Walking Dead Fans May Not Have Seen the Last of King Ezekiel as Khary Payton Hints at More Story to Come
Summary
– Khary Payton, who portrayed King Ezekiel, shared his belief that there’s more to explore with the character
– Payton’s personal commitment to family is a factor, as he plans to spend time with his kids before reprising his role
– The Walking Dead franchise continues expanding, making a return for Ezekiel a real possibility
Khary Payton recently hinted at a possible return to The Walking Dead universe, bringing hope to fans eager to see more of King Ezekiel’s story. Speaking at New York Comic Con, Payton revealed that he believes Ezekiel has unfinished stories to tell, suggesting the character’s absence from the current spin-off series may be temporary.
Payton played King Ezekiel Sutton from Season 7 in 2016 until the original series concluded with Season 11 in 2022. Despite Ezekiel’s absence from The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, where Carol has reappeared, Payton believed that Ezekiel could return to the franchise eventually.
While promoting Teen Titans Go!, Payton explained his choice to stay with family, especially his children, and why Ezekiel has yet to return. He shared that his daughter wanted him to stay home, saying, “Dad, you can’t leave.” Payton is focused on spending time with them, hinting that Ezekiel’s story may pick up once this personal chapter of his life concludes.
“[Ezekiel is] off raising his kids for a couple of years — I mean me, Khary, is off raising his kids,” he explained. Payton believes there’s a strong chance Ezekiel’s story will continue, noting, “I get the feeling…Ezekiel has stories to tell.”
Potential Timing for King Ezekiel’s Return
While the actor’s family commitment suggests it could be a while before Ezekiel returns, the ever-growing Walking Dead franchise keeps fans hopeful. With Daryl Dixon and other spin-offs already continuing the series’ legacy, there could be a place for Ezekiel if these shows progress further.
Given Ezekiel’s established relationships within the franchise, such as his marriage to Carol, there’s ample room to bring him back when the timing aligns. With Rick and Michonne recently reunited in Alexandria during The Ones Who Live, Ezekiel could easily cross paths with them again in future stories.
The Walking Dead franchise continues to expand, and it’s clear that Ezekiel’s potential return remains a possibility for seasons down the line.
