Warning: SPOILERS ahead for The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon episode 3!
Summary
Laurent, a prominent character in The Walking Dead named Daryl Dixon, is recognized as a Messiah-like figure because of his unique connection to zombies. Despite constantly being reminded of his exceptional nature, Laurent aspires to lead a regular life like other children.
It is uncertain if Laurent possesses any unique abilities, but Isabelle, Laurent's aunt, continues to believe that he holds the key to humanity's recovery. Puech Scigliuzzi, who plays Daryl Dixon in The Walking Dead, has revealed Laurent's perspective on his own exceptionalism in relation to other children, stemming from his unusual conception during the zombie-infested apocalypse. Laurent's birth, where he was mysteriously delivered from his zombie mother's womb, has earned him the status of a messianic figure in the eyes of Isabelle and the Union of Hope.
In a recent interview with AMC Talk, Scigliuzzi discussed Laurent's feelings about his unique identity as a result of his zombie parentage. According to Scigliuzzi, Laurent desires to fit in with other children, which explains his desire to remain at the preschool in The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon episode 2. Take a look at Scigliuzzi's insights below:
Having been repeatedly told by various individuals, particularly the nuns, that he is a special child, Laurent possesses an awareness that sets him apart from his peers. Upon arriving at the school, he yearns to be like the other kids who simply want to enjoy themselves and make friends. However, this proves challenging for him since he has never encountered another child before. The school provides him with a valuable opportunity and is why he is reluctant to leave.
Why Isabelle Thinks Laurent Is The Messiah
Isabelle suggests that Laurent may be the savior who will save humanity from the zombie apocalypse. In episode 2, it is revealed that Laurent is her nephew, born to Isabelle's sister Lily who turned into a zombie and died while giving birth. Although it is unclear whether Laurent is immune to the zombie virus because of his unique birth circumstances, Isabelle still holds the belief that he possesses some kind of special ability.
Episode 3 unveils that Laurent's father is Quinn, Isabelle's former boyfriend and the current owner of a post-apocalyptic nightclub. This revelation leads to a conversation between Isabelle and Daryl, where Daryl suggests that Isabelle's desire for Laurent to be special may stem from the loss of her sister during childbirth. It is possible that despite Laurent's extraordinary background, he is just an ordinary child placed on a pedestal by those seeking hope.
Episode 4 of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon will likely shift its focus on Laurent, as Daryl and Isabelle embark on a search for him. It is possible that additional events relating to Laurent will further support the notion of him being a Messiah-like figure. However, as the series progresses, the true nature of Laurent's role, whether he is indeed a Messiah or simply a regular boy, will likely be revealed.