Zombies got their chance to finally descend on the streets of Manhattan on Friday as the cast, creators, and fans of The Walking Dead got a chance to watch the premiere of The Walking Dead season six. The event just showcases how big the show has gotten, filling the arena and providing fans with plenty of sights to get them through until the season officially begins on Sunday. Variety caught up with producer Gale Ann Hurd and highlighted some of the bits that greeted the hordes as they walked through the doors:
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In the lobby areas, fans were greeted with rolling behind-the-scenes clips, a life-size Daryl Dixon with his motorcycle, a replica of The Governor’s human head aquarium and best of all, walkers milling about the crowd scaring unsuspecting fans. Those brave enough stopped to take selfies with the “creatures.” Several fans dressed up as zombies, favorite characters and their own interpretations of horror.
“I think it’s the biggest (fan event) any television show has ever had. If not, it certainly comes close,” said executive producer Gale Ann Hurd. In reflecting on how far the show has come, Hurd said, “I think the first thing that my mind goes back to was what an amazing thing it was for AMC to say yes to this show. AMC and Fox International channels teamed together and greenlit not a pilot, but the first six episodes and that’s a big roll of the dice.”
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Fox News notes that the red carpet for the event was relocated inside due to weather concerns, but that didn’t stop people from lining up and posing for photos with numerous walkers making their way around the arena and scaring guests:
The event, which awarded fans with tickets via giveaways and sweepstakes, screened the season premiere and then held a panel with 18 cast members.
“It’s a giant arena with 18,000 seats and Led Zeppelin’s played here, I think Muhammad Ali fought here, so it’s really a special venue,” actor Austin Nichols said. “I’m honored to be here.”
Fan interaction was at a maximum and for once, the cast didn’t look like they just wandered in from a mud pit. Everybody was cleaned up and we even got to catch up with some of the dearly departed (Michael Rooker, Scott Wilson, and Emily Kinney were all in attendance).
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The highlight, as it should be, was Norman Reedus riding a motorcycle into the event. Still clad in a full tux, he comes buzzing in and later poses to take selfies with the rest of the cast and pals around with his departed TV bro, Michael Rooker.
Josh McDermitt and Michael Cudlitz also showed a little brotherly love during the event, even nearly kissing during their photos on the red carpet.
And if that’s not enough, you can even tour the lobby with this sweet looking 360 image from the event:
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The premiere of The Walking Dead hits on Sunday night and there’s no way there’s ever been a lead in quite like this one. Will it be able to top the success of its spin-off’s first season?
(Via Variety / Fox News)
