The Impact of Glenn’s Death on The Walking Dead: A Critical Analysis

Glenn’s death on The Walking Dead, while a significant event in the show’s narrative, did not necessarily ruin the entire series. However, it did alienate many viewers due to how it was handled. Let's delve into some of the reasons why this particular death left a lasting impact on both die-hard fans and casual viewers alike.

Why Glenn's Death Was Controversial

The show-runners made a number of decisions that significantly affected viewer engagement. One of the most notable was the portrayal of Negan. With his extreme cruelty and disregard for human life, Negan's character became too villainous for the series. This made it difficult to envision any form of redemptive arc, which ultimately resonated poorly with audiences.

The death of Carl, another long-time fan favorite, also contributed to the division within the fanbase. While it was tough to transition Carl from a young and innocent character to a more mature and complex one, Chandler Riggs' performance earned praise for successfully capturing Carl's transformation. However, the loss of this beloved character undoubtedly left a significant emotional impact on viewers.

The Over-Emphasis on Girl-Power

Another contentious issue in the series was the emphasis on girl-power. Despite considering TWD to be somewhat progressive, the show's handling of various Black male characters suffered disproportionate fates. Michonne, for instance, initially struggled to shoulder the mantle of leadership, making it challenging for the audience to genuinely invest in her leadership role.

The Handling of Glenn's Death and Other Character Deaths

Ultimately, it was the manner in which Glenn’s death was executed that most clearly betrayed the show’s diminishing quality. A significant element of the controversy surrounding Glenn’s death involved the show’s strategic misdirection and the subsequent "fakeout."

First, there was a comical fakeout where a companion of Glenn's was shot and killed, leading to a close-up of what appeared to be Glenn screaming in agony as his insides spilled out. However, four episodes later, it was revealed that Glenn was not killed at all and that another character's blood and guts were mistakenly attributed to him. This cheap trick and the subsequent reveal of Glenn's "real" death - a brutal scene where he was beaten with a barbed bat - severely tested the trust between the creators and the audience.

Added to this was the cliffhanger nature of Glenn's death, which left the audience in suspense for months before the resolution. For many fans, this unnecessary delay and suspense felt manipulative, making them question the show’s commitment to storytelling authenticity.

Conclusion

In summary, while the death of a beloved character always has significant implications for viewer engagement, the way in which The Walking Dead handled Glenn's death in particular played a crucial role in its reception. A more thoughtful and respectful approach to character deaths could have alleviated some of the backlash and preserved the series' legacy in the hearts and minds of its audience.