Daryl Dixon's Shocking Fate Alters The Walking Dead Franchise Forever

Warning: spoilers ahead for Daryl Dixon episode 6.

Summary

Daryl Dixon's ambiguous ending in season 1 of The Walking Dead leaves audiences speculating about the future. Opting for staying in France would not only rewrite his history in the show but also contradict his core principles.

Daryl's decision to remain in France will have a significant impact on The Walking Dead franchise. It will make it more challenging for him to participate in crossover projects and potentially result in him missing out on crucial storylines and character reunions. The conclusion of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon season 1 has forever changed the franchise with its ambiguous ending. While some storylines wrap up neatly, the final scenes leave the audience wondering what will happen next. The open ending hints at what may come in Daryl Dixon season 2. AMC has already confirmed that the spinoff will have another season, indicating that Daryl's story in France was never meant to be complete in just one season. The conclusion of season 1, however, presents a potential turning point that could completely alter the future of the franchise.

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Although AMC is currently focusing on spinoffs for The Walking Dead, it is likely that some characters will eventually crossover. This is confirmed by Daryl Dixon's final scene with Carol. While it is inevitable for the main characters to reunite, Daryl's spinoff suggests that he may not be a part of it. The ending of Daryl Dixon season 1, where he is torn between returning to the US or staying in France for Laurent, raises a major question for season 2. This creates tension and intrigue, but also leaves the future of the franchise uncertain.

If Daryl Dixon Stays, It Rewrites His Walking Dead Past

Daryl Dixon staying in France is a divisive concept as it would alter his history in The Walking Dead. Despite his initial aim of returning to the Commonwealth, Daryl's encounter with Laurent made it possible for him to forge a deep bond and genuine affection. Witnessing the growth of their relationship, from a mere mission to a heartfelt connection, has been truly heartwarming. However, the idea of Daryl forsaking his friends in the US for Laurent and Isabelle seems implausible. Although France has greatly influenced Daryl's life, he is the type of character who would willingly sacrifice this potential happiness to reunite with his true family.

Daryl has undeniably formed a strong connection with those he encountered in France and seems to have found some joy at the Nest. However, this cannot possibly replace the enduring friendships he has cultivated during his time on The Walking Dead. Furthermore, hints of Rick Grimes' return have been alluded to in Daryl's storyline, making it unlikely that Daryl would abandon his search for Rick after such a long period of time. Daryl is well aware of how much it would mean to Judith and RJ to have their father home, and his return is also eagerly anticipated by the likes of Carol and Connie. If Daryl were to forsake all of them for Laurent and Isabelle, it would fundamentally alter the beloved hero that fans have come to adore.

Daryl Dixon Staying In France Would Change The Walking Dead's Future Too

If Daryl ultimately chooses to remain in France, it will have a profound impact on the future of The Walking Dead. His permanent presence in Europe will make it significantly more challenging for him to participate in future crossover projects. While it seems that Carol will play a crucial role in Daryl Dixon season 2, her involvement will likely require her to travel to France, something that very few other characters will do. Unless he decides to leave, Daryl will not be able to join the war against the CRM, a future storyline, and he may even miss the opportunity for a reunion with Rick Grimes, which would be a substantial loss for the franchise.

Considering the potential setup for Walking Dead season 12, Daryl's presence in France would severely hinder his chances of being heavily involved in anything beyond his own spinoff. Moreover, his relocation would further fracture an already divided cast as the main characters of The Walking Dead continue to drift apart. Rick and Michonne have both been separate from the main group for an extended period, Maggie has relocated Hilltop as revealed in The Walking Dead: Dead City, and even Negan is currently trapped in Manhattan. If Daryl opts to stay in France, it will perpetuate this pattern and further drive a wedge between the main characters, potentially causing irreparable division.

How Daryl Can Still Be Involved In The Wider TWD Franchise If He Stays In France

Daryl's involvement in the wider Walking Dead franchise is not limited to his location in France. His allies in France could provide valuable support in potential conflicts, such as against the CRM, a large group. As the survivors hope for a return to civilization, overseas travel may become more common. Though air travel seems unlikely, the post-apocalyptic world still sees functional boats, which could facilitate Daryl's journey to America or allow other survivors to visit France.

The use of radios throughout the franchise opens up the possibility for Daryl to communicate with the Commonwealth from the Nest and vice versa. This would enable Norman Reedus to take a break from playing Daryl while keeping his character within reach for a potential return. Establishing international travel and contact would allow Daryl to participate in future crossover storylines when he is needed again. While the ending of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon season 1 does not guarantee his stay in France, it provides options to keep him involved in the franchise, even in a reduced capacity.