil to Daryl's jaded persona. After the trauma of losing her father, Daryl rescues a catatonic Beth, and their journey together becomes a pivotal part of Daryl's emotional arc. Their bond deepens as Daryl teaches Beth how to wield a crossbow, a significant moment that symbolizes their growing connection.

Daryl and Beth talking to each other outside in The Walking Dead.

Despite Beth's untimely death in season 5, her influence on Daryl's character is profound, showcasing his capacity for empathy and vulnerability. The moments shared between Daryl and Beth remain some of the most poignant and heartfelt in The Walking Dead, leaving a lasting impression on the show's narrative and Daryl's personal journey.

Daryl holds dead Beth in The Walking Dead