The Walking Dead: Andrew Lincoln Confirms Exit, Trailer & More!

Andrew Lincoln is definitely leaving The Walking Dead. 

The actor confirmed as much during the San Diego Comic-Con panel for the AMC hit. 

“This will be my last season, playing the part of Rick Grimes,” he shared with a packed room.

“I love this show. It means everything to me. I love the people who make this show. I promise not to cry — I’ve done enough crying on screen.”

“I’m particularly fond of the people who watch this show, you people,” he continued. 

“This has been the most extraordinary, beautiful experience of my experience… So I just want to thank you.”

Lincoln added that his “relationship with Mr. Grimes is far from over. And a large part of me will always be a machete-wielding, sheriff’s deputy from London, England."

"What a thing. I’m really, really excited about this season. … This has always been an ensemble, and it will continue to be an ensemble. No one is bigger than the story.”

It's bittersweet to see the show's leading man depart, but it could be the nudge in the right direction the series needs. 

The official trailer for The Walking Dead Season 9 shows that Rick has aged, Maggie has given birth, and the communities are struggling to co-exist with one another. 

Oh, and Negan is still in prison, but he and Rick have a chat about the way things have changed in the community. 

But that's not enough for Negan who wants to know when he's getting to view what's changed during his time inside. 

There are action sequences, a bevy of new characters, and some downright shocking moments. 

Remember you can watch The Walking Dead online right here via TV Fanatic. 

The Walking Dead returns Sunday, October 7th.