Steven Yeun Discusses His Frustrations with Portraying Glenn in ‘The Walking Dead’
Steven Yeun, from the acclaimed zombie apocalypse television series The Walking Dead, recently opened up about his feelings towards Glenn – a beloved character that was integral in exploring love and morality amidst an apocalyptic backdrop. Having aired for 12 years, the show has since become immensely popular with many spin-offs already planned – though sadly one of its original characters will not be joining them.
At the core of The Walking Dead, Glenn had to die. Yeun admitted in an interview with The Wall Street Journal that while he was proud to be part of this character’s journey, there were aspects which left him feeling powerless and unfulfilled. Read his quote below:
“I felt like I was servicing a concept of goodness as opposed to engaging with Glenn’s humanity.”
Why Glenn Mattered To The Walking Dead
Andrew Lincoln‘s character Rick Grimes is fortunate to have a devoted companion in Glenn, whose light and humor are fundamental elements of the show. However, this same trait that adds so much life to The Walking Dead storyline was also what made Yeun weary of his role as the hero who can never make mistakes. Despite being exhausted from playing an infallible figure onscreen every single scene, he still managed to bring a glimmering optimism into each one of them.
Glenn’s horrific demise symbolizes a shocking shift in the show, and it wouldn’t have been possible without his compassionate nature. The death of him at Negan’s (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) hands destroys what little remains of hope within The Walking Dead universe.
Rick, Daryl (Norman Reedus), and Maggie (Lauren Cohan) were profoundly affected by the passing of Glenn. His death was particularly tragic due to his essential role in the early seasons of The Walking Dead; it is no surprise that Yuen would be dissatisfied with such a loss happening to her beloved character. Regardless, we mourn this painful legacy left behind by an exceptionally important individual who went too soon.
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