The apocalypse is no stranger to Norman Reedus, having survived years of it in The Walking Dead. Now, in AMC’s spinoff series, “The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon,” he returns, but this time in a foreign landscape – France. Amidst the backdrop of a zombie-infested Paris, new faces emerge including Clémence Poésy, Louis Puech Scigliuzzi, Laïka Blanc-Francard, and Adam Nagaitis, to name a few. Recent episodes introduced us to Romain Levi as the menacing Stéphane Codron and Lukerya Ilyashenko portraying the talented Russian singer Anna Valery.
Both Levi and Ilyashenko, during their chat with Christina Radish, shared their experience of working with Reedus. Levi, depicting the fierce adversary Codron, got off to a rather combative start with Reedus. “It was a big fight with Daryl,” he recalled. The power dynamics shifted quickly off-screen as Reedus took extra care, always checking on Levi’s well-being during their intense fight scenes. The villainous Codron, believing Daryl caused his brother’s death, set the tone for their tumultuous relationship.
Similarly, Ilyashenko’s experience was nothing short of exhilarating. As Anna Valery, she had the daunting task of singing in French. Her anxiety was palpable, particularly around meeting the Hollywood star, Reedus. However, her nervousness melted away when Reedus approached her with a warmth and kindness that put her immediately at ease. His simple gesture, a mere conversation and offering coffee, changed her entire perception. “He’s the most humane human,” she remarked, emphasizing the genuine and supportive environment Reedus cultivates on set.
Building Bonds On and Off Screen
The crux of “The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon” lies in Daryl’s journey of forging connections in an unfamiliar territory. From the resilient Isabelle played by Poésy to the deeper, almost familial bond with Scigliuzzi’s character Laurent, Daryl’s evolving relationships are at the series’ heart. Reedus, not just as Daryl but also as an 11-year veteran of The Walking Dead, was instrumental in fostering a spirit of camaraderie and excellence on set. Whether it was being actively involved in the script or merely ensuring his co-stars were comfortable, Reedus ensured that the show’s standards remained impeccable.
Ilyashenko spoke of the immense support she received from Reedus. His actions and kindness made her transition smooth, transforming her initial fear into a sense of confidence. “Instead of fear, I got the feeling of confidence and the realization that I was working in a safe place with great people,” she said.
In Conclusion
“The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon” on AMC brings a fresh perspective to a beloved universe, transporting characters to new settings with complex dynamics. Yet, it’s not just the plot that captures the viewers; it’s the relationships both on and off the screen. The series, while still in its nascent stages, showcases the undying spirit of humanity, perfectly embodied by Norman Reedus. Whether it’s in the brutal apocalyptic landscapes or the behind-the-scenes camaraderie, Reedus’s role is pivotal, proving once again his indomitable presence in the world of The Walking Dead. Don’t miss out, catch the series now on AMC and AMC+.
