With Rick Grimes (Andrew Lincoln) departing AMC’s The Walking Dead, many were left wondering what would happen to his on-screen girlfriend, Michonne (Danai Gurira). Well, as it turns out, Season 9 is set to push the fan-favorite heroine into a leadership role.
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According to TVLine‘s Michael Ausiello, the katana-wielding warrior will have her opportunity to shine, not just with Rick departing, but the Hilltop’s Maggie Greene (Lauren Cohan) as well, making room for new leaders. When asked by a fan if they should tune in once Rick exits the show, the answer was simple: “If you’re a fan of Danai Gurira’s Michonne, you should.”
He added that she “rises to a position of power,” as told to him by new showrunner Angela Kang, who also promised it would be “fun seeing where Michonne goes this season.” Following Carl’s (Chandler Riggs) death, many speculated she’d take on a bigger role, although at that point in time, fans didn’t know about the other characters that were set to leave.
With Daryl (Norman Reedus) also said to be poised to take on a leadership position as well, all fans want to see is just how they’ll be phased in. In the comics, Michonne was Rick’s right-hand general at Alexandria, and not his lover, as on the show.
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She eventually joined a new society called the Commonwealth, but in the TV series she’s still reeling from Carl’s passing, and also trying to find a way to be there for Rick. In other words, once Rick leaves, it’s anyone’s guess as to why she’d be interested in leading, as she’s always shied away from such a responsibility.
The Walking Dead stars Andrew Lincoln, Norman Reedus, Lauren Cohan, Danai Gurira, Melissa McBride, Lennie James, Alanna Masterson, Josh McDermitt, Christian Serratos, and Jeffrey Dean Morgan. The series returns on Oct. 9 for its ninth season on AMC.
