‘Talking Dead’ spoilers: Tom Payne, Xander Berkeley joining Chris Hardwick tonight

We’re going to be spending a tremendous amount of time at the Hilltop tonight on “The Walking Dead,” and when you stop for a moment to consider that further, it’s really rather hard to be surprised concerning the lineup of guests who will be appearing tonight on “Talking Dead” with Chris Hardwick.

First, let’s start here with Tom Payne a.k.a. Jesus, who we figure will have a good bit to say about what he hears from Maggie and some of the other characters in terms of Negan and his plans. This is a character we haven’t got much perspective from so far through season 7, and you could say the same thing about one of our other guests in Xander Berkeley a.k.a. Gregory. We know that the series has a rather robust guest cast, and sometimes that can make things a little cluttered; in this instance, though, we rather like it since it offers you chances to see so many different unique perspectives and performances from great people.

Also, in our mind we like to envision that if there is any way whatsoever for Rick Grimes to take on the absolute threat that is Negan, it’s probably going to take him having to combine the majority of the other communities rallying together and trying to figure out a way for it to happen. It’ll also take some sort of change of thinking from Rick Grimes.

As for the celebrity guest tonight, director Kevin Smith will be joining the crew — which shouldn’t be a real shock, given that he has many AMC connections of his own via “Comic Book Men.”

Want to get some additional news and updates right now related to “The Walking Dead”? Then be sure to head over here, since that is where you can get a further sneak peek for the upcoming episode! (Photo: AMC.)