Summary
While Madison Clark from Fear the Walking Dead possesses a similar protagonist aura to Rick Grimes, recent developments expose her fall from the pedestal of moral integrity she has been elevated to.
Troy's comeback in season 8 uncovers Madison's hypocrisy, dispelling the illusion of her being the untainted hero portrayed by the show. Madison's past connection with Troy unveils her sinister nature, establishing that she is not Fear the Walking Dead's equivalent of Rick Grimes, and her legacy is far from the flawless image the show tries to portray.
Madison Clark of Fear the Walking Dead shares the same assertive qualities as Rick Grimes from The Walking Dead. However, the latest episode of season 8 serves as a reminder that Madison's portrayal as a morally righteous hero is not entirely accurate. Fear the Walking Dead, the first spinoff series of The Walking Dead, currently airs its eighth and final season, focusing on a new group of survivors navigating a drastically transformed world.
Madison has always played a significant role in Fear the Walking Dead, despite her unique background. Initially, she served as the protagonist from season 1 to season 4 until her supposed demise by a group of walkers. Surprisingly, in season 8, Madison makes a miraculous return and resumes her position as the main character until the series' end. Whether she was believed to be deceased or actively present, Madison's presence loomed large as the protagonist of the show. Much like Rick, she appeared as a courageous and principled leader. However, this narrative may not entirely reflect the truth.
Troy's Return Exposes The Hypocrisy Of Madison's FTWD Story
In actuality, Fear the Walking Dead presents Madison as a hero, but her true nature is not entirely virtuous, as evidenced by Troy's reappearance in season 8, episode 7. Despite being presumed dead after the show's third season, Troy makes a comeback in season 8, demonstrating the same wicked intentions as before. Troy's return serves as more than just a dramatic narrative device or the unveiling of the ultimate antagonist; it serves as a reminder that Madison has not always been the show's savior. In fact, Madison herself has engaged in acts of killing.
Back in the third season of Fear the Walking Dead, Troy served as a primary antagonist and developed a particular interest in Madison, leading to a rivalry between the two characters. However, this conflict was short-lived as Troy met his demise by the end of the season, courtesy of Madison. Although Troy claimed to care for Nick and forgave Madison for his father's death, Madison wasted no time in killing him when he revealed that he had orchestrated the horde attack on Broke Jaw Ranch. Despite Troy's apparent change, Madison focused solely on his negative actions and ruthlessly ended his life.
Madison's Legacy Proves She Isn't Fear's Version Of Rick Grimes
While Madison's past with Troy reveals a darker aspect of her character, it sets her apart from the likes of Fear the Walking Dead's Rick Grimes. Admittedly, this does not imply that Madison is entirely malevolent or that her positive actions are overshadowed by her mistakes. Nevertheless, when juxtaposed with Rick, it becomes apparent that they are distinctly different individuals. Madison has delved into her own darkness, whereas Rick has consistently maintained his role as a formidable and respected leader throughout the series. Hence, as much as Fear the Walking Dead may attempt to elevate Madison, her legacy falls short of the golden standard.