The Walking Dead
COMICS CHARACTER GUIDE

The Walking Dead

The Walking Dead is a landmark independent horror comic series created by writer Robert Kirkman and artist Tony Moore, first published by Image Comics in October 2003. Set in a world devastated by a zombie apocalypse, the story follows Rick Grimes and a changing group of survivors as they confront the dangers of the undead and the often greater threats posed by other people. Running for 193 issues between 2003 and 2019, the series became one of the most successful independent comics of the modern era. It is particularly collectible for its early printings, major character debuts, shocking deaths and significant storyline developments. The Walking Dead also inspired a hugely successful television franchise, bringing the comic to an international audience.

5 items in stock9 key issues
CHARACTER PROFILE

The story of The Walking Dead

The story begins when Kentucky sheriff's deputy Rick Grimes awakens from a coma in a deserted hospital to discover that civilisation has collapsed following a zombie outbreak. Searching for his wife Lori and son Carl, Rick travels to Atlanta, where he encounters a small group of survivors.As the series progresses, Rick becomes a central leader in the struggle to build a functioning community. The survivors face hostile groups, devastating losses and difficult moral decisions, exploring themes of leadership, family, survival and the rebuilding of society.

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Collect The Walking Dead

Live stock ranked by collector relevance: matching key issues first, then character comics and collected editions.

5 live items
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COLLECTOR ESSENTIALS

Key The Walking Dead comics

Important milestones first, with live shop copies connected directly to the collector guide when available.

KEY ISSUE

The Walking Dead #1 (2003)

Major key — First appearance of Rick Grimes, Shane Walsh and Morgan Jones. First issue of the series. Written by Robert Kirkman with artwork by Tony Moore.

KEY ISSUE

The Walking Dead #2 (2003)

Key issue — First appearance of Glenn, an important member of the original survivor group.

KEY ISSUE

The Walking Dead #3 (2003)

Key issue — First appearances of Lori Grimes, Carl Grimes and Andrea.

KEY ISSUE

The Walking Dead #19 (2005)

Major key — First appearance of Michonne, one of the series' most popular characters.

KEY ISSUE

The Walking Dead #27 (2006)

Major key — First appearance of the Governor, a major early antagonist.

KEY ISSUE

The Walking Dead #53 (2008)

Key issue — First appearance of Abraham Ford, Rosita Espinosa and Eugene Porter.