When Did The Walking Dead Start to Go Wrong?
The Walking Dead (TWD) has been a monumental survival show since its inception. However, like any complex narrative, the series eventually stumbled upon some notable "jump the shark" moments. In this article, we will explore these pivotal turning points, analyze the reasons behind them, and consider what they mean for the show's legacy.
Jump the Shark Moments in The Walking Dead
The term "jump the shark" originated from television, describing a point where a once-popular show begins to decline and becomes less engaging. For The Walking Dead, there were several clear indicators of this decline, starting relatively early in the series but intensifying over time.
1. The Governor's Exit and Herschel's Death
One of the first significant "jump the shark" moments in The Walking Dead was the character arc of The Governor. The storyline involving the Governor reached its peak and resolution, symbolizing the end of an era. Many fans of the series appreciated the intensity and depth of his character development. When his character was abruptly removed, it left a void that could have been filled with numerous narrative possibilities. Instead, his departure was a missed opportunity for the show to explore different avenues and refine the overall narrative.
The death of Herschel Greene, a beloved character, further contributed to this decline. Herschel's presence was critical in establishing the initial character arcs of Rick and the rest of the group. His loss was felt deeply by many viewers, but his sudden and unexpected death had a lasting impact on the show's direction.
2. The Negan Arc
Negan, the fear-sowing figure, became a central character in the latter part of the series. His character was complex and intriguing, providing a stark contrast to the previously explored antagonists. However, the show took a significant turn when Negan was put in a prison cell for an extended period of time. This afforded the narrative an opportunity to explore his backstory in-depth, allowing for deeper character development. Instead, Negan's character was sidelined, and his absence significantly altered the dynamics of the show.
When Negan was released from prison, his character seemed less engaging and somewhat disconnected from the story. This storyline choice was met with mixed reactions, with some fans appreciating the character's transformation and others feeling it was a wasted opportunity to bring Negan back to prominence.
3. Unpredictable Character Deaths
One of the most notable jumps the shark moments in The Walking Dead was the introduction of several highly controversial and corpse-unfamiliar deaths. The deaths of Glen and Abraham, as well as Carl, were both shocking and unexpected. The decision to kill off multiple popular characters in quick succession had a significant impact on the show's popularity. These sudden and shocking deaths created a sense of loss and diminished the stakes for the remaining characters, leading to a decline in viewer engagement.
The departure and return of Lauren Cohan's character, Maggie, also added to the series' decline. Maggie's removal from the show was met with disappointment, and her eventual return did not feel like a cohesive part of the narrative. This inconsistency in character arcs and storylines contributed to the diminishing appeal of the show for many viewers.
Fan reaction to these moments was often mixed, with some viewing them as necessary plot twists and others criticizing the show's direction. It's essential to note that these moments are subjective and can be perceived differently by individual viewers based on their personal preferences and attachment to the characters.
Conclusion
The Walking Dead, while initially groundbreaking and influential, eventually faced issues that affected its narrative consistency and viewer engagement. Analyzing these "jump the shark" moments provides insights into the complexities of managing a long-running, beloved series. The show's creators had to balance character development with plot progression, a challenge that can be both a boon and a curse for a story as intricate as The Walking Dead.
Despite these issues, the show remains a significant chapter in the realm of zombie entertainment, inspiring countless adaptations and debates among fans. Understanding these "jump the shark" moments allows us to appreciate the highs and lows of the series, ultimately adding to the rich legacy of The Walking Dead.