582

2017

The Walking Dead

Morgan Jones is a complex and pivotal character in AMC's The Walking Dead. He is introduced in the series premiere as the first survivor Rick Grimes encounters after waking from his coma. Initially, Morgan is a grieving father, traumatized by the loss of his wife and struggling to protect his son, Duane. He teaches Rick about the walkers and the new world order before their paths diverge.

Morgan reappears in later seasons, exhibiting a drastically different, almost zen-like philosophy. This transformation stems from his encounter with Eastman, a pacifistic cheesemaker, who taught him Aikido and the value of all life. Morgan embraces a "All life is precious" mantra, striving to avoid killing even walkers. This philosophy is constantly tested and challenged throughout the series, leading to inner turmoil and periods of mental instability.

He struggles with the practicality of pacifism in a brutal world, often relapsing into fits of rage and violence. Throughout his arc, Morgan grapples with PTSD and the conflicting ideologies of survival and morality. His journey is marked by profound loss, philosophical shifts, and ultimately, a search for peace and self-acceptance.