The Walking Dead FYC Q And A! Andrew Lincoln! Norman Reedus! Melissa McBride! Danai Gurira! And More!

One of the most brilliant series to hit the airwaves in the past few years has to be The Walking Dead. It’s one of my top favorite shows and last night myself and Suddenly Susan were treated to a FYC screening and q and a with the cast.

On the panel were Robert Kirkman, Scott Gimple, Greg Nicotero, Andrew Lincoln, Norman Reedus, Steven Yeun, Danai Gurira, Melissa McBride, Chad Coleman, Sonequa Martin-Green, and Michael Cudlitz.

After a screening of the season five finale, the packed house sat rapturous to the panel of actors, writers and producers who clearly have a fondness for each other and the show in general. In fact, there were times when it seemed like a virtual love in. One this was very evident and that’s everyone loves Andrew Lincoln. Not just the fans, but the entire cast and crew.

The light hearted evening saw discussions about the differences between the show and the comic book, memories, and favorite character moments interspersed with touching antidotes.

Chad Coleman, the lone cast member who’s character is on the show was spoken of fondly as was his final scene.

“It is inevitable that we’re all gonna get it at some point and the manner in which you deal with that is the mark of who you are.” Andrew Lincoln said. “When I saw Chad in that episode, it was extraordinary. He gave an acting performance that was like a master class… And of course we’re all gonna get it, but there’s this culture on the show, and I think it’s unique, that as long as it serves the story, none of us mind.”

Andrew went on to praise former cast members like Emily Kinney, who for me was the most tragic death of this past season but said if they killed him off, he would burn his trailer down.

As much as the show has gained popularity, one thing that has sadly eluded the series is Emmy nominations for the actors. I’m never one to get into who did a better job over other actors, but for my money Melissa McBride, deserves a nomination for this season hands down. Her performance was spectacular and jaw droopingly good this season.

Robert Kirkman said that there was a specific reason why they never say zombie in the series and it’s because they try to keep everything real on the show. Stripping the “world” from using the word zombie helps make things seem more realistic and less self referential.

After the screening there was a mild rush to the stage. Andrew Lincoln came over and signed for all of us on the end and was super nice.

Robert Kirkman was next and again was happy to sign and chat with everyone.

Melissa McBride came over and as I started to babble about how much I love her on the show she said, “I know you!” I was like what? She said, “You’re the autograph guy!” I was like noooo…

She said, “You have a website, what’s your website?”
I said, “mikethefanboy.com!”
She replied, “Yes! You were here last year and we got a funny photo!”

You could have bowled me over with a feather. Seriously, that made my week.

Last year, Melissa McBride and I had a bit of a photo flop and that’s what she was talking about. She also said you’re site is about going to events and meeting people right? If nothing else happened this night, just Melissa mentioning that was the highlight of my week. Seriously.

She is so adorable! So of course we had to get another funny photo. Adorbs!

Plus, Melissa also signed a Pop Vinyl for me as well.

The rest of the cast made their way down including Danai Gurira, Scott Gimple, Sonequa Martin-Green, and Michael Cudlitz.

Andrew Lincoln came back our way and finished the poster I started last year in gold.

Norman Reedus was on the other side and we ran around to get him as well. Norman was stopping to do selfies and sign for people, being the awesome guy that he is as well.

It was a wonderful night and I’m so thankful I was able to attend again!

Plus, how awesome is Melissa McBride? Right? RIGHT!

Until next time kids…