We’ve seen Andrew Lincoln give many different performances as Rick Grimes on The Walking Dead. It’s crazy to think Lincoln has played the same character since 2010, but still manages to keep it fresh.
Lincoln’s pretty impressed with what he’s done so far, too. In fact, Lincoln took a moment to reflect on his work on the show during an interview with ComicBook.com. He told the publication he’s explored many different aspects of Rick, but he’s ready for more in The Walking Dead Season 8.
"I mean, the thing that I've always been so thrilled about playing this role is the writers and the gang at AMC have always been very keen on pushing it in different directions and exploring different areas of who Rick Grimes is, which has been one of the great thrills," Lincoln said. "This has been one of the more unpleasant aspects of his psyche, this submissive version, but certainly the first eight would be not a pleasant experience but it was a great challenge. A good acting challenge. And certainly I enjoyed having a bit more bite, bit more grit in my belly, sharing scenes with Jeffrey Dean Morgan."
Think about it. We’ve seen a bearded Rick whose only goal is to survive. We’ve seen a more calm, democratic Rick who thinks about the good of others before his own safety. We’ve seen Rick the father, who will do anything to protect his kids, which includes biting the necks off people who try to hurt them. Lincoln believes the dynamic between Rick and Negan will be “a lot more fun” to explore in upcoming episodes.
"I think it's going to be a lot more fun Season 8, pitted against him with a bit more push back," Lincoln told ComicBook.com.
The Negan threat will force Rick to use all of his past experiences. He’ll take what he needs and do what he thinks is right for the wellbeing of all, even if people disagree with his tactics. Negan and Rick are a lot more alike than they might seem at first glance. Rick’s one bad day away from becoming Negan, but he’s managed to keep his humanity so far. Who knows how the All Out War storyline will affect him?
The Walking Dead Season 8 premieres on AMC this October.
