Why The Walking Dead Has Endured for Twelve Years

The success of The Walking Dead is a phenomenon worth studying. Originally airing for twelve glorious years, along with several spin-offs, the show managed to outlast numerous productions that were initially more promising. By 2013, it had become one of the most talked-about series, rivaling franchises like The Game of Thrones.

Pattern and Boredom

Some maintained that the show's narrative began to show repetition. A typical storyline would involve the protagonists establishing a new settlement, dealing with zombies and antagonists, characters would meet their demise, and a final battle would ensue. The group would then continue their survival journey in search of new territories. This pattern created a sense of familiarity, and eventually, boredom. However, it didn't stop the American cinema network (AMC) from continuing to churn out numerous spin-offs, underscoring the show's enduring appeal.

Why It's So Popular

Starting Strong and Maintaining Momentum

It's important to note that The Walking Dead started with a bang, kicking off to an excellent start and maintaining its momentum till at least the third season. The show's first season is often described as fantastic, with writing that captivates the audience, where zombies were merely a backdrop. The human drama took center stage, creating the most compelling reason to watch.

Perfect Timing

The show began airing in 2010 during a zeitgeist that included popular zombie films like 28 Days Later (2002), 28 Weeks Later (2007), World War Z (2013), and Warm Bodies (2013). Additionally, post-apocalyptic dystopias like War of the Worlds (2005), Children of Men (2006), and Hunger Games (2012) were also trending. The Walking Dead found its niche in these popular genres, fitting comfortably into both.

Compelling Storytelling and Characters

Unlike other popular zombie movies that focused on the downfall of civilization, The Walking Dead was more concerned with what happened after the outbreak. It explored themes of rebuilding, survival, and the complex interactions between the survivors. The driving force of the story was not the looming threat of extinction but rather the survival and interactions of these complex characters.

The Perfectly Zombified Show

Despite garnering significant fanbase and enduring for a decade, some viewers and critics ultimately agreed that the show had outstayed its welcome. Yet, it's fitting that a show about zombies would itself become a lasting legend, reminiscent of its central conflict - the relentless and yet relentless struggle to persist.

From its inception, The Walking Dead captured the hearts and minds of countless viewers, and even its eventual end provided a fitting finale for an enduring zombie saga.