Are Rick Grimes & The Walking Dead Reunion Finally Happening?

Andrew Lincoln has officially confirmed that discussions are underway about bringing Rick Grimes back. In a BBC interview in September 2025, he said “there’s a conversation happening right now”.

That’s the first direct signal from Lincoln himself since The Ones Who Live wrapped. And it changes the tone from rumor to something real.

What His Return Could Look Like

Lincoln is open to returning and has a direction in mind. He wants a more grounded version of Rick again. Smaller scale, survival-focused and closer to early The Walking Dead.

That matters. Recent spinoffs leaned into bigger conflicts and military-style storytelling. A shift back to raw survival could reset the character and the franchise tone.

AMC Is Exploring a Major Crossover

Behind the scenes, Scott M. Gimple has been hinting at something bigger. According to insider reports, AMC is actively exploring a crossover that could reunite Rick with Daryl Dixon, Morgan, Maggie, Carol and Negan.

Two storylines are currently running: Daryl Dixon and Dead City.

A crossover would tie them together, and Rick is the missing piece.

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When an Announcement Could Happen

Industry speculation points to summer 2026, with major events like Comic-Con seen as the most likely stage. There’s also growing belief that plans could slip into late 2026, depending on how current productions and negotiations unfold.

The timing lines up with a bigger shift inside the franchise. Dead City is now rumored (though not confirmed) to end with the third season, while Daryl Dixon is already confirmed to wrap with season 4, which would clear space for a larger, unified storyline.

Nothing is confirmed yet. But the window is starting to take shape.

Cameos and Continuation Plans

There’s also growing talk that Rick could appear briefly before any full return. Possible cameos in Daryl Dixon or Dead City would help connect the timelines.

At the same time, AMC is reconsidering the future of The Ones Who Live. Originally a limited series, its success has opened the door to a second season or a continuation under a new title.

Why This Matters

Rick Grimes is still the center of this universe. His last appearance ended with a family reunion, not closure.

If these talks turn into a deal, it won’t just be the return of a legendary character but also could mark the end of The Walking Dead franchise.