This article contains spoilers for Fear the Walking Dead season 8.
Article Overview
The unexpected reappearance of Troy and Charlie in the latter part of Fear the Walking Dead Season 8 reintroduces significant rivalries and conflicts, effectively adding depth to the storyline. Furthermore, the eighth season of the series highlights the prevalent theme of second chances, delving into the prospects of redemption for individuals such as Troy.
Madison potentially giving Troy a second chance, leading to her own demise, adds an exciting and bittersweet element to the final episodes of Fear the Walking Dead. As the second half of season 8 progresses, unexpected twists and turns continue to unfold, raising the anticipation for the series finale. Among the surprises are the shifting perceptions of characters as villains and heroes. Fear the Walking Dead, the inaugural spinoff of AMC's The Walking Dead, is concluding its eight-season run. In the recent episodes, Madison encounters Strand and Troy, who show signs of change but still lack trustworthiness. Additionally, Charlie's return defies Daniel's belief that she succumbed to radiation poisoning.
Troy's "Second Chance" Line Sets Up His Fear The Walking Dead Redemption
The returns of Strand and Charlie may have been surprising, but the reappearance of Troy in Fear the Walking Dead was by far the most shocking. Last seen in season 3, Troy served as the primary antagonist and direct adversary of Madison, resulting in a memorable rivalry. Despite Madison seemingly ending Troy's life with a fatal blow to the head using a hammer, Fear the Walking Dead left a small opening for his potential return.
Despite Fear the Walking Dead depicting Troy as a returning villain, boasting about Alicia's prosthetic arm and his supposed act of killing her, there is potential for redemption within his character. This possibility is highlighted in Fear the Walking Dead season 8, episode 8, where Troy acknowledges the lack of second chances in his life by stating, "no one ever gave us a second chance." Essentially, Troy acknowledges his past transgressions and expresses a desire for an opportunity at redemption, which unfortunately, he feels he has never been granted, especially by Madison.
Madison Can Fix A FTWD Season 3 Mistake By Giving Troy A Second Chance
Furthermore, the significance of this line is heightened due to the pervasive theme of second chances in season 8, part 2. In episode 7, Strand delves deeply into the concept of second chances, highlighting its importance. The fact that numerous cast members, such as Troy and Charlie, have been brought back to life in Fear the Walking Dead exemplifies the notion of second chances. Even if a character is presumed deceased, they can still survive if given an opportunity. This theme also intertwines with the bird Amina, which served as a teacher to Nick and Alicia, demonstrating the need to offer support and second chances to individuals who may initially appear as lost causes.
The puzzle pieces start falling into place when we consider the concept of second chances in the context of Troy and Madison's rivalry. Once Troy reemerged in Fear the Walking Dead, their deep-seated animosity resurfaced instantly. Therefore, the show has set up a scenario where the conflict between Madison and Troy must find some resolution by the end of Fear the Walking Dead. One ideal resolution could be Madison granting Troy a second chance. In episode 8, Troy ponders why no one has ever offered him another opportunity, and if anyone were to extend it, Madison would be the perfect candidate.
Madison, despite being Fear the Walking Dead's hero, and often portrayed as morally upright, was the one person who refused to give Troy a second chance. Despite Troy's heinous actions in season 3, he tried to make amends and prove his loyalty to Madison. Nevertheless, she betrayed his trust and brutally ended his life. It would have been compelling storytelling if Madison had ultimately decided to grant Troy the second chance he deserved, allowing him to demonstrate his capacity for goodness.
Troy's Redemption Would Make Madison's Death More Likely
The hypothetical storyline ends with Madison's death, which serves as the final piece to complete the narrative. The rivalry between Troy and Madison is crucial and must reach its climax. In a desperate attempt to prove himself, Troy is given a second chance by Madison. He demonstrates his ability to be good and, when faced with danger, Madison sacrifices her own life to save him. This act, although not surprising for Madison, holds immense meaning because it involves Troy. Consequently, Troy is motivated to become an even better person in order to honor Madison's sacrifice.
The outcome of the final episodes of Fear the Walking Dead remains uncertain, but this theory is captivating. With the recurring theme of second chances and the return of certain characters, it would be logical for a major event to tie everything together. While Troy is an exceptional villain, witnessing his transformation into a hero would be remarkable. Furthermore, although Madison has been a beloved and intriguing protagonist, her death would serve as a fitting conclusion to the series. A bittersweet ending from The Walking Dead franchise would be the most reliable outcome.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z netizen, I have mixed feelings about the potential redemption of Troy in Fear the Walking Dead. On the one hand, I understand that redemption is a powerful theme in storytelling and can add depth to a character. Troy has done some terrible things in the past, but if he were to be redeemed, it would show that even the most irredeemable people can change.
On the other hand, I am concerned that redeeming Troy would undermine the impact of his past actions. He has caused a lot of pain and suffering, and it would be hard to forgive him for what he has done. I think it is important to hold characters accountable for their actions, and I am not sure if redeeming Troy would do that.
Ultimately, I think the decision of whether or not to redeem Troy is a complex one. There are valid arguments to be made on both sides. I will be interested to see what the writers decide to do with his character.