Showrunner David Zabel Teases Daryl’s Struggle to Protect Laurent from Extremism in Both the Pouvoir and the Nest

Summary

– Daryl Dixon’s season 2 conflict revolves around two opposing forms of extremism from the Pouvoir and the Nest.

– Daryl’s primary focus is protecting Laurent from being shaped by any singular ideology.

– Carol’s return to search for Daryl, along with ongoing conflicts, will further complicate the story.

As The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon heads into its second season, showrunner David Zabel has shed light on Daryl’s new conflict. After choosing to stay in France at the end of season 1, Daryl (played by Norman Reedus) will find himself navigating the extremist ideologies of both the Pouvoir and the Nest. According to Zabel, Daryl’s primary concern will be ensuring Laurent (Louis Puech Scigliuzzi) doesn’t get swept up in one-sided thinking, as he’s being raised by Isabelle (Clémence Poésy) and the Nest to be a messiah-like figure in the post-apocalyptic world.

In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Zabel explained how Daryl’s skepticism about extremism plays a significant role in season 2:

“The totality of the story is that extremism is bad, and any version of extremism is dangerous. Genet [and the Pouvoir] is a certain kind of extremism, and without giving too much away, Losang and the Nest represent a different kind of seemingly benevolent extremism.”

Zabel elaborated on Daryl’s perspective, noting that while he may not be caught up in grand ideologies, he’s deeply concerned about Laurent’s well-being. “Daryl is by nature a doubter in a healthy way… It’s very personal for Daryl. He doesn’t really care about the ideas or the concepts as much as he cares about this little boy [Laurent] who’s being pulled in one direction, and he doesn’t think that’s the best thing for him.”

What Zabel’s Statement Means for Season 2

Season 2 will focus on Carol’s (Melissa McBride) search for Daryl and the ongoing conflict in France. Genet (Anne Charrier) is on the hunt for the Nest, and this chase will likely lead to explosive confrontations. However, the real tension might arise from Daryl’s struggle against the extremist ideologies within the Nest. As Daryl tries to shield Laurent from being shaped by a singular belief system, he could find himself at odds with those he once considered allies, including Losang (Joel de la Fuente) and his group.

How Daryl’s Inner Conflict Could Shape Future Seasons

Daryl’s skepticism about the Nest’s seemingly benevolent ways may hint at his eventual departure from France. This could set the stage for his journey to Spain, which has already been teased for Daryl Dixon season 3. As season 2 promises action-packed episodes filled with conflict, Daryl’s growing distrust of his new home and the Pouvoir’s pursuit of Laurent could fuel the show’s dramatic tension. As new episodes air, Laurent’s ultimate decision regarding his future will likely drive the story forward.