Fans want to know why Andrew Lincoln is leaving The Walking Dead this season. The answer is a pretty simple one, as the actor wants to move on to other things in his life.
It had been rumored that Lincoln might leave after Season 8 of the show, but he signed on for a few more episodes during Season 9 to allow writers to wrap up his story.
AMC has made a really big deal about the final episodes of Rick Grimes, with Season 9 Episode 5 serving as the last one. There are a lot of Walking Dead spoilers available for that episode in case anyone wants to read ahead. It all takes place during the very next episode to be shown on AMC.
Just keep moving. #TWD is on TONIGHT at 9/8c! pic.twitter.com/z03jfqUoQs
— The Walking Dead AMC (@WalkingDead_AMC) November 4, 2018
Why is Andrew Lincoln leaving The Walking Dead?
While it might make an interesting story if Lincoln was frustrated with the writing or if he wanted too much money for another season of the show, but neither of those were the case.
Instead, Lincoln cited family as the reason for leaving the AMC hit. He has two children, his family lives in another country, and he has been involved with TWD for nine years now.
Viewers are definitely going to miss Rick Grimes, especially since the character won’t be around for the second half of Season 9. It will open the door for a lot of new characters and plot developments on the show, which also isn’t necessarily a bad thing for a program like this one.
This is humbling and a validation for many late nights. Thanks for the #stuffandthangs AMC. Only feels right to share this letter from Andrew Lincoln on his departure with you all #TWDFamily ❤️ #EndofanEra pic.twitter.com/NBY0Lraisw
— Kirsten (@KirstenAcuna) October 25, 2018
Make sure to tune in on November 4 to see the final episode of Andrew Lincoln as Rick Grimes. While it has not been a secret that Lincoln is leaving The Walking Dead, it could still be a very emotional exit for one of the more recognizable faces on television.
The Walking Dead airs Sunday nights at 9/8c on AMC.