‘The Walking Dead’ season 7: Norman Reedus on keeping the dead a secret (for now)

The seventh season of “The Walking Dead” does not begin on AMC until October most likely, and as a result of that there is typically not too much in the way of press or discussion of it over the summer. Why would there be? The cast is busy filming, and you do have to give them a break from speaking to reporters at some point.

However, things are a little bit different this year because of Norman Reedus. He has a new summer series entitled “Ride with Norman Reedus” premiering starting on June 12, and we’re excited for that just to get his perspective on Americana from the back of a motorcycle. Of course, we’re also on edge to see him back as Daryl Dixon once more on the show, especially in the wake of what transpired with Negan at the end of season 6.

You wouldn’t expect Reedus to talk openly about who the infamous villain killed at the end of the season, mostly because he probably doesn’t want an AMC lawyer to show up at his door with Lucille. What may surprise you somewhat is why it is easier than you would expect for him to keep the secret under wraps. Speaking per TVLine, he comments on how the nature of what happened, and the closeness of the cast, makes it an emotional and difficult subject to broach:

“We’re a very tight-knit group down there [on location in Georgia], and we take it very personally, because we’re in it and living it … Every time you see us crying on camera, those are real tears. It’s a whole day of living that s–t.

“… And when personal things happen to you, you don’t wander around telling everybody your personal stuff. So for us, it doesn’t feel like just a spoiler, it feels like a moment that really happened. And if there’s a death involved, it’s kinda weird to talk about it. It’s like going to our friend’s funeral or going possibly to our own funeral! It’s not like, ‘Hey, how are you? Want a selfie? Let me tell you about the funeral I was just at… ’”

Reedus makes a great point, and more than that he offers up a solid reminder that these cast members are more than just mere employees of the show. They are people, and as a result of that have their own thoughts and feelings that have to be considered.

As noted, there will not be too much definite news on “The Walking Dead” anytime soon, but that shouldn’t stop you from heading over here and checking out our archive! Also, sign up over at this link to secure some other updates on all we cover via email courtesy of our CarterMatt Newsletter. (Photo: AMC.)