This article contains spoilers for Fear the Walking Dead season 8.
Summary
Troy's comeback on Fear the Walking Dead symbolizes the possible downfall of Madison, as their rivalry resurfaces and an unexciting conclusion is avoided.
The demise of Madison would serve as a sorrowful but suitable conclusion to her narrative, given her past selflessness and it would add depth to the Troy/Madison storyline.
Madison's demise has the potential to positively impact Troy, potentially bringing about a profound transformation in him and giving their intense rivalry an unexpectedly optimistic conclusion. The unexpected revival of Troy Otto, a character presumed dead, in the mid-season return of Fear the Walking Dead left viewers stunned. However, this twist of events further contributes to Madison's impending demise, which could occur by the series finale. After eight seasons, Fear the Walking Dead is finally concluding, currently airing season 8, part 2. The final stretch has commenced with a gripping start, as episode 7 of season 8, titled "Anton," showcases Troy's revenge against PADRE and his chilling promise of committing murder.
Fear TWD's Madison Vs. Troy Battle Can't End The Same Way
Despite Troy's return in Fear the Walking Dead, it is Madison who is profoundly affected. Their paths crossed in season 3, where Troy initially singled out Madison as his ultimate target, only for Madison to retaliate by killing him. However, Troy's unexpected reappearance revives their rivalry, leaving Madison with the realization that the dynamics will be different this time. Fear the Walking Dead season 8 offers no assurance that good will triumph over evil, and ultimately, whoever meets their demise will likely remain deceased.It is evident that Troy's return spells out Madison's demise as this second confrontation between them cannot culminate in the same manner as the previous one. From a narrative perspective, it would be rather dull to resurrect Troy, only for Madison to eliminate him in a manner too reminiscent of season 3. Moreover, it would be highly unlikely for Troy to underestimate Madison or allow her to get too close. Given that Madison emerged victorious the last time they faced off, it is highly probable that Troy has devised various strategies to outsmart Madison, ensuring that he does not suffer any harm or meet his demise at her hands once again.
So, if Madison is unable to kill Troy once again, the most significant alternative would be for Madison herself to perish. Although there is a possibility for both characters to survive or meet their demise, neither of these options appears to be tragic enough for Fear the Walking Dead. In a previous season, Madison made the selfless sacrifice of her life for the sake of her children, and even though she did not actually die, she has been in close proximity to death before, and for justified reasons. Ultimately, it would make logical sense for Madison to meet her end at the hands of Troy if it were for the greater good. While her death would undoubtedly be distressing, it would add intrigue and dynamism to the Troy/Madison storyline.
Madison Was Already Likely To Die In Fear The Walking Dead's Ending
Madison's connection with Troy in Fear the Walking Dead may be seen as a foreshadowing of her impending demise. Her fate in the series has been grim from the beginning for several reasons. As a beloved character, her death would have a profound impact on viewers. Moreover, she has consistently represented a moral compass, making her loss even more emotionally charged. Additionally, Madison has already experienced a pseudo-death and subsequent resurrection, further emphasizing the significance of her potential final sacrifice. Considering these factors, it would not be surprising for Madison to meet her ultimate fate in a grand, selfless act.
With Madison's return to Fear the Walking Dead season 8 as the main protagonist, her departure should be extraordinary, and her death appears to be the ideal culmination of her story. In bringing Madison and Troy back together, their lingering rivalry becomes evident, and unfortunately, death seems to be the only plausible resolution. Nevertheless, Madison's demise on Fear the Walking Dead holds significance, as it has the potential to trigger a series of events that will ensure her heroic actions are not in vain.
Theory: Madison's Death Makes Troy A Better Person
One potential positive outcome of Madison's death in Fear the Walking Dead is the potential for Troy to undergo personal growth. As the main antagonist in season 8, Troy will need to be developed into a more complex and impactful character, with his relationship with Madison serving as a pivotal focus. Despite their current enmity, the series could explore their relationship to a point where Madison's influence brings about positive change in Troy, even if it ultimately leads to her own demise. Her moral compass could have a profound effect on him, pushing him to become a better person either during or after her death. Without certainty, it is even possible that Troy may not be the one to kill Madison. Although he enters season 8 as a villain, boasting about having killed Alicia, the tension between them could potentially diminish in the final episodes. It is conceivable that Troy and Madison may find common ground or join forces against a greater threat. Regardless of the circumstances, Fear the Walking Dead could potentially have Madison meet her demise independently of Troy, prompting his transformation into a better person. Such a consequence would justify Madison's death and provide their rivalry with an unexpectedly positive conclusion.
Madison's Death Would Be The Perfect End For Her Story
Ultimately, Madison's demise would be the perfect conclusion to her story. Her unexpected return in season 8 was a fortunate occurrence, considering her previous death. While it would have been more appropriate for her to remain deceased, her comeback managed to captivate audiences and propel the series towards a climactic finale. Therefore, it would be most fitting to once again send Madison back to the realm of the deceased after season 8. This would establish her as a vengeful angel of sorts, appearing when necessary and departing once her duty is fulfilled. Overall, this would solidify Madison's status as a revered and iconic character in Fear the Walking Dead.
Although character deaths are typically not favored in television narratives, Madison's demise in Fear the Walking Dead could be a true triumph. It would provide her with a momentous and significant conclusion, bringing an air of finality to the series. Regardless of whether Troy is responsible for Madison's demise or not, her impending death is certain to have a profound impact on him. Ultimately, Fear the Walking Dead season 8 is heading towards a conclusion that promises both murder and redemption.