Photo Credit: TV Geek Talk/Mary Powers
Whenever I attend an event like Walker Stalker Con, it’s not really the cast I look forward to talking with the most. Instead, it’s the Executive Producers, the costume designers, and all the people who work the magic and make a series like The Walking Dead the powerhouse that it is today. One of my personal favorites is TWD Executive Producer and special effects guru, Greg Nicotero. If you think back to some of the most intense and memorable episodes of The Walking Dead (including last week’s epic “Thank You”), chances are Nicotero had a big hand in it. And, every time they have to craft a gut-wrenching death scene and give a character a proper send-off, guess who they call? Yep, Nicotero again.
Besides being one of the best in the industry, there’s one other thing that’s so great about this guy — he’s truly passionate about his work. The man clearly loves his job, and that is clear in the sheer perfection of every scene that Nicotero works on. But you don’t have to take my word for it — check out the below quick takes from Greg’s panel that took place this afternoon at Walker Stalker Con Atlanta.
ON CREATING NEW WALKERS, TOPPING HIMSELF, AND THE UPCOMING “WHEEL WELL” WALKER
ON HIS ROLE IN THE “EVIL DEAD” FRANCHISE
ON THE USE OF DRONES IN SEASON 6 TO GIVE THE SHOW A BIGGER PRESENCE
After Sunday’s shocking episode, everyone who was planning on attending Walker Stalker was forbidden to ask the cast or production team any questions about season 6 and what’s to come. Obviously, the PR team wanted to plug any potential leaks of spoilers about the remainder of the season and specifically about plot developments surrounding the Glenn Rhee arc. However, as soon as a fan asked Greg the question about which character he can relate the most to and he responded with Glenn, I knew. His own response opened the door for more Glenn questions, and sure enough, the very next question was spot-on about that effed-up dumpster fail. Check out what he had to say:
As some of you may know, not only is Nicotero the go-to man for scenes with very large groups of walkers, but he’s also the 1st guy they call when it’s time for a character to bow out. If you go back and look at some of the episodes with big, memorable deaths, check the credits. If you do, there’s a good chance Nicotero directed them. Amy’s death scene in season 1 (in fact, Greg played the zombie who bit Amy). And, of course, last week’s episode depicting Nicholas’ (and allegedly Glenn’s) death. This has become such a regular thing that he is often referred to as the show’s “grim reaper.” And, why should this make you nervous? Well, because Greg is directing the season 6 finale! Nothing is guaranteed, of course, but I don’t think it would be outrageous to start taking bets on who won’t be making it to season 7.
The Walking Dead airs on Sundays at 9/8c on AMC.
