Hi everyone, Bryan here….
The Walking Dead really brought zombies into the mainstream, mostly from its AMC series that is still going strong and is one of the most watched cable series ever. Back in 2003, Robert Kirkman began writing the comic books the TV series is based on. Cut to present day, there are currently 169 issues. At San Diego Comic-Con, Kirkman announced that he is finally ending the comic book series. He didn’t give a date yet, but it will be soon and has had the idea for a while now.
“I think about two or three years ago, I had a pretty good idea for a definitive ending,” he told those in attendance. “I have known that since then and been working towards that, so I know exactly where I’m going and what’s gonna happen when I get there.”
Kirkman also said that the ending is top secret and hasn’t even written it down yet as a precaution that it wouldn’t get out. A while ago, he thought he wanted to end the series, but he still had more to say. Now though, he has the ending. He knows what he wants to do with the ending, and is actively working the story to that goal.
The end of the comic book series will not mean that AMC will cancel the TV show. There is a ton of material they haven’t even gotten to in the show from the book, and with the strong ratings each season, there is no end in sight for the series. Kirkman went on to say that he’s having trouble keeping things interesting in the comics, as they’ve already been there, done that before.
He keeps having to think up new things that haven’t been done yet. “It’s actually more difficult to write The Walking Dead than its ever been because we’ve done a lot of stuff,” he explained. “To be able to top yourself, and keep things fresh, and keep things interesting… It gets harder and harder and harder as you go. Knowing what the end game is and working towards that, makes it a little bit easier.”
The comic books have had an amazing run. It’s been around for 14 years and has spawned award winning tv shows, video games, action figures, and has inspired many filmmakers and creators to make their own zombie product. Kirkman hasn’t let anyone down, and I imagine the ending will be fulfilling and satisfying. If you’ve never read the books, I highly suggest you do. I bet there are 12 issues left.