Rick Grimes
Although British actor Andrew Lincoln has portrayed Rick Grimes exceptionally well, fans of The Walking Dead often overlook the differences between his character in the series and the comic version. In the comics, Rick is depicted as older and more rugged than his on-screen counterpart. Notably, in the comic version, Rick loses an arm (due to the actions of the Governor).
Shane Walsh
Jon Bernthal effectively brought the character of Shane Walsh, Rick’s best friend, to life. Shane, a police officer, had a complicated relationship with Lori, Rick’s wife, believing Rick had died in the hospital after a zombie attack. The struggle for Rick’s survival created a challenging dynamic for Shane. However, in the comics, Shane is not killed by Rick; instead, he is shot by Carl, Rick’s son, in a moment of desperate self-defense.
The Governor
One of the most significant changes from the comic to the TV adaptation is the portrayal of The Governor, played by David Morrissey in seasons 3 and 4. In the comics, The Governor is depicted as a more grotesque figure, with a bushy beard and a menacing demeanor. He inflicts severe violence, particularly during his encounters with Michonne, where he tortures her in a horrific manner. In contrast, the TV version of The Governor is somewhat sanitized and less menacing.
Carl Grimes
Carl is a child who grows up in a post-apocalyptic world filled with zombies. In the comics, he also suffers through traumatic events that leave him scarred, both mentally and physically. This depiction contrasts with the TV version, where Carl retains a more youthful and innocent appearance, lacking the darker attributes present in the comic series.
Michonne
Zimbabwean actress Danai Gurira has excellently portrayed Michonne, a strong female warrior wielding a katana. Many fans note that her character has developed uniquely, showcasing different traits compared to her comic counterpart. Michonne’s relationships, particularly with Andrea, have also evolved in ways that made her one of the most beloved characters on the show.
Negan
Negan is one of the most anticipated characters among fans during the final part of season 6. Actor Jeffrey Dean Morgan, although not fitting the comic’s description of Negan, delivers a powerful performance that instills fear and respect. His portrayal of Negan is often considered more charismatic and captivating than the comic version.
Carol Peletier
If Danai Gurira accurately portrayed Michonne, Melissa McBride’s portrayal of Carol is entirely different from the comic version. In the comics, Carol is a meek character, but in the show, she evolves into a fierce warrior. She has proven to be a crucial asset to Rick’s group, earning the moniker “One Woman Army” for her combat skills and resilience.
Daryl Dixon
Daryl is a character unique to the TV series, yet he has become a fan favorite and an indispensable part of the show. Many fans have declared that if Daryl dies, they would stop watching The Walking Dead, which has made producers cautious about his fate in the series.
