When long running zombie comic book series The Walking Dead was optioned for a television series I doubt anyone expected it to be good, much less one of the best new shows of the season, breaking ratings records for AMC rotting hand over fist.
Truly the series, co-created and written by Robert Kirkman, has become something of a phenomenon. The comic, a black and white series that features very human characters with no capes, spandex or super powers in sight, enjoys a steady and growing fan base and is well on it’s way to becoming the first black and white zombie comic book to reach it’s 100th issue. The show has enjoyed the same success and there are high expectations for the upcoming toylines.
But how does a show that set the standard for zombie storytelling in both comics and television follow it up? In a word: Celebrities.
Horror television programs have a long history of being able to get famous actors and other celebrities involved. From The Twilight Show to Tales From The Crypt, the big names have long been willing to dip into the blood filled pool of televised horror. Why? Well, my guess is it’s their one chance to do something they normally wouldn’t have a chance to do.
Heck, for the third season of HBO’s Tales From The Crypt, Michael J. Fox made his directorial debut with ‘The Trap’ which starred Teri Garr while the the previous season’s ‘The Switch’ saw Arnold Schwarzenegger direct late legend William Hickey in a tale of love gone wrong.
So, it doesn’t surprise me that there is already a lot of rumors going around about which famous face lifts might be reversed to make them zombie-appropriate for The Walking Dead’s second season.
Rumors have gone around that Charlie Sheen would like to play something that’s as dead as his career but that’s already been double-tapped.
However, one name that is one of the biggest in the comics industry has been tossed around a lot. According to Kirkman: “There are a few people who have asked me, and there may be some fun cameos for comics fans popping up in the second season. I don’t want to call these people out – it might annoy them. Honestly, Stan Lee asked to be a zombie on the show – that’s possible.”
Yes, Stan “The Man” Lee could be on season two giving comics fans a chance to see a Marvel Zombie on screen.
Tags: AMC, Robert Kirkman, Stan Lee, The Walking Dead
About the Author
Written by Skott Jimenez
I've been collecting comic books for over 20 years, over that time I've learned a lot about the history of the industry and that fascinates me so I'm always looking for new sources of information. If it's about comic books then I'm interested.
I have my Best friend who I think would love to be a Zombie on this show.
I think it’s a little sad that NOW everyone wants to jump on the wagon…I mean, show some support ahead of time, right?