Norman Reedus and the team discuss filming in France, moving to Spain, and future possibilities
Summary
– The new setting of France has creatively energized The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon.
– Season 3 will introduce a transition from France to Spain, bringing a unique, western vibe.
– The showrunners are considering more European locations, keeping the series fresh.
The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon cast and crew recently shared insights at New York Comic-Con, discussing the impact of the series’ European locations and teasing what’s to come. With the show moving from France to Spain for its third season, the decision has added an artistic depth and invigorated the franchise, departing from the familiar landscapes of Georgia.
Norman Reedus, who plays Daryl Dixon, admitted he was taken aback when he first learned about filming in France. “I kind of stopped for a second and thought, wait, what?” he shared. The unexpected locations have transformed the storytelling, with sites like the Louvre and the Catacombs almost becoming characters. Director Dan Percival’s European sensibilities have helped reshape the visual and atmospheric tone of the show, making it feel different from The Walking Dead while still connecting to its legacy.
The cast emphasized how the unique locations brought visual and cultural challenges to the story. Producer Greg Nicotero explained, “The task was imagining something that would be beautiful visually but still justify the characters’ presence there.” France’s ancient architecture and winding streets added layers of complexity, while the move to Spain in Season 3 promises a “spaghetti western vibe,” complete with dusty, windswept towns.
Reedus and his co-stars also hinted at more surprises. While the finale of Season 2 will explain the group’s journey to Spain, there is an “interesting stop” along the way featuring Steven Merchant in a guest role. Spain’s distinct setting offers fresh opportunities for storytelling, with the show exploring what survival and hope look like in this new world.
The conversation extended beyond Season 3, discussing the show’s future. Showrunner David Zabel is open to exploring more of Europe, emphasizing that each location infuses the series with new energy. “We love being in Spain, but we’re thinking about where else the show could go,” he said. The idea of continuing to reinvent the show through different cultures and settings excites both the cast and crew. While returning to America is an option, the possibilities in Europe seem endless.
For now, fans can look forward to the characters’ adventures in Spain, which promise to blend the old and the new in ways that could redefine the franchise. Reedus said, “There’s a lot of story to tell in Spain, and it’s only getting more exciting.”
