WARNING: Spoilers for Fear the Walking Dead season 8, episode 3
The daughters of the two characters who started The Walking Dead universe have become the future of the franchise. In addition to being two of The Walking Dead’s most important heroes, Rick Grimes and Morgan Jones are remembered as the characters who kicked off the story in the first place. The very first episode of the main series was centered on the two of them.
Of course, the franchise has grown beyond Rick and Morgan. Both have been absent for long periods of time, granting other protagonists chances to shine. However, they’re both of great relevance to The Walking Dead world. Morgan continues to lead his own show, and Rick is about to make a comeback through a spinoff that’ll feature him alongside Michonne. How much longer their stories will go on remains to be seen, but it seems that even when their time in the franchise ends, their legacies will live on in other ways. It’s become apparent that Mo and Judith have the potential to take their places one day.
Judith Was A Highlight Of The Walking Dead’s Ending
Judith’s importance was highlighted in The Walking Dead’s final season, particularly its closing chapters. In spite of her young age, Judith was a key factor in multiple storylines, one of which being the conflict with the Commonwealth. She helped drive the story of The Walking Dead series finale, which picked up with her getting shot by Pamela Milton. Her injury had a profound impact on those around her, not the least of which being Daryl. The impact she’s had on The Walking Dead’s main characters was evident on multiple occasions, including Daryl’s efforts to save her and the letter left for her by Negan.
Fear The Walking Dead Is Making Mo A New Hero
Similarly, Fear the Walking Dead is turning Morgan’s daughter into a hero in her own right. Thanks to a seven-year time skip, the spinoff has been able to make Mo a central figure in the battle with PADRE, the show’s final antagonists. Though Mo initially expressed a strong loyalty to PADRE, it was indicated early on that Mo was never a good fit for the villainous organization. Three episodes into season 8, and Mo has already chosen sides, successfully overcoming years of brainwashing orchestrated by PADRE. Not only that, but she took a massive risk by putting herself between PADRE’s forces and Madison in Fear the Walking Dead season 8, episode 3.
In doing so, Mo proved that she has an unwavering moral compass. Like her father, Mo is deeply devoted to her principles. How far she’s willing to go do to what’s right is evidenced by that moment, considering what she was giving up. Although Mo doubted she’d be killed, she still put a great deal on the line regardless. By angering PADRE, she’s likely thrown away any chance she had at regaining her old life at PADRE. For better or worse, she’s a member of Morgan’s group. That sacrifice goes to show that Mo will be a force for good in The Walking Dead’s future.
RELATED: PADRE Answers A Major Question About The Walking Dead’s Ending
Judith & Mo Can Lead The Walking Dead’s Future Generation
The shows’ characterizations of Mo and Judith are good signs for their futures in the franchise. Judith, for instance, has demonstrated qualities that speak volumes about the kind of person she’ll be when she grows up. Her ability to leave lasting impressions on people like Negan, as well as her deeply-held convictions, show that she has what it takes to be a leader. Mo, on the other hand, hasn’t received the same level of development yet, but her willingness to stand up to Shrike to save her friends is a testament to her strength. Clearly, both are future leaders.
Who they are as characters are good indicators of the roles they could have, but that alone isn’t what positions to take the reins of The Walking Dead franchise. There’s also the current direction of the overarching narrative that could determine what comes next for them. Rick being a large part of AMC’s plans enables both Mo and Judith to have futures. As his daughter, it’s hard to imagine Rick’s arc ending without Judith’s involvement, meaning that more stories with her are likely to happen. Mo too could wind up returning, especially if the franchise keeps Morgan around after Fear the Walking Dead ends. If Morgan gets a reunion with Rick, Mo could be along for the ride as well.
