New York Comic Con 2014: 'The Walking Dead' Cast, Producers Talk 'Real Messed Up' Fifth Season Premiere

The fifth season premiere of "The Walking Dead" has been regarded as the most action packed premiere yet, according to Chris Hardwick, who moderated the New York Comic Con panel about the AMC drama with the show's producers and cast.

After premiering the first minutes of the season premiere to the thousands in attendance, "It's real messed up," said Hardwick.

For Executive Producer Greg Nicotero, who filmed previous season premieres, filming of the latest season occurred directly after the events of Season 4. "The momentum just blast us off right away," said Nicotero. He commended the writers, notably Scott Gimple, for the season premiere's script. Nicotero added, "Every emotion you feel in the last four years, you will feel in this episode."

According to Gimple, the fifth season will look at the "recent past" and "play with time," especially with characters that may be viewed as "black and white." He added the season will showcase "why they (the characters) are the way they are." Gimple also said some of the episodes will be "devastating" and joked he was worried for Hardwick as he transitions viewers for the "Talking Dead" aftershow.

Fellow Executive Producer Robert Kirkman admitted he loves the twist and turns happening this season. He also noted "big moments" from "The Walking Dead" comic books will be played in the show, and it will follow the comic books more than in the past.

"When I directed episode nine last year ... that was probably the closest adaption to the graphic novel at that time," said Nicotero.

Hardwick asked Executive Producer Gail Ann Hurd to describe the fifth season. Hurd responded, "Kick ass. Utterly relentless and totally heartbreaking." Hurd also announced the second half of the fifth season will premiere on Feb. 8, 2015, in the U.S.

Cast members were then introduced and spoke about their character's development from season four into season five.

"I think I love playing him this season," said Andrew Lincoln. "He's been the complete package...he's incredibly driven and brutal, and its been such fun ... I killed so many people."

Steven Yeun said, "It's interesting to see where every character lies on the spectrum," and acknowledged his character Glenn Rhee has been validated with hope despite losing his loved ones. "Everything was validated so from this point forward 'we can strive for hope, we can strive for humanity.'"

Lauren Cohan commented on her character Maggie Greene and the relationship with Rhee. Cohan said the latest episodes have shown the importance for the group to find an "actionable task" such as finding another person.

According to Michael Cudlitz, who originally portrayed Abraham Ford on a reoccurring basis, said, "The whole experience has been fantastic ... I feel like at times I've been here from the beginning." Cudlitz said he's been a fan of "The Walking Dead" before starring on the show and "thrilled of the reception he's received." Cudlitz said his character is focused on saving the world.

On portraying Michonne, Danai Gurira said, "It felt wonderful, it felt great," to have her character open up in recent episodes. Gurira said she's considers herself as a "strong chick" but she isn't on the same level as Michonne.

"Michonne has a really unapologetic strength to her...she has evolved and opened up ... but she was scared to do it ... she hasn't mellowed but just transitioned," said Gurira.

Melissa McBride, as Carol Peletier, was emotionally describing how proud she is of the show, her character and the cast. Peletier also expressed gratitude for the show's fans, stating, "It's amazing being able to work with the cast and feel vulnerable to the fans."

Referring to the role of Tyreese, Chad Coleman said, "It's an unforgiving, unrelenting world. It's a tough job, someone's got to do it," noting that community matters to Tyreese, which is why he cares for the women and children of the show. "Tyreese is still on shaky ground, trying to find his footing."

Sonequa Martin-Green commented on her real-life pregnancy and how it has affected her time on the show. "You just see the value of life," said Martin Green. "It really makes you tune in on the lessons provided on the show including survival, hope and family ... these are pillars you want to teach your children."

Norman Reedus was the final cast member on the panel. Hardwick asked what type of character does Reedus prefer for character Daryl Dixon, who was shown to have strong characteristics in early season but transitioned to show emotion. Reedus said there was always a sensitive side to Dixon, as evident when he'll cry even after killing something for survival.

Reedus said the new season is comparable to "Evel" Knievel's daredevil rides, noting it will go off the ramp, over the bus and through flames. "That's kind of where all of us are," added Reedus.

The fifth season of "The Walking Dead" premieres Sunday, Oct. 12, on AMC at 9 p.m. EST.

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