New Walking Dead Episode Triggers Painful Memories with Rick Callback

In the latest episode of “The Ones Who Live,” the spinoff of “The Walking Dead,” old wounds are reopened as Rick and Michonne’s return brings back painful memories. The episode centers on Rick’s dilemma: return to his family in Alexandria or stay with the Civic Republic Military. This decision becomes more complicated when he learns about RJ, his long-lost son.

The episode heavily focuses on Rick’s role as a father, making viewers think about Carl, his original son from “The Walking Dead.” Carl’s controversial death still stings, especially as his absence is felt in the story, with Judith taking over his role. The mention of Carl in the episode only serves as a painful reminder of his unjust demise.

In “The Ones Who Live,” Carl’s absence still hurts.

Carl’s death hits Rick hard, and in “The Ones Who Live” episode 4, it’s clear it’s still on his mind. Rick blames the CRM for “taking” Carl from him, saying he used to see Carl in his dreams, but then one day he was gone. It’s like the CRM stole the last connection he had to Carl.

The CRM’s strict rules and secrets make it even worse. They treat people like robots, especially Rick, who’s been through a lot. Remembering Carl helped Rick get through tough times, but as time passed, those memories faded, making the pain of Carl’s death come back strong.

This keeps Carl’s memory alive in Rick’s story. Rick’s still hurting from losing Carl, and he’s scared of losing Michonne and Judith the same way. Staying with the CRM lets him feel like he’s protecting his family without risking their lives like Carl’s. It’s a smart way to make sure Carl’s impact on “The Walking Dead” stays strong.

Carl’s death is still a huge mistake in “The Walking Dead.”

Over the past 14 years, The Walking Dead has axed a bunch of characters, some better handled than others. But Carl Grimes’ death stands out for all the wrong reasons. Despite the emotional buildup, he just got taken out by a regular zombie bite. Pretty disappointing after eight seasons of dodging those rotten mouths.

And the timing? Couldn’t have been worse. Right in the middle of Rick’s fight against the Saviors, Carl kicks the bucket. Next thing you know, Rick’s back to plotting Negan’s downfall like nothing happened. Weird, right? Rick’s always been all about being a dad, so losing Carl without any time to grieve just feels wrong.

In the comics, Carl’s a big deal. He’s the one we watch grow up and push Rick to keep going. But in the show, they kill him off. Not cool.

Why’d they do it? Who knows? Chandler Riggs didn’t quit, so it wasn’t his call. Seems like the show just decided to get rid of him, which makes it even more confusing.

“The Ones Who Live Episode Titles and Release Dates”