At San Diego Comic-Con 2024, AMC Networks announced that The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon has been renewed for a third season set in Spain, The Book of Carol. While this exciting news marks a new chapter for the series, the buzz is still firmly on season 2. During the Hall H panel and press conference, series stars Norman Reedus and Melissa McBride, along with cast member Louis Puech Scigliuzzi, showrunner David Zabel, and executive producer and director Greg Nicotero, delved into the developments of Season 2. They shared behind-the-scenes insights, discussed the evolution of the storyline, and highlighted the impact of the European setting on the characters and narrative.
The Walking Dead with a European Feel
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The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon – The Book of Carol marks a significant shift from the familiar American backdrop of the original series, diving headfirst into a distinctly European ambiance. This change isn’t just about setting the show in France; it’s about authentically integrating French culture and humor into the storyline. One telling example of this cultural integration is the use of the phrase “Where is Brian? Brian is in the kitchen?”
This reference, commonly used in French to English language learning materials, highlights the show’s commitment to engaging with not only Americans in its humor. David Zabel, the showrunner, emphasized the importance of this cultural authenticity: “We were all, at this table, in support of authenticity by allowing French characters to speak French when they should. And of course, if they need to communicate with our characters, then either someone’s translating or they speak enough English that they can communicate. We wanted to feel authentic, and I think that’s worked really well on the show, given there’s quite a bit of French language in it.”
This focus on authenticity is reinforced by Norman Reedus’s playful interaction with a French journalist. Reedus humorously referenced this specific joke during the press rounds, demonstrating his familiarity with the French language and culture. David Zabel also shared an amusing network note on the choice of name in the French joke: “I actually have a network note on it. It asked why it shouldn’t be something like John or Joe instead of Brian. The reason is that when French learners are taught English, they learn the phrase ‘Where’s Brian? Brian’s in the kitchen.’ So, don’t tell me Brian’s the wrong name. That’s the real reason we used it.”
Greg Nicotero, a long-time contributor to the franchise, elaborated on how this deep dive into French culture influenced the show: “We wanted the show to feel like it’s partly French, not just an American show filming in France. We embraced the culture and tried to make the French feel like it’s their show.” This approach ensures that The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon – The Book of Carol is not merely an American series set in France but a show that genuinely reflects and respects its French backdrop.
Intimate Stories with Unexpected Surprises
The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon – The Book of Carol continues to build on its unique European setting with an intimate narrative that balances action with emotional depth. Even as the show expands its ensemble cast, it aims to maintain a focus on the personal and emotional journeys of its characters. In season two, the focus sharpens on Daryl and Carol.
David Zabel highlights this shift in storytelling focus from the original series: “This show. allows us to focus on Daryl and Carol in a way that the original show didn’t because it was a big ensemble. We don’t cut away to other stories; it’s all about their characters. It gives Norman and Melissa more room to explore their characters and face new challenges, showcasing a wider range of emotions.” This intimate approach allows for a more nuanced exploration of the characters, enriching the viewer’s connection with them.
Melissa McBride highlighted the personal impact of the new setting: “One of my favorite scenes involves the connections between characters and the beautiful landscape of France. It’s like a gift wrap for new developments within Daryl. He goes places I’ve never seen before in terms of acting or the character.” The stunning French locations not only provide a visually captivating backdrop but also deepen the emotional impact of the scenes. As The Walking Dead franchise marks another year at San Diego Comic-Con, the excitement surrounding these new developments, even for established characters like Daryl, is certainly palpable.
Greg Nicotero teased that The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon – The Book of Carol holds surprises even for seasoned fans of the franchise: “One of the things I find interesting, having been part of the franchise from day one, is that Season 2 still surprises me with the choices these characters make. In the premiere episode, which I directed, there’s a scene with Melissa and Ash that took me by surprise. Even after reading the script and shooting the scene, there’s a moment where Carol makes a statement that completely shifts how you see her. It’s amazing to see the characters getting opportunities to reveal new layers, making them even more complex than we thought.”
Norman Reedus reflects on the series’ evolution: “We’re older and have learned a lot over the years. We couldn’t create the same show in Europe as we did in Georgia. We’re exploring new paths, and the show has taken on a completely different feel.” This evolution in storytelling not only introduces fresh elements but also deepens the viewer’s investment in the characters’ journeys. Reedus’s comments reflect the show’s commitment to innovation and its willingness to adapt and grow, demonstrating how location and experience can shape and redefine a beloved series.
The Walking Dead is Going to Spain
Looking ahead, Season 3 of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon will venture into Spain, expanding the apocalyptic world further. David Zabel explained the rationale behind this new setting: “Part of the fun of the show, and also what makes it cool and interesting for the audience, is seeing how a walker apocalypse has affected different parts of the world. Since there’s a constant attempt for Daryl and Carol to try to get back home, their geographical movement led them to Spain in the story.”
Dan McDermott, president of AMC Studios, expressed enthusiasm for the new setting, saying, “Sending Daryl, and then Carol, to France was such an inspired and visually striking move for this franchise, a chance to do something truly different. We can’t wait to continue the travels of this iconic duo with a third season produced and set in Spain, another beautiful country with a passionate TWD fanbase that is already buzzing with anticipation.” Scott M. Gimple, chief content officer for The Walking Dead Universe, hinted at the potential of the Spanish setting: “France made Daryl and Carol’s story into an epic poem with what we found there. What’s to come in Spain may even surpass it—and we’re so damn happy to bring the audience more of the Terrific Two alongside new compelling characters, in a yet unseen, beautiful, horrific corner of their broken world.”
Norman Reedus shared his excitement for the new season, noting, “I couldn’t be more thrilled to announce a third season and to be working side by side with the brilliant Melissa McBride. Season two is some of my favorite storytelling of this series. Watching Melissa shine along with our brilliant cast and crew has been one of my fondest memories playing this character. I hope you enjoy it as much as we did making it, and we can’t wait to keep the story going.”
Melissa McBride also expressed her anticipation for the new season, stating, “I’m really appreciating the new challenges for Daryl and Carol being so far from all they’ve ever known… what it means for them, what it brings for each of them, apart and together. There’s still so much ahead to unpack in France for the coming season two, and a breathtaking finale. And now Spain! I already know that David Zabel’s storytelling is making the most of all that is so beautiful and unique to Spain. We start shooting there in just a few weeks… such excitement looking forward!”
While the excitement for The Book of Carol’s Spanish setting is palpable, Season 2 of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon remains at the forefront, continuing to captivate audiences with its unique European flair. The revelations from the Hall H panel and press conference offer a deeper understanding of how the show has embraced its French setting and the personal growth of its characters. As we look ahead to new adventures in Spain, Season 2 stands as a testament to the series’ ability to innovate and deepen its storytelling, ensuring that fans remain engaged and eager for what’s to come.
